Used Audi S4

What to know before buying: Audi S4

From 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The owner of a 2009 3.0 TFSI particularly praised the engine’s power and the seven-speed S-tronic.[1]one source
• The same 2009 car was praised for secure handling, while its adjustable dampers kept the ride reasonably comfortable.[1]one source
• The owner reported about 15 l/100 km in town and 13 l/100 km outside it, while acknowledging enthusiastic driving.[1]one source

Typical faults

• The 2005 S4 Cabriolet is reported to suffer timing-chain stretch, which can cause serious engine damage if not repaired promptly.[3]one source

  2005–2005

• Owners of the 2005 S4 Cabriolet have reported high oil consumption requiring more frequent level checks.[3]one source

  2005–2005

• The 2005 Cabriolet is reported to have slow or inoperative power windows and warning lamps that illuminate without cause.[3]one source

  2005–2005

• The 2005 S4 Cabriolet’s automatic transmission is reported to shift harshly or hesitate before changing gear.[3]one source

  2005–2005

• The 2005 Cabriolet is reported to suffer worn dampers and steering-component faults that impair ride and steering precision.[3]one source

  2005–2005

• The 2005 S4 Cabriolet’s roof may leak or develop mechanical faults that prevent it opening or closing.[3]one source

  2005–2005

• The reviewed 2009 supercharged 3.0 V6 had warped front brake discs after hard use by previous drivers, causing brake judder.[1]one source

  2009–2009 · 3.0 V6 supercharged

• A 1998 S4 Avant B5 no-start fault was traced to failed ignition modules near the air filter.[2]one source

  1998–1998

Which engine and version to take

• The strongest positive evidence concerns the 2009 3.0 TFSI with seven-speed S-tronic; its owner praised both engine and gearbox.[1]one source

What to check at the inspection

• For a 2005 Cabriolet, have a workshop assess the timing chain and establish whether it has already been repaired.[3]one source
• Check the oil level and service history, especially on a 2005 Cabriolet, for which high oil consumption has been reported.[3]one source
• On a 2005 automatic, test shifts in different driving conditions; harshness or delays warrant diagnosis.[3]one source
• On a Cabriolet, operate the roof through a full cycle and check for leaks, window faults and abnormal dashboard warnings.[3]one source
• During the test drive, assess the dampers and steering precision; a rough ride or loose steering needs investigation.[3]one source
• Brake firmly and check for steering-wheel or pedal vibration; one 2009 3.0 V6 example had warped front discs.[1]one source
• On a 1998 B5, test repeated starts and the ignition modules, whose failure caused a no-start on one reported car.[2]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]cars.cz — Auto recenze Audi S4 · press
2. [2]problemcar.nl — Audi S4 Forum · forum
3. [3]handyhand.dk — Kendte Problemer med Audi S4 Cabriolet 2005 · press

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