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2018 Audi S7 Report

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

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2018 Audi S7 Report

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2018 Audi S7 has a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, warranting thorough pre-purchase inspection.
  • A key concern is the passenger occupant detection system (PODS) malfunction, linked to a safety recall.
  • While no customer complaints were logged, a high TSB count (176) suggests potential for various electronic and mechanical issues.
  • Performance is strong, with an 8-cylinder, 4.0L premium fuel engine and all-wheel drive.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Audi S7

The 2018 Audi S7 is a potent grand tourer blending V8 power with quattro all-wheel drive. While its performance is undeniable, used buyers must be aware of its reliability standing. With a single recall concerning a critical safety system and a high TSB count, proactive inspection is paramount. Fuel economy is typical for its class, demanding premium fuel.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addresses potential wear of the body-sensing mat in the front passenger seat, which can lead to OCS malfunction. This affects airbag deployment logic.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$4,000 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
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.7/ 10

Practicality

5.8/ 10

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

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts prioritizing performance and luxury over long-term, worry-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking low-cost, dependable daily transportation.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Audi S7 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Audi S7.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S7)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
18

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See the full 2018 Audi S7 buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Occupant Classification System (OCS) Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Oil Leaks

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 - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Audi S7 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Audi S7 is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Audi S7 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 694 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Audi S7?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Audi S7 is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Practicality 5.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Occupant Classification System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Audi S7?▾

Base MSRP is $81,200.

What engine is in the 2018 Audi S7?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 4.0.

What transmission does the 2018 Audi S7 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S7, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 S7 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Audi S7?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Audi S7?▾

9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Audi S7?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S7, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2018 Audi S7?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S7, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Audi S7 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S7, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Audi S7?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Audi S7?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 BMW M550i and 2018 Porsche Panamera.

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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