REDLINE ALLEYAudi RS4 B8 buying guide
2012 to 2015. A B8 RS4 suits a buyer who wants a V8 wagon with all wheel drive and will pay for a specialist inspection.
Big jobs
- S tronic dual clutch. The double clutch gearbox is the first area to look at: shudder on take off, thumping into gears, odd shift patterns or a sudden loss of drive.
- Intake valve carbon (4.2 V8). Direct injection lets carbon and sludge build on the intake valves, giving misfires, hard starting, uneven idle and poor economy. Deposits can break off and damage the catalysts.
- Timing chain and tensioners. The 4.2 V8 is chain driven, and the chain and tensioners can wear; replacement is expensive.
- Dynamic Ride Control and suspension. A fault in the dynamic ride control system gives poor ride quality and expensive repairs, and bushes, ball joints and dampers wear at higher km.
Workshop jobs
- Brakes, tyres and load area. Replacement tyres and pads should match the original standard, and the wagon load area may be damaged from bikes and skis.
Questions for the seller
- Is there a full service history?
- Has a carbon clean been done?
- Has the S tronic had any clutch or mechatronic work?
- Does it have Dynamic Ride Control, and does it work in every mode?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.