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2012 Audi S4 Report

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

Updated May 23, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2012 Audi S4 Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2012 Audi S4's below-average reliability is primarily linked to potential fuel leaks from the fuel rail.
  • A single recall addresses the fuel rail issue; verify its completion.
  • Despite zero owner complaints, a high TSB count (464) indicates numerous potential issues across various systems.
  • The S4 boasts strong safety scores, including 5 stars for side and rollover crash tests.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Audi S4

The 2012 Audi S4 offers a potent blend of performance and luxury, powered by a 3.0L supercharged V6 engine producing 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Its standard all-wheel drive and S tronic dual-clutch transmission deliver confident handling and rapid acceleration. While its safety ratings are strong, with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The high TSB count suggests a need for thorough inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addressed fuel rail leaks due to potential material defects. While the recall remedy should have been applied, vigilance for any fuel odors or persistent leaks is advised. This issue poses a fire risk.

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

Horsepower
333HP
Torque
325 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.7/ 10

Practicality

4.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a powerful, all-wheel-drive German sedan with strong performance credentials.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing absolute dependability and low running costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Audi S4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Audi S4.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
333 hp
Torque
325 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic (S7)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$47,300 - $48,700
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System Leaks

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Ignition Coil Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 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 2012 Audi S4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Audi S4 is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Audi S4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 352 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Audi S4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Audi S4 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 4.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Audi S4?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Rail (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2012 Audi S4?▾

MSRP range is $47,300 - $48,700.

What engine is in the 2012 Audi S4?▾

Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.0. Output is 333 hp • 325 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2012 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Audi S4, transmission is Automatic (S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 S4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Audi S4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Audi S4?▾

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Audi S4, fuel economy range is 18-28 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2012 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Audi S4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2012 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Audi S4, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Audi S4, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Audi S4?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Audi S4?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Audi S4?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2012 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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