CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Audi›
  4. S7›
  5. 2016

2016 Audi S7 Report

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

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls
2016 Audi S7 Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Audi S7's primary ownership risk centers on potential turbocharger failure due to oil strainer blockage, a costly repair.
  • Confirm that both the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) and turbocharger oil strainer recalls have been properly addressed.
  • A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicates a history of various system-level issues that warrant careful review of service records.
  • Despite zero formal complaints, the vehicle's overall reliability is rated as average, underscoring the need for a comprehensive inspection.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Audi S7

The 2016 Audi S7 blends potent performance with luxury, powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine and all-wheel drive. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its reliability record. Two critical recalls, one affecting the passenger occupant detection system and another the turbocharger oil supply, highlight potential vulnerabilities. A high TSB count of 303 suggests a history of technical issues, even with zero formal complaints logged. This model demands a meticulous pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the turbocharger system and ensuring all manufacturer remedies are completed.

Critical Failure Risk

The oil supply strainer for the turbochargers can become blocked with sludge or debris. This restricts oil flow to the turbo bearings, leading to premature wear and potential turbo failure. This issue is addressed by recall 22V178000.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a powerful and luxurious grand tourer who understand the inherent risks of high-performance used German cars.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a low-maintenance daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Audi S7 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Audi S7.

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

Vehicle Specs

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

CarFocal account required

See the full 2016 Audi S7 buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Turbocharger Oil Supply Strainer Blockage

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) 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

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Audi S7 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Audi S7 is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Audi S7 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Audi S7?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Audi S7 is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Audi S7?▾

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 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Turbocharger Oil Supply Strainer (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2016 Audi S7?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 4.0.

What transmission does the 2016 Audi S7 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi S7, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 S7 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Audi S7?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Audi S7?▾

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

What body style is the 2016 Audi S7?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi S7, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Audi S7 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi S7, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Audi S7?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

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

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.