A8 (D4)
Engine Reliability Ratings
3.0-V6-Gas
3.0L 6-cyl / 333 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Audi
4.2L 8-cyl / 372 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
4.0-V8-Gas
4.0L 8-cyl / 420 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 2 additional engine variants with limited data
Audi A8 Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.0-V6-Diesel
3.0L 6-cyl / 240 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Audi A8 regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (7)
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2013-2017 A8, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, and 2014-2017 RS7 vehicles. The turbocharger oil supply strainer can become blocked, causing wear to the bearings due to lack of lubrication.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S8 and A8 vehicles. The seal around the engine compartment may come loose and contact hot engine components.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles. The fuel supply line for the high pressure fuel pump may become porous and leak fuel.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Audi S8 and A8 vehicles. The fuel supply line for the high pressure fuel pump may become porous over time, resulting in a fuel leak.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Audi A8 vehicles manufactured May 15, 2010, to May 14, 2012. The affected vehicles have a coolant valve that may leak, allowing coolant to enter the engine control module causing a loss of power or the engine to stall.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles equipped with a standard sunroof, manufactured March 12, 2013, through July 15, 2013. These vehicles are equipped with a standard sunroof glass panel that may shatter.
All Generations
Alternatives in Full-Size Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2011-2018 Audi A8 problems?
The 2011-2018 Audi A8 has accumulated 170 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Brakes, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Audi A8 engine is most reliable?
The 2011-2018 Audi A8 was offered with 5 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.0L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2011-2018 Audi A8 a good used car?
The 2011-2018 Audi A8 can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 170 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2011-2018 Audi A8 have?
The 2011-2018 Audi A8 has 170 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2011-2018 Audi A8?
There are 7 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2011-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Audi A8?
Before buying a used Audi A8, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Brakes, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the A8 have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2011-2018 Audi A8. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 170 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.