SuspensionHigh
Air suspension compressor and strut leaks causing sagging ride height
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check ride height overnight and listen for the compressor running excessively
2010–2017 Audi A8 · common problems & known faults
A luxury flagship that is remarkably affordable secondhand, but air suspension, electronics and complex ancillaries can turn a bargain into a money pit.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2010–2017 Audi A8 are Air suspension compressor and strut leaks causing sagging ride height, MMI infotainment and multiple control unit faults and Timing chain tensioner wear on early 3.0 TDI and TFSI units. 4 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Audi A8.
3.4/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 4
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalHigh
MMI infotainment and multiple control unit faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test every electronic feature including seats, screens and cameras
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Build the inspection planEngineHigh
Timing chain tensioner wear on early 3.0 TDI and TFSI units
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Cold start and listen for chain rattle from the front of the engine
TransmissionMedium
Automatic gearbox mechatronic faults causing harsh or delayed shifts
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive through all gears and feel for harsh or delayed shifting
CoolingMedium
Coolant leaks from plastic pipe connectors and water pump
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check coolant level and look for staining around pipe joints
Body / ElectricalMedium
Doors fail to lock or unlock when touching the exterior handles due to failed Advanced Key capacitive sensors.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the key fob in your pocket, test the lock and unlock touch functions on all four exterior door handles individually.
Engine / ExhaustMedium
Hissing noises and exhaust fumes entering the cabin caused by cracked exhaust flexi-pipes on 3.0 TDI models.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold, open the bonnet, and sniff for exhaust gases near the bulkhead whilst listening for a chuffing noise.
Engine / Forced InductionHigh
Siren-like whining on acceleration or EPC light illumination due to turbocharger starvation from a blocked oil strainer screen on 4.0 TFSI models.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine, open the bonnet, and blip the throttle gently. Listen closely for a distinct siren or dentist-drill whine from the 'V' of the engine.
Inspecting a Audi A8?
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the A8 expensive to run?
Yes, air suspension, electronics and chain repairs can be very costly on a car this complex.
What is the single most important check?
An overnight ride height check combined with a full electronic systems test.
Which engine is the safer buy?
Later 3.0 TDI examples with documented chain and mechatronic work are the most dependable.
Should I buy without full history?
No, an A8 without a complete main dealer or specialist history carries significant financial risk.
Are the Matrix LED headlights problematic?
Matrix LED units are prone to internal condensation and individual diode failures. Replacement clusters are exceptionally expensive as they cannot be easily repaired. Always check the dynamic indicator sweeps and ensure no warning lights appear. Persistent heavy misting inside the lens usually dictates a complete, costly unit replacement.
Does the Quattro system require specific tyre maintenance?
Yes, the D4 is highly sensitive to mismatched rolling radiuses. Uneven tyre wear or mixing different brands across axles can cause drivetrain wind-up, leading to vibrations and premature centre differential wear. Always ensure all four tyres are identical in brand and have closely matched tread depths across both axles.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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