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2013 Audi S4 Report

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

Updated May 23, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2013 Audi S4 Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Audi S4 has a critical safety recall for its airbag control module software; verify completion.
  • With 503 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), expect potential electronic and component issues beyond recalls.
  • The 3.0L V6 engine paired with a manual transmission and Quattro AWD offers spirited performance.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Audi S4

The 2013 Audi S4 is a performance-oriented sedan that blends potent V6 power with Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive. It delivers an engaging driving experience, underpinned by a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict, marked by a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and a critical recall concerning the airbag control module. These factors suggest a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection and a realistic expectation of potential maintenance costs.

Critical Failure Risk

The 3.0L supercharged V6 engine in the S4 is known for developing oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets and the oil cooler seals. These leaks can lead to oil consumption and potential damage if left unaddressed.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$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
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

3.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a potent German sport sedan with all-wheel drive.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking low-maintenance transportation.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Audi S4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Audi S4.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
20

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

Most Common Issues

1. Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Cooler Seals)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Supercharger Belt Failure

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

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 2013 Audi S4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Audi S4 is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Audi S4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Audi S4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Audi S4 is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 3.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 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 - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Valve Cover Gaskets (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2013 Audi S4?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2013 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Audi S4, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 S4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Audi S4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Audi S4?▾

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

What body style is the 2013 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Audi S4, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Audi S4, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Audi S4?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Audi S4?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Audi S4?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2013 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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