2010 to 2014 Audi S4
The Gist: Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD), a sweet supercharged V6 and a lightning-fast paddle-shift transmission were among the key draws to the latest-generation of Audi’s famed winter-eating sports sedan. The great new cabin and body didn’t hurt, either.
The Test Drive: Head to an Audi dealer with your perspective S4 and have a mechanic check for signs of a failing water pump and thermostat. A recall may apply to have this common issue remedied for free. Note that this issue affected mostly early models.
Confirm proper operation from all on-board electronics and systems, and especially the MMI central-command interface. Look for any “check engine” lights or warning messages in the instrument cluster. Confirm that the clutch isn’t slipping, and that the manual transmission (if equipped) shifts smoothly and without unwelcomed grinding or noise. Be sure the DSG transmission (if equipped) shifts quickly, cleanly, and without any hesitation, slippage or “banging” into gear.
Have a mechanic inspect the rear differential area for signs of a fluid leak, and note that some owners say 2011 or later models are ideal for maximum confidence.
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| 2010 Audi S4 (Photo: Philippe Champoux) |
The Gist: Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD), a sweet supercharged V6 and a lightning-fast paddle-shift transmission were among the key draws to the latest-generation of Audi’s famed winter-eating sports sedan. The great new cabin and body didn’t hurt, either.
The Test Drive: Head to an Audi dealer with your perspective S4 and have a mechanic check for signs of a failing water pump and thermostat. A recall may apply to have this common issue remedied for free. Note that this issue affected mostly early models.
Confirm proper operation from all on-board electronics and systems, and especially the MMI central-command interface. Look for any “check engine” lights or warning messages in the instrument cluster. Confirm that the clutch isn’t slipping, and that the manual transmission (if equipped) shifts smoothly and without unwelcomed grinding or noise. Be sure the DSG transmission (if equipped) shifts quickly, cleanly, and without any hesitation, slippage or “banging” into gear.
Have a mechanic inspect the rear differential area for signs of a fluid leak, and note that some owners say 2011 or later models are ideal for maximum confidence.
 |
| 2010 Audi S4 (Photo: Philippe Champoux) |