2021 Audi S4 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2021 Audi S4
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seat belts:rear/other:retractor.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2022 Audi S4 earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine cooling system (moderate severity).
Should You Buy the 2021 Audi S4?
The 2021 Audi S4 offers an intoxicating blend of performance and luxury, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts. While generally well-engineered, its sophisticated systems and premium components translate to higher-than-average running and repair costs, requiring a disciplined approach to maintenance to avoid significant financial surprises.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 3.0T V6 engine (EA839) when properly maintained
- Exceptional 8-speed ZF automatic transmission
- Superior interior build quality and technology integration
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2021 Audi S4. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
TIRES
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
What breaks on the 2021 Audi S4?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Audi S4 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Audi S4. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2021 Audi S4
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Frequently Asked Questions
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