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2025 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

  • Reliability is rated 'Below Average', primarily due to a high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggesting potential for unaddressed electronic or powertrain calibration issues.
  • No safety recalls or consumer complaints were logged, but the extensive TSBs (217) indicate numerous minor or potential issues.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG.
  • The Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides confident traction in various conditions.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2025 Audi S3

The 2025 Audi S3 aims to blend performance with everyday usability, but used car shoppers should approach with informed caution. This compact sport sedan utilizes a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an automatic transmission and Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive. While the EPA estimates a combined 26 MPG, the underlying reliability data suggests potential ownership challenges. The absence of recalls and complaints is offset by a high TSB count, indicating numerous manufacturer-acknowledged issues that may not have escalated to formal reporting.

Critical Failure Risk

The high TSB count suggests potential issues with the vehicle's complex electronic systems, including infotainment, driver assistance, and engine management. These can manifest as minor annoyances or more significant operational problems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
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
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a sharp-handling, all-wheel-drive sport sedan with premium amenities.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and minimal unscheduled repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2025 Audi S3 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2025 Audi S3.

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

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

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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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electronic System Glitches

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Powertrain Calibration 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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2025 Audi S3 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2025 Audi S3 is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2025 Audi S3 for daily use?▾

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

What is the overall score for the 2025 Audi S3?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2025 Audi S3 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2025 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: Electronic Control Module (ECM) Software (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $400).

What engine is in the 2025 Audi S3?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2025 Audi S3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Audi S3, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2025 S3 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2025 Audi S3?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2025 Audi S3?▾

15 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2025 Audi S3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Audi S3, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2025 Audi S3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Audi S3, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2025 Audi S3?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and 2025 Honda Civic Type R.

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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