What are the most common Audi S4 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2002-2002 Audi S4 has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: B5 S4 2.7T Timing Chain Guide Failure, B5 2.7T Turbocharger Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Audi S4 reliable?

The 2002-2002 Audi S4 has 2 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: B5 S4 2.7T Timing Chain Guide Failure and B5 2.7T Turbocharger Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Audi S4 problems?

Repair costs for known Audi S4 issues range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, B5 S4 2.7T Timing Chain Guide Failure, typically costs $3,000-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

2002 Audi S4 Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2002 Audi S4 Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

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On the 2000-2002 Audi S4 2.7T, the B5 Audi S4 with the 2.7T twin-turbo V6 has timing chain guides that deteriorate, causing chain rattle and eventual timing chain skip. The engine must be removed from the car to replace the chains and guides, making this a very expensive repair.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Enclave

Common Symptoms

Timing chain rattle on cold start
Rattle that fades after warmup
Check engine light
Rough running
Metal debris in oil

How to Fix

Confirm the failure by listening for chain rattle at the rear of the 2.7T heads during cold start, scanning for cam/crank correlation faults, and inspecting the oil/filter for plastic guide fragments or metal debris. The proper repair is engine removal followed by replacement of the cam chain tensioner/guide assemblies, timing chains, chain pads/guides, valve cover and cam seals, and often related timing belt service items while access is available. If the chain has already skipped, cylinder leakdown/compression testing is needed to check for valve damage before reassembly. This is a labor-intensive job that commonly runs about $3,500-$6,500 depending on parts replaced and whether internal engine damage is found.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeComplete timing chain kit includes chains, guides, and tensioners (Cloyes Timing Chain Kit)
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UpgradeHigh-quality engine oil is critical after timing service (Castrol Edge Full Synthetic Motor Oil)
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Typical repair cost:$3,000 - $6,000

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0+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2000-2002 Audi S4 2.7T, the B5 S4 2.7L twin-turbo V6 is notorious for turbo failure due to oil starvation from coked oil feed lines. Both KO3 turbos can fail, with the rear turbo being particularly difficult to access for replacement.

This issue also affects: Audi A3, Audi A6, Audi A8

Common Symptoms

Blue/white smoke
Loss of boost
Whining from turbo
Oil consumption increase
Check engine light

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeTurbo gasket kit prevents boost leaks and oil seepage at the turbo flanges (Dorman Turbocharger Gasket Kit)
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UpgradeBoost gauge helps monitor turbo performance and catch problems early (AutoMeter Mechanical Boost Gauge)
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Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $5,000

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0+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

2002 Audi S4 Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 2 Known Issues

2000-2002 Audi S4: B5 S4 2.7T Timing Chain Guide Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2000-2002 Audi S4: B5 2.7T Turbocharger Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Audi Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Audi S4 problems?

Is the Audi S4 reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Audi S4 problems?

What is the 2000-2002 Audi S4 B5 S4 2.7T Timing Chain Guide Failure?

What is the 2000-2002 Audi S4 B5 2.7T Turbocharger Failure?