Audi S8 (2001–2024) Fault Codes & Service Schedule | TroubleAtlas

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Audi S8 (2001–2024)
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AUDI S8 (2001–2024): Technical Data, DTC & Service Schedule

Built 2001–2024 · all production years covered on this single page

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 • Gasoline

Audi S8 (2001–2024)

© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA

5 Common problems View details →
29 OBD2 codes View details →
16 Recalls / TSB View details →
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Audi S8 (2001–2024) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliability
n/a
Safety & recalls
n/a
Repair cost
6.2
Parts & repairability
3.7
Maintenance & durability
n/a
Documentation & support
8.9
★ How we calculate this → Methodology
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA6.3/10
Independent · Verified · Never for sale

Every figure on this Audi S8 (2001–2024) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.

The Audi S8 (2001–2024) uses Castrol Edge 0W-20 engine oil. It is powered by a 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.

⚠️ COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT

Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.

Related codes: P0217

Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT

ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.

Related codes: P0522

Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT

Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.

Related codes: P0524

Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT

Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.

Related codes: P0606

Throttle actuatorFREQUENT

Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.

Related codes: P2100

🔧 COMMON REPAIRS
🔧
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.1h
€77 – €99
🔧
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.2h
€84 – €108
🛢
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.4h
€28 – €36
🔧
ABS Module
Difficulty: Hard
2.7h
€189 – €243
💰 AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS

Prices may vary by area and workshop.

🔧
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
🛑
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
⚡
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
📊
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
⏱️ OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)

Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.

Brakes8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
ABS Module2.7h€ 121–€ 202
ABS Pump3.4h€ 153–€ 255
ABS Tone Ring2.0h€ 90–€ 150
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front1.1h€ 49–€ 82
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear1.1h€ 49–€ 82
Brake Bleed - All Four1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Brake Booster3.4h€ 153–€ 255
Brake Booster Check Valve0.4h€ 18–€ 30
Cooling8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Coolant Bypass Pipe2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Coolant Flush1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Coolant Reservoir0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Coolant Temperature Sensor0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Cooling Fan Assembly1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Cooling Fan Clutch1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Cooling Fan Motor2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Cooling Fan Relay0.4h€ 18–€ 30
Electrical8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Airbag - Driver1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Airbag - Passenger2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Airbag - Side2.7h€ 121–€ 202
Airbag Module/Computer1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Alternator2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Alternator Belt0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Amplifier2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Antenna0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Engine8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Boost Pressure Sensor0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Camshaft Position Sensor1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Camshaft R&R10.8h€ 486–€ 810
Connecting Rod Bearings20.2h€ 909–€ 1515
Crankshaft Position Sensor1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Crankshaft R&R27.0h€ 1215–€ 2025
Cylinder Head R&R8.1h€ 364–€ 607
Cylinder Head Resurface10.8h€ 486–€ 810
Exhaust8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Injection Check Valve1.1h€ 49–€ 82
Catalytic Converter - California2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Catalytic Converter - Universal2.7h€ 121–€ 202
Downpipe2.7h€ 121–€ 202
EGR Cooler4.1h€ 184–€ 307
EGR Tube2.0h€ 90–€ 150
EGR Valve1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Fuel system8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Charcoal Canister1.4h€ 62–€ 105
EVAP Purge Valve1.1h€ 49–€ 82
EVAP Vent Valve1.1h€ 49–€ 82
Fuel Cap0.1h€ 4–€ 7
Fuel Filler Neck2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Fuel Filter0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Fuel Filter - In-Tank2.7h€ 121–€ 202
Fuel Injector - Single1.4h€ 62–€ 105
HVAC8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
AC Accumulator2.0h€ 90–€ 150
AC Clutch Coil2.0h€ 90–€ 150
AC Compressor3.4h€ 153–€ 255
AC Compressor Clutch2.7h€ 121–€ 202
AC Compressor Oil Add0.7h€ 31–€ 52
AC Condenser3.4h€ 153–€ 255
AC Evaporator8.1h€ 364–€ 607
AC Expansion Valve (TXV)5.4h€ 243–€ 405
Steering8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Center Link/Drag Link2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Electric Power Steering Module2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Electric Power Steering Motor3.4h€ 153–€ 255
Idler Arm1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Pitman Arm1.6h€ 72–€ 120
Power Steering Fluid Flush0.7h€ 31–€ 52
Power Steering Gear Box4.7h€ 211–€ 352
Power Steering Hose - High Pressure1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Suspension8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Line1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Air Spring/Air Bag2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Air Suspension Compressor2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Air Suspension Height Sensor1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Air Suspension Valve Block2.7h€ 121–€ 202
Ball Joint - Lower2.4h€ 108–€ 180
Ball Joint - Upper2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Ball Joints - Upper and Lower4.1h€ 184–€ 307
Transmission8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Kickdown Cable1.1h€ 49–€ 82
Neutral Safety Switch1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Overdrive Solenoid2.7h€ 121–€ 202
Shift Cable2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Shift Linkage1.4h€ 62–€ 105
Shift Solenoid - Single6.5h€ 292–€ 487
Shift Solenoids - All14.0h€ 630–€ 1050
Torque Converter10.8h€ 486–€ 810
💵 WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY

Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.

🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
Engine oil
Engine oil
Castrol Edge 0W-20
With filter change
6.5 L
Coolant
Coolant
Audi G13 Coolant (Purple)
Use pre-mixed or mix 50/50 with distilled water
13.0 L
Brake fluid
Brake fluid
DOT 4 ESP Brake Fluid
Replace when moisture content exceeds 3% or every 2-3 years
Automatic transmission fluid
Audi DSG / S-Tronic Fluid
10.0 L
Power steering fluid
Electric Power Steering (No Fluid)
Electric power steering - no fluid required
Transfer case fluid
Audi Transfer Case Fluid
2.5 L
Washer fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid
Refill as needed. Use winter-rated in cold climates.
3.5 L
Front Diff
Audi Differential Fluid
1.5 L
📋 RECALLS & TSB (16)
NHTSA 25V201000
Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel
Date: 31/03/2025
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 SQ8, A6 SEDAN, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S6 SEDAN, S7, S8, A6 Allroad, and SQ7 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail.
NHTSA 19V057000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 28/01/2019
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.
NHTSA 22V806000
Equipment › Electrical › Infotainment › Video (Touch)Screen/Monitor/Unit
Date: 26/10/2022
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7…
NHTSA 21V295000
Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-Powered Axle Assembly
Date: 26/04/2021
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2…
NHTSA 22V034000
Tires
Date: 26/01/2022
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 20…
NHTSA 18V430000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 25/06/2018
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.
NHTSA 21V111000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Engine Control Module (Ecu/Ecm)
Date: 24/02/2021
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A8 and 2020-2021 Audi S8 vehicles. A missing sealing pin may allow moisture to enter the engine control module connector, possibly causing a control module malfunction.
NHTSA 13V448000
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Date: 23/09/2013
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…
NHTSA 22V178000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Turbo/Supercharger
Date: 23/03/2022
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.
NHTSA 21V825000
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
Date: 20/10/2021
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8 and S8, 2022 Audi A5 Sportback, A4 Sedan, E-Tron GT, Q3, Q5, RS6 Avant, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RSQ8, SQ7, SQ8, and S3 Sedan vehicles. A software error may prevent the rear-view imag…
NHTSA 25V900000
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
Date: 19/12/2025
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2026 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requi…
NHTSA 23V084000
Air Bags › Frontal
Date: 15/02/2023
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S8 and A8 vehicles. During air bag assembly, the front-passenger occupant protection flap of the air bag may not have been folded correctly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of F…
NHTSA 16V415000
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Date: 09/06/2016
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles. The sunroof glass on the affected vehicles may not be properly secured to the sunroof frame. As a result, the sunroof glass may detach from the car while driving.
NHTSA 20V397000
Structure › Body › Hood
Date: 07/07/2020
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.
NHTSA 22V742000
Back Over Prevention › Display Function
Date: 05/10/2022
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabri…
NHTSA 21V606000
Seat Belts › Rear/Other › Retractor
Date: 05/08/2021
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe…
🔴 DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE

53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.

Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
!BRAKE
Brake System WarningBrakes
K
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
+−
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
!BRAKE
ABS WarningBrakes
!BRAKE
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
!BRAKE
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
!
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
S
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
N
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
!
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
?
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
L
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
L
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
AC
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
A
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
L
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
A
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
A
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
A
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
A
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
!
Door Open WarningBody
!
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
📢 REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)

45 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Audi S8 across model years 2001–2024. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.

1 fire
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 201313
Model year 20146
Model year 20156
Model year 20166
Model year 20085
Model year 20033
Model year 20073
Model year 20092
Most reported components (all years)
Engine16
Visibility6
Engine And Engine Cooling4
Power Train4
Unknown Or Other4
Visibility/Wiper3
Sample reports
When started up on 11/17/22, multiple warning lights came on in rapid sequence advising of an electrical system & battery malfunction. Warning was to not drive the vehicle and contact service. I shut off the vehicle and re-started it. Th… (MY 2021)
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 AUDI S8. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, A SUDDEN BOOMING SOUND WAS HEARD. THROUGH THE REARVIEW MIRROR, THE DRIVER COULD SEE THAT THE GLASS SUN ROOF WAS AIRBORNE. AFTER STOPPING TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE, THE… (MY 2008)
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 AUDI S8. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, A BOOMING SOUND WAS HEARD AND THE DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE GLASS SUN ROOF DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND WAS AIRBORNE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. AU… (MY 2008)
There is a possibility that the sunroof glass may detach from the vehicle's frame, posing a road hazard and increasing the risk of an accident. (MY 2008)

Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2001–2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Audi S8 have any safety recalls?

Yes — 16 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.

What does fault code P0003 mean on the Audi S8?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0002 mean on the Audi S8?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0001 mean on the Audi S8?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

Are steering problems common on the Audi S8?

Yes — 8 of 44 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the steering. One owner reported: “Engine turbocharger experience catastrophic damage, engine stalled, power steering was disrupted.…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are electrical problems common on the Audi S8?

Yes — 8 of 44 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “The car was running rough for a couple weeks; hesitant to accelerate, failed to start multiple times and idled rough. One day I was coming home from my hour long commute, I put the car in reverse in m…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are engine problems common on the Audi S8?

Yes — 16 of 44 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “2009 AUDI S8 THROTTLE STUCK WIDE OPEN WHILE ACCELERATING ONTO HIGHWAY. FULL BREAKING DID NOT DISCONNECT THROTTLE. BRAKED HARD AND PULLED TO SIDE OF ROAD AND SHUT DOWN ENGINE. HAD TOWED INTO MIRAMAR …” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

What tyres does the Audi S8 (2001–2024) use?

The original OEM tyre size for the Audi S8 (2001–2024) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["245/45R19", "235/50R19", "265/40R20"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.

What engine oil should I use on the Audi S8 (2001–2024)?

The engine oil specification for the Audi S8 (2001–2024) is Castrol Edge 0W-20. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.

Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Audi S8 (2001–2024)?

Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.

How often should the Audi S8 (2001–2024) be serviced?

Routine maintenance for the Audi S8 (2001–2024) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.

Considering buying a Audi S8 (2001–2024)? Use this guide to check expected maintenance costs, the most reported fault codes and parts availability on the market. Real data, zero commercial estimates.

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