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2021 Audi S4 Report

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

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ethan Miller
2021 Audi S4 Report

Overall Score

6.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Audi S4 has a 'Below Average' reliability rating, primarily due to a high number of recalls.
  • Key recall areas include seat belts (rear retractor issues) and rear suspension (axle lock nut failures and alignment).
  • Despite numerous recalls, there are zero reported consumer complaints, suggesting issues may be caught proactively.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 23 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Audi S4

The 2021 Audi S4 is a potent luxury sport sedan that blends everyday usability with spirited performance. Under the hood, a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive provides brisk acceleration. However, for the used car shopper, the S4's appeal is tempered by a notable number of recalls, particularly concerning safety-critical components like seat belts and the rear suspension. While there are no reported consumer complaints, the high volume of recalls suggests potential systemic issues that warrant a buyer's close attention and diligent pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential failures with rear axle lock nuts and alignment concerns. This can lead to suspension instability and accelerated tire wear.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls46
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.6/ 10

Practicality

4.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing long-term, worry-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Audi S4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Audi S4.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

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

Most Common Issues

1. Rear Suspension Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction

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 (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
46 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Audi S4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Audi S4 is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 46. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Audi S4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and small boot. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 340 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Audi S4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Audi S4 is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Rear Suspension Components (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Audi S4?▾

Base MSRP is $49,900.

What engine is in the 2021 Audi S4?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2021 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi S4, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 S4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Audi S4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Audi S4?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2021 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi S4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Audi S4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi S4, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Audi S4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Audi S4, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Audi S4?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Audi S4?▾

This model year has 46 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Audi S4?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class and 2021 Genesis G70.

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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