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2011 Audi S4 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2011 Audi S4 Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2011 Audi S4 has a known critical recall for fuel leaks from the fuel rail. Confirm this has been addressed.
  • A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) points to numerous potential issues, suggesting complexity and possible future repairs.
  • Despite a lack of owner complaints in NHTSA data, the TSB count indicates underlying concerns that may not always be reported.
  • The supercharged 3.0L V6 engine requires premium fuel, contributing to higher running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Audi S4

The 2011 Audi S4 offers potent performance wrapped in a practical sedan package. Its supercharged V6 engine and standard all-wheel drive provide engaging dynamics. However, prospective buyers must approach this model with caution due to its reliability record. A significant recall for fuel leaks and an exceptionally high volume of TSBs indicate potential for ongoing ownership concerns and repair expenses. While it boasts strong safety ratings, the underlying mechanical complexities warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall (15V019000) addressed potential fuel leaks from the fuel injection system's fuel rail. This poses a fire hazard. While addressed by recall, the underlying cause of degradation or seal failure may warrant ongoing vigilance.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 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
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

3.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking strong performance and all-wheel-drive capability in a sedan format.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing low-maintenance ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Audi S4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Audi S4.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S7)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel Rail Leaks

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. High TSB Count

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 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 2011 Audi S4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Audi S4 is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Audi S4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Audi S4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Audi S4 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 3.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Audi S4?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Rail (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2011 Audi S4?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2011 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Audi S4, transmission is Automatic (S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2011 S4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Audi S4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Audi S4?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Audi S4, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Audi S4, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Audi S4?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Audi S4?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Audi S4?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

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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