The Audi S4, renowned for its blend of power and luxury, is a car that has made its mark in the automobile industry. Although the model has garnered a significant customer base, it has not been entirely free from criticism. This article takes you through the common problems encountered by Audi S4 owners and offers insights into possible modifications.
The Audi S4: An Overview
The Audi S4 emerged as a performance-oriented version of the company’s compact A4. The model’s initial introduction dates back to 1991, and it has since evolved through several generations, each with its unique set of strengths and weaknesses.
The S4 is powered by a three-liter V6 turbocharged engine, producing around 350 brake horsepower. Though criticized for its quiet engine compared to its previous V8 versions, the S4 has managed to hold its ground in terms of performance and adaptability.
Common Issues with the Audi S4
Even with its impressive performance and luxury features, the S4 has been subject to a range of common problems reported by owners.
Engine Related Issues
One of the most recurrent issues has been the quiet engine, which, although a conscious design choice, has been a point of contention for many owners. However, this is more of a personal preference issue and can be easily rectified through modifications for a louder engine sound.
Another problem is oil consumption. With modern cars designed to work with thinner oils, owners have reported having to top up oil between scheduled servicing. Although not essentially a problem, it’s an aspect to be mindful of when purchasing an Audi S4.
Suspension and Transmission Concerns
The Audi S4, like its A4 and RS4 counterparts, uses a multi-link suspension system on the front and rear of the vehicle. This design, while enhancing comfort and handling, leads to frequent wear and tear of suspension arms, bushes, and ball joints.
Another commonly reported issue is with the S4’s gear lever. In some instances, the lever fails to shift gears, leading to significant inconvenience.
Miscellaneous Issues
Several S4 owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s rainwater management, with clogged drains causing the accumulation of water in the plenum tray. There have also been complaints about the fuel flap not opening in some cases.
Dealing with the Common Issues
While these issues might seem daunting, most of them are easily addressable with regular servicing and maintenance. For instance, engine-related problems like oil consumption and the quiet engine sound can be managed by regular oil checks and engine modifications, respectively.
Suspension issues can be resolved through regular inspections and timely replacements of worn-out parts. Similarly, gear lever issues can be sorted by replacing the faulty gear levers.
Prospects for Modifications
The Audi S4 is not merely about addressing issues; it’s also about enhancing performance through modifications.
Engine and Gearbox Remaps
One of the most common modifications for the S4 is remapping the engine and gearbox for increased power and torque. This modification ensures that the vehicle’s performance is optimized to its fullest potential.
Styling Kits
To give the S4 a more aggressive look akin to the RS4, various styling kits are available in the market. These kits offer an array of options to personalize the vehicle according to personal preferences.
Performance Upgrades
Performance upgrades, like the replacement of coil packs with high-performance alternatives and the installation of bigger intercoolers, can significantly enhance the S4’s performance.
The Verdict
Despite the common issues, the Audi S4 remains a sought-after vehicle due to its power and luxury. Regular servicing and maintenance can mitigate most of the problems, and the prospects for modifications make it an attractive option for performance enthusiasts.
The S4 stands as a testament to Audi’s commitment to blending performance with luxury, and with the right care and enhancements, it can be a truly enjoyable ride.
