IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Audi R8 (Type 42)

The facelift was announced in 2012 for the following model year, adding S tronic and revised lighting. Confirm the build specification: an earlier R tronic car has a different clutch and transmission inspection checklist.

What changed for 2012

  • •Facelift announced for the 2013 model year
  • •Seven-speed S tronic replaces R tronic on facelift cars
  • •Updated lighting and V10 plus variant

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !MagneRide damper leaks remain common at this age
  • !Tyre wear on performance-driven examples
  • !Brake component costs on carbon-ceramic equipped cars
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Magnetic Ride Shock Absorber Leaks

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The adaptive MagneRide dampers frequently leak fluid and lose their damping ability. They usually need replacing in pairs at huge cost.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,000 (per pair)
Warning Signs:

Oil weeping from the shock absorber body, Harsh ride, Suspension warning light

What to Inspect:
  • Visually inspect all four dampers with a torch for fluid leaks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

R tronic Clutch Wear / Incorrect Adaptation

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Clutch wear or incorrect adaptation after replacement can cause judder on R tronic cars. A specialist should assess clutch condition and adaptation before condemning the gearbox.

Warning Signs:

Judder when moving away, Poor clutch engagement

What to Inspect:
  • Test cold and warm manoeuvring
  • Ask for clutch invoices and a specialist adaptation/condition report
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated
Official Recalls & Reference Documents:

4.2 FSI V8 Direct-Injection Intake Valve Carbon Buildup

ModerateEngine

Direct fuel injection means fuel never washes over the intake valves, leading to heavy carbon crusting in the ports, reduced top-end power, and lumpy idle.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Noticeable loss of high-rev acceleration, Rough idle on cold start, Engine misfire codes at full throttle

What to Inspect:
  • Ask if walnut-blasting carbon clean has been performed
  • Feel for flat spots when revving past 6,000 rpm
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Air Conditioning Compressor Shaft Spline Failure

ModerateCooling System

The rubber-buffered drive hub and splines on the air conditioning compressor can shear, causing complete loss of cabin air conditioning. On mid-engined R8s, replacement is labor-intensive.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,200–£2,500
Warning Signs:

No cold air from air conditioning, Rattling or whining from compressor area behind bulkhead, AC button remains off

What to Inspect:
  • Test air conditioning at lowest temperature setting
  • Check compressor engagement on diagnostic scan
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2012 Audi R8 (Type 42)

  • ✓Facelift cars with documented MagneRide history are the best used buys
  • ✓Check for evidence of proper garage storage and covered mileage
  • ✓V10 plus models hold value well but maintenance is very expensive
20112013–2015
Check a 2012 Audi R8 (Type 42) by Registration