What's Wrong with the 3rd Generation (2003–2005) S4?

S4 owners have made 6 complaints about the 2003–2005 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 26th out of 39 Audi generations in overall reliability, with real engine and interior concerns.

Compare With Other S4 Generations

Common 2003-2005 Audi S4 Problems

Some of the worst issues 3rd generation S4 owners have to deal with.

  1. Takata Recalls

    A large number of Audi vehicles have been recalled because they contain dangerous airbag inflators made by Takata. The shrapnel-hurling inflators have been recalled in over 37 million vehicles (and counting).

    Continue reading article "Takata Recalls" Test dummy getting hit by Takata airbag

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue Test dummy getting hit by Takata airbag

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

3rd Generation (2003–2005) S4 Key Numbers

  1. 3 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 6 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 26th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 39 eligible generations.