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2023 Audi S8 Report

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

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

6.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 Audi S8's primary ownership risk centers on a critical frontal airbag recall (23V084000) affecting passenger protection. Ensure this recall is addressed.
  • A high volume of 267 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicates potential for various system malfunctions or performance degradations that may not yet be safety-critical but warrant attention.
  • Despite a lack of owner complaints, the combination of a critical recall and numerous TSBs leads to a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, suggesting potential for future issues.
  • The 2023 Audi S8 is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine requiring premium fuel and features an All-Wheel Drive system for confident traction.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Audi S8

The 2023 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan that blends potent V8 power with sophisticated technology. For the used car shopper, this means a compelling driving experience is on offer, but it comes with a significant asterisk regarding long-term reliability. A critical recall for the front passenger airbag system and an unusually high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential for future complications. While owner complaints are currently low, these underlying indicators warrant a cautious approach to ownership. Fuel economy is also a consideration, with combined MPG of 18.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall (23V084000) identified a potential defect in the front-passenger airbag module. While this is a safety compliance issue, any related component failure could impact occupant protection.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 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
18
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.1/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers prioritizing performance and luxury who are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections.

+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

2023 Audi S8 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Audi S8.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
18

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See the full 2023 Audi S8 buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Airbag System Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Rearview Camera Software Glitch

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, Washer)

Est. shop cost: $250 - $450

10,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 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
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Audi S8 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Audi S8 is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Audi S8 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Audi S8?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Audi S8 is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Audi S8?▾

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, Washer) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Control Module (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2023 Audi S8?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 4.0.

What transmission does the 2023 Audi S8 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Audi S8, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2023 S8 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Audi S8?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Audi S8?▾

11 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2023 Audi S8?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Audi S8, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Audi S8 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Audi S8, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Audi S8?▾

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

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