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2023 Audi S3 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 Audi S3's public reliability is rated as Average, with a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicating potential for minor issues.
  • A single administrative recall concerning a label defect has been issued; confirm its completion.
  • Zero owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA, suggesting major failures are not yet widely reported.
  • The 2.0L turbocharged engine requires premium fuel and is paired with a 7-speed automatic and Quattro all-wheel drive.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Audi S3

The 2023 Audi S3 blends potent performance with premium appointments, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a sporty compact sedan. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive, it delivers confident handling and brisk acceleration. EPA estimates place combined fuel economy at 26 MPG. While the NHTSA has recorded one administrative recall for a labeling issue and zero owner complaints, the vehicle's high Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) count suggests a propensity for minor, non-critical issues that may affect the ownership experience. Buyers should prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

The 2023 Audi S3 has a notable number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), indicating potential for minor electronic glitches, software issues, or fit-and-finish concerns that may not rise to the level of a recall or customer complaint but can affect the ownership experience.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
23
MPG
Highway
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a blend of performance, all-weather capability, and premium interior features.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing absolute long-term mechanical simplicity and minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Audi S3 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Audi S3.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S7)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Most Common Issues

1. High TSB Count

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. DSG Transmission Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Audi S3 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Audi S3 is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Audi S3 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Audi S3?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Audi S3 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Audi S3?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: DSG Transmission (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2023 Audi S3?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2023 Audi S3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Audi S3, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2023 S3 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Audi S3?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Audi S3?▾

12 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2023 Audi S3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Audi S3, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Audi S3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Audi S3, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Audi S3?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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