2024 Audi S8 Problems: 5 Known Issues

How to Fix

Check first: have the level-control module (address 34) scanned with a VAG-capable tool, because a generic OBD2 scan misses these chassis codes. Audi lists codes for a system leak, compressor over-temperature and the level-control valves, which point to where to look. Then do a leak test: with the system pressurized, spray soapy water on each strut bellows, the upper mount area, the valve-block fittings and the nylon air lines. If one corner drops overnight, suspect a cracked strut bladder or a leaking valve-block solenoid. If the compressor runs for a long time and the car does not rise, the compressor is failing or a leak is too large for it. A slow strut leak will wear out the compressor, so find the leak before fitting a new compressor. Bulletin: Audi TSB 43 13 14 (2018765/8, "Self-leveling compressor inoperative") covers the 2011-2013 A8 (D4) with air suspension. The S8 is built on the D4 platform but is not listed by name. The technician tests the compressor on direct current and opens compressor relay J403. If the relay contacts are badly eroded or the strand is overheated, Audi says to replace both the compressor and the relay, even if the compressor sounds normal. If the contacts show only minor marks and the compressor sounds normal, replace only the relay. Coverage: no recall or warranty extension was found. Audi's bulletin says it is informational only once the car is out of warranty. Repair: replace the leaking strut. Aftermarket units cost less than new Audi struts. For example, the remanufactured Arnott AS-2865 front strut is listed for the 2013-2018 S8, but only for cars with sport suspension, so check fitment first. As a guide, a parts retailer's repair guide quotes $300-$600 per OEM strut plus $150-$300 labor per corner, $400-$900 for a compressor plus 1-2 hours of labor, and $3,500-$6,000 or more for a full system at a dealer on an A8 or Q7. An S8 buyer's guide puts a strut replacement at $1,000-$2,000 and a compressor at over $1,500, with dealers charging more.

How to Fix

Read the suspension-controller DTC and symptom code, then inspect wiring, terminals and connectors between J775 and J1135 exactly as Audi specifies. If the fault is passive/sporadic, clear it and verify operation. If it remains active/static after the electrical inspection and key cycle, follow Audi testing for J1135 replacement. Diagnose vehicle sag or leak-down separately; these fault codes alone do not call for air struts, a compressor or a coil-conversion kit.

Owner tips & cautions

• TipAsk the technician to record the full suspension DTC and symptom code and whether it is passive/sporadic or active/static before any part is approved.

How to Fix

1) Read the transmission fault memory first. If a 2013 S8 has P074100 stored and a warning light that clears after a restart, ask an Audi dealer about TSB 2028985/10. The fix is a TCM software update, then clearing adaptations and doing a standstill adaptation. It only applies if the ATF level is correct and there are no leaks. Outside any warranty, Audi treats this bulletin as informational only, so the owner pays. 2) If shifts feel rough on a 2013 S8 4.0 TFSI in VIN range 004908-013096, ask the dealer whether Update 37H1 (ECM and TCM software) is open for your VIN in ElsaWeb. Audi paid for 37H1 only when it showed as open for the VIN and the car was within the Federal Emissions Warranty. Otherwise the owner can choose to pay for it. 3) Check the ATF level and condition and look for leaks. For shudder, the first and cheapest step is a fluid change with the specified ATF, plus the filter where it can be serviced. 4) Only if shudder continues after the software, adaptation and fluid steps should a shop confirm converter-clutch slip and quote a new converter. That job means removing the transmission, so labor costs are high. Get a written diagnosis before you agree to replace the converter or valve body.

How to Fix

Check the VIN in Audi’s recall/service-campaign lookup and schedule the free 90TV software remedy if open. Use extra care when reversing until repaired and visually check the area around the vehicle. A completely dead or rebooting MMI display, missing instrument-cluster data, wiring fault or hardware failure requires separate diagnosis and must not be attributed to this recall without VIN and symptom confirmation.

Owner tips & cautions

• WarningUntil repaired, do not rely on the camera image alone when reversing; check surroundings directly and verify 90TV eligibility by VIN.

How to Fix

Document oil-level warnings, mileage, top-up quantity, leaks and oil specification, then have an Audi dealer perform the authorized oil-consumption measurement. Repair is justified only when the measured result exceeds the applicable owner-manual limit and other leakage or operating causes are excluded. If TSB 2071114 applies, follow its VIN/engine-specific piston, ring and connecting-rod procedure. Do not change oil viscosity or authorize internal-engine work without the measured result.