B8 S4 Experts! Questions From A Potential Buyer!

[DaveLinger]

Hi everyone.

A little over a year ago, I got a killer deal on a 2008 S6 V10.

On Friday, I was hit directly in the passenger side of the car, totaling it. Myself and the passenger in the car were totally fine, not a scratch, thankfully. The car probably saved his life.

Anyway, my insurance company is giving me a very nice settlement for the car, and I am looking to "upgrade" to a B8 S4 in the coming months. I want to start by saying I'm not super worried about the car being low mileage - I bought the S6 at 124k, and drove it to 143k, doing all the maintenance myself (including intake manifold disassembly & repair, carbon cleaning, axles, etc).

My budget is $20,000 - $25,000 or so.

The thing I didn't like about the S6 was that I was always worried about maintenance on the engine - which would be VERY expensive. Luckily I never had to do timing chains, but it would have cost the majority of the value of the car if I had. So I am looking to avoid the 4.2 V8 that is common in S4s. I also didn't love the old-school "tiptronic" automatic transmission. It felt like a downgrade from my GLI's DSG. Every car I owned before was a manual, which I wouldn't mind getting back into. Obviously it was never an option for the S6.

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think that by getting a B8, I will be guaranteeing myself the 3.0T supercharged engine - and guaranteeing the DSG S-Tronic transmission if I get an auto. Right? No other options? No 4.2, no "tiptronic" normal automatic?

Wikipedia seems to indicate that although the DSG model gets 1MPG better on the highway, the manual model is 2 tenths of a second faster - which seems odd to me. I thought the whole point of the dual clutch automatic was that it was at least as "fast" as the best manual transmission driver.

So I suppose the manual is "faster", and obviously gives the driver more control, but the auto gets better mileage and won't require an expensive update like a clutch to get up to stage 2 like a manual would. Right?

I want pushbutton start - it seems that this is an option for all years and trims. Some seem to have it, some don't. Unlike the S6, which all had it. Which brings me to my next question... Premium Plus vs Prestige trim. What comes with each?

Which MODEL year was the first with the face lift?

Is seat material just random choice? It seems like there's all black leather, black leather with suede inserts, and black leather with exterior-color inserts. (I think the latter looks tacky).

Thanks in advance!

[Ordie]

Hi everyone.

A little over a year ago, I got a killer deal on a 2008 S6 V10.

On Friday, I was hit directly in the passenger side of the car, totaling it. Myself and the passenger in the car were totally fine, not a scratch, thankfully. The car probably saved his life.

Anyway, my insurance company is giving me a very nice settlement for the car, and I am looking to "upgrade" to a B8 S4 in the coming months. I want to start by saying I'm not super worried about the car being low mileage - I bought the S6 at 124k, and drove it to 143k, doing all the maintenance myself (including intake manifold disassembly & repair, carbon cleaning, axles, etc).

My budget is $20,000 - $25,000 or so. Very doable. My brother just got an 2011 S4 Premium with 42k miles for $23k. Only option he has is Nav.

The thing I didn't like about the S6 was that I was always worried about maintenance on the engine - which would be VERY expensive. Luckily I never had to do timing chains, but it would have cost the majority of the value of the car if I had. So I am looking to avoid the 4.2 V8 that is common in S4s. I also didn't love the old-school "tiptronic" automatic transmission. It felt like a downgrade from my GLI's DSG. Every car I owned before was a manual, which I wouldn't mind getting back into. Obviously it was never an option for the S6.

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think that by getting a B8, I will be guaranteeing myself the 3.0T supercharged engine - and guaranteeing the DSG S-Tronic transmission if I get an auto. Right? No other options? No 4.2, no "tiptronic" normal automatic?All 2010-2016 S4 are 3.0T supercharged. Most are DSG.

Wikipedia seems to indicate that although the DSG model gets 1MPG better on the highway, the manual model is 2 tenths of a second faster - which seems odd to me. I thought the whole point of the dual clutch automatic was that it was at least as "fast" as the best manual transmission driver.

So I suppose the manual is "faster", and obviously gives the driver more control, but the auto gets better mileage and won't require an expensive update like a clutch to get up to stage 2 like a manual would. Right?
There are draw backs to both transmissions. Supposedly early B8 S4s 2010-2011 DSG tranny could give some issue. The manuals come with a pretty weak clutch from the factory.

I want pushbutton start - it seems that this is an option for all years and trims. Some seem to have it, some don't. Unlike the S6, which all had it. Which brings me to my next question... Premium Plus vs Prestige trim. What comes with each?
The premium models, I believe you have to insert the key into the key holder (my wife calls it the vagina) and you push to start the car. I have a 2012 Premium + and I keep the key in my pocket and just hit the push start button. There are 3 trims Premium, Premium + and Prestige. Prestige pretty much has every option and most come with black optic package (at least in my neck of the wood) but the price does reflects that. For the price difference I decided to just go with Premium +.

Which MODEL year was the first with the face lift?2010-2012=B8 2013-2016=B8.5

Is seat material just random choice? It seems like there's all black leather, black leather with suede inserts, and black leather with exterior-color inserts. (I think the latter looks tacky).
Like you said, the seats come different material but are the same style. It seem that the suede is the most popular but I wanted to avoid it, even though it holds you better in place, it makes it harder to slide out of the seat IMO.

Thanks in advance!

Other might give you more details.

[b8audis4]

Correct if you get a B8 S4, you will be looking at only the 3.0T with the DSG or with a manual. There is no tiptronic option.

The DSG is going to get better fuel economy and is a quicker shifting transmission and should be quicker to 60. But if you want a manual due to driver engagement then I would get that. Prestige I believe comes with Push Button Start, Premium Plus it might have been an option on individually but don't quote me on that. Just look for the little button in the center console.

2013 model was facelift. If you get a pre facelift, go for an 11 or 12. Preferably a 12 since most of the issues have been sorted out.

Seat material was an option. Both leather and alcantara was an option. Leather came in black white and red. Alcantara is black or white.

[Jay@JXB]

Here's my B8.5 (2013 and on) 6MTPremium Plus window sticker for what it's worth. I don't know the trim options all that well...

Hasn't been mentioned yet, but don't buy one without the Sports Differential option.


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[Jay@JXB]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161216/de77ef10b49cf8604f447c17ace369a5.png


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[Jay@JXB]

Also, you might as well get one that's already tuned if you're going with a higher mileage one. The Stage 2 tunes (smaller SC pulley, ECU, and TCU tunes) are extremely reliable. If I could go back, I'd have bought one that was already tuned and modded. Most mods on these are pretty beneficial and are extremely expensive. There aren't very many "budget builds" out there since they're still relatively new and the barrier to entry is high.

Most Stage 2 tunes are worth about 75 whp. I can't imagine going back to stock now...


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[Dr GP]

The DSG is definitely faster. I've had 6Mts and have no desire for the DSG, although others love them. As the model yrs progressed , certain Prestige options became standard or available on the Prem+. Push button start became standard in 2014on all models. . Before that, you needed to have keyless entry to get the start button on the Prem+. Standard on the Prestige. In the Us there are only 2 trims. Prem+ and Prestige. In Canada there are 3 . No Premium in USThe seating choice is personal choice. No bad or wrong choice. I love the Nappa leather. Other love the Alcantera. . But IMHO, you have totally missed the best, must have option on the S4. The Sport Dif is THE option that makes the S4 special. It is available as a stand alone option or included in the of the ADS package. Don't buy an S4 without one.

[DaveLinger]

Thanks for all of the tips guys!

I didn't really think about the sport differential, because none of the ebay listings seem to mention it. I guess I will have to ask!

I would love to buy one pre-modded, but obviously the market is limited. The vast majority of S4s for sale have stock tunes.

My ideal S4 would be:

- 2013, maybe 75k miles.
- Gray, Black, Red, or Blue paint (preference in that order)
- Prestige or Premium + with keyless pushbutton start.
- All black leather or black leather w/black alcantara
- Sport diff!
- S-Tronic
- Pre-equipped w/APR or equivalent stage 2 tune/pulley

According to KBB, if I find a Premium + with pushbutton start added on, book value in very good condition is just over $23k - which is perfect (assuming they go for book value). Book value on a 2013 Prestige is just over $25k - which could be do-able if I fall in love with a compatible car.

I will keep my eyes open. Thanks everyone!

[DaveLinger]

How do you guys feel about the Adaptive Damping Suspension? I just saw that on a listing for a 2013.

[CardFan]

Here's the 2013 Audi Order Guide (https://www.audiclubna.org/images/forms/aoa_order_guide_2013.pdf). If you end up looking at other model years just search for the order guide.

The S4 info starts on page 7.

Also, you can email Audi at [email protected] with a VIN and they will send you a copy of the window sticker. They got back to me within a day when I was shopping for mine a few months ago.

[torinalth]

most everything has been covered. Someting to note about the DSG variants. the original was V1 for 2010 and 2011, 2012 got the V1.5, then there was a regearing for V2 in either 2013 or 2014. Stock the B8 is faster because it had a higher redline. Manuals in general are faster with just an engine tune, because tuners allow for 7000-7400 rpm redline depending on the tuner, which gives them more power access. This is eqaled out again when you get a TCU tune for the DSG. 2013 is probably the best all around one (others argue 2012, but I like the 8.5 small aesthetic changes better).

adaptive dampening is great if you are not looking to change suspension. if you ARE going to lower, or go coilovers, then you are going to be forced to buy more equipment to make the system not error out, so DONT get it. I honestly don't find much of a difference in settings, but in general there tend to be less strut or spring issues if you have it, just the problems if you want to start swapping out suspension stuff. That said, since you know you will mod, find one without and just plan on replacing the stock stuff.

[Vanimal]

I'm currently thinking of switching to a B8.5 S4 from my B8 S5 in the near future "possibly". From what I seen in PA by me 20-25k probably won't land you with a B8.5. 20-25k will get you in a 10-12 with the miles you posted maybe even less. But I'd avoid the 2010, possibly even the 11 IF you don't have a warranty and you have the DSG. They can be MEGA costly to fix from what I've read.

Are you financing? I was looking at 2013's that are CPO from 32-35k. CPO warranty gets you you the extended warranty. This would probably be a must for me since I need the DSG. I'd just worry about it too much.

Book value by me for a 2013 is nowhere near 23k. At least not at dealers, but hey they are crooks lol. Private owner you'll save a few thousand, but it will be a hell of a find to get a 2013 for $25k I'd imagine.


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[Vanimal]

Here's a few 2013+ near me. 75k would just by average probably be a 2011-ish.


http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161216/49fa9eca375eed4e3356722ed86a35ee.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161216/9fa5094741bc5059b8a9d89331816197.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161216/31c5a33f908d4de4af52d213c727c150.jpg


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[DaveLinger]

Yeah, the KBB pricing I was referring to was private party, not dealer. For me it's probably going to come down to what is available this Spring when I'm ready to buy a summer car. If there's a 2013 that checks all of the boxes and looks clean but they have to have $28 for it, I'd probably just do it and finance the extra few thousand.

For example this one: https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/686215213/overview/

[Vanimal]

Yeah, the KBB pricing I was referring to was private party, not dealer. For me it's probably going to come down to what is available this Spring when I'm ready to buy a summer car. If there's a 2013 that checks all of the boxes and looks clean but they have to have $28 for it, I'd probably just do it and finance the extra few thousand.

For example this one: https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/686215213/overview/

Probably worth it. They could drop a little in price once the B9 official drops, at least I'm hoping that.


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[Ordie]

The DSG is definitely faster. I've had 6Mts and have no desire for the DSG, although others love them. As the model yrs progressed , certain Prestige options became standard or available on the Prem+. Push button start became standard in 2014on all models. . Before that, you needed to have keyless entry to get the start button on the Prem+. Standard on the Prestige. In the Us there are only 2 trims. Prem+ and Prestige. In Canada there are 3 . No Premium in USThe seating choice is personal choice. No bad or wrong choice. I love the Nappa leather. Other love the Alcantera. . But IMHO, you have totally missed the best, must have option on the S4. The Sport Dif is THE option that makes the S4 special. It is available as a stand alone option or included in the of the ADS package. Don't buy an S4 without one.
Don't know if you are saying that all S4 (B8 & B8.5) in the US were Premium + and Prestige but I know for a fact that there are B8 Premium in the US. My brother has one (2011) and I saw a few when shopping for my S4.
Here is a Premium
http://m.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=445232917&zip=23323&endYear=2017&pageLayout=list&sortBy=yearASC&startYear=2010&searchRadius=300&mmt=%5BAUDI%5BS4%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D

[DaveLinger]

Don't know if you are saying that all S4 (B8 & B8.5) in the US were Premium + and Prestige but I know for a fact that there are B8 Premium in the US. My brother has one (2011) and I saw a few when shopping for my S4.
Here is a Premium
http://m.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=445232917&zip=23323&endYear=2017&pageLayout=list&sortBy=yearASC&startYear=2010&searchRadius=300&mmt=%5BAUDI%5BS4%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D

That one says Premium Plus.

[sacandagaD]

Are you going to tune it? The answer may help determine if you want to pay extra for a CPO from an Audi dealer and/or have warranty left. If not, your choices open up, and the prices are going to be lower at non-Audi sources or private party.

[DaveLinger]

Are you going to tune it? The answer may help determine if you want to pay extra for a CPO from an Audi dealer and/or have warranty left. If not, your choices open up, and the prices are going to be lower at non-Audi sources or private party.

I will probably tune it. I'm not particularly interested in CPO. I've never owned a car with a warranty and haven't had any major issues. I'm capable of doing most work myself. So I'd prefer the upfront savings.

[Ordie]

Don't know if you are saying that all S4 (B8 & B8.5) in the US were Premium + and Prestige but I know for a fact that there are B8 Premium in the US. My brother has one (2011) and I saw a few when shopping for my S4.
Here is a Premium
http://m.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=445232917&zip=23323&endYear=2017&pageLayout=list&sortBy=yearASC&startYear=2010&searchRadius=300&mmt=%5BAUDI%5BS4%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D


That one says Premium Plus.
Just did some research and I stand corrected. There was no "Premium" offered in the US but the Premium + can be found in pretty much with no options like the one I posted from auto trader.

[sacandagaD]

I will probably tune it. I'm not particularly interested in CPO. I've never owned a car with a warranty and haven't had any major issues. I'm capable of doing most work myself. So I'd prefer the upfront savings.

Really the only long term soft spot (outside of T-stats, which a DIY'er can handle) on our cars is concern for the DSG transmission. Even that appears to be improved for 2013 + models.

[Q-DawgVFR]

As someone who just bought a used 2011 B8 and is playing around with mods, I will offer some buying advice:

- Sport diff is a must have for spirited driving. You really notice it. My B6 has upgraded sways and coilovers while the B8 is bone stock suspension. The B6 handles better in general driving, but as soon as I push a corner under power, the B8 kills it with the sport diff.
- Common issues: thermostat, wheel bearings, carbon build-up. My 2011 was covered on carbon buildup for secondary air injection system but I paid $400 CDN to get the intake valves cleaned while I was getting my Stage 2 installed
- Push button start: if you are looking at the actual "start" button vs pressing the key into the dash, I think you are looking at B8.5 (correct me if I am wrong please people)
- DSG car requires a bit more thought on exhaust system and trans tune vs a manual car (exhaust drone more of issue in DSG car that shifts in auto) and DSG limits high RPM without the tune
- I don't know much about the timing chain longevity of these cars vs the B6/B7 S4 cars, but it looks similar in design, so I would expect to possibly replace guides eventually (if I ever do the clutch I might consider doing the guides on timing chain). That being said, many people I talked to seem the thing the timing chain issues have been blown WAY out of proportion. I am having a hard time selling my '04 S4 because of it: lots of people scared to death of owning a car that hasn't had timing chains done (admittedly its a tough pill to swallow if you pay someone to fix)
- Bang for the buck, stage 1 and 2 tuning is pretty good fun return vs money spent, compared to other vehicles I have owned. Having a car that is force fed to begin with is almost always a good starting point. If it isn't on warranty, then mod away with confidence. I haven't gone beyond Stage 2 yet, (and I doubt I will, due to high cost vs amount gained) but I might do supporting mods like header or cooling system upgrades to get the most out of Stage 2 tune. Don't know yet. Just enjoying Stage 2 for now.
- There's pretty good aftermarket support for the B8 vs the B6/B7 cars and I am enjoying this a lot. PArt of the reason I made the switch was because there's so much you can do to these cars, and its less expensive than the V8 car to do. These cars have completely different character from the V8: love to rev, pulls hard at higher RPM, sounds snarly, while the V8 has bottom end and feels more luxurious vs outright sporty. I like both cars, and will miss the V8, but glad for the switch.


Those are just a few of my impressions and experiences after a couple months with the B8. I found my B8 cheap for $20K CDN with slightly higher mileage (around $150K KM) and sunk the difference into maintenance, mods and getting the car mechanically tip top again vs getting a low mileage car and paying closer to $30K

[Jay@JXB]

If you want a modded one just watch the classifieds here. A new one seems to pop up every week.


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[bhvrdr]

I will probably tune it. I'm not particularly interested in CPO. I've never owned a car with a warranty and haven't had any major issues. I'm capable of doing most work myself. So I'd prefer the upfront savings.

Since you are looking for a possibly higher mileage unit you may want to skip the sport diff. While it is a neat novelty. I've had cars that have come with the sport diff and without the sport diff. I can say that on the streets it is a 100% completely unnecessary option. Sure it may be neat for the rear to be able to slide around a little bit better as you goose it around a turn on the way to the grocery. Unless you are going to start racing competitively with it I really don't see the value and it does happen to be a $5,000 part alone. My current car has it and honestly i wish it didnt if i was going to keep the car.

[SportVier]

I really don't see the value and it does happen to be a $5,000 part alone. My current car has it and honestly i wish it didnt if i was going to keep the car.

Totally agree. While it can be entertaining on occasion, I would say that if you are planning to keep the car into high miles without a warranty, I would avoid the Sport Diff.

[Q-DawgVFR]

Totally agree. While it can be entertaining on occasion, I would say that if you are planning to keep the car into high miles without a warranty, I would avoid the Sport Diff.

I guess it depends on how much importance you place on driving dynamics vs reliability. On the used market, there's not a huge difference in different optioned cars like it is when buying new at the dealership, so to me it was worthwhile.

I hear what you guys are saying about things breaking and being expensive to fix, but ask yourself this: do you buy an Audi for its reliability or its driving character?

If all I cared about was reliability, I would probably be driving another Honda or Toyota....... Just saying there's different ways to look at it, depending on what motivates you. Right?

[Lamprey]

How do you guys feel about the Adaptive Damping Suspension? I just saw that on a listing for a 2013.
I think the vast majority of people don't care about this feature. Probably, less on the forums because they are enthusiasts and may replace the suspension anyway.

For me it was a must have feature. So, depends on if it is something you care about or not.

[S4'ed]

Some later year 3.0Ts (2012 on up ?) have "chain-rattle-at-cold-start" issues.....the tensioner needs to be replaced...but Audi claims there is no long-term mechanical issue if you don't update the tensioner. Since the chains and tensioners are on the back-side of the engine, the repair is labor intense....

Shop with caution...I have seen plenty of beat-on S4s....seems people like to drag-race them.....

[SportVier]

I hear what you guys are saying about things breaking and being expensive to fix, but ask yourself this: do you buy an Audi for its reliability or its driving character?

A nose-heavy, 2-ton sedan with numb electrically-assisted steering is never going to have a whole lot of "driving character", imo. I bought mine because it has AWD, 4 doors, pretty good cargo capacity with the rear seat folded (which they are like 90% of the time), decent handling, solid power, and a manual. [up]

[Jay@JXB]

Totally agree. While it can be entertaining on occasion, I would say that if you are planning to keep the car into high miles without a warranty, I would avoid the Sport Diff.

If you know the P/N you can get a perfect sport diff from the junkyard sites like car-part.com for under $1500 ;)


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[DaveLinger]

Loving the conversation guys. Thanks!

Quick question... why the heck do S4's weigh more than comparable S6s? It seems like 500lbs more for any generation. Even a V6 B8 weighs 500lbs more than my V10 S6, and even a C7 S6 weighs less than a B8 S4.

What is the button by the driver side mirror for?

Do all auto B8s have launch control, or was that added in a specific year?

Is the MMI a whole generation newer/better in facelift models?

Here's an S4 I am considering: http://www.lwautomotive.com/2011-Audi-S4/Used-Car/Wexford-PA/7721135/Details.aspx

Downsides: Pre-2013. So no facelift. Headlights look hazy. I was kind of hoping for the suede/alcantara seat inserts and carbon fiber trim. Questionable tread remaining on tires. Listing says new but pics looks half gone.

Upsides: Has sport diff, dynamic steering, and adjustable suspension. Has pushbutton start. B&O sound, navi, backup cam. Has had carbon cleaning done recently by the dealer (which is good considering the mileage).

Anything else jump out at anyone?

[14S4GWM]

The button on the mirror is turn on/off side assist, there is an orange light on each mirror for it.

Yes the mmi is better on the FL models.

[Voodoo08]

I guess it depends on how much importance you place on driving dynamics vs reliability. On the used market, there's not a huge difference in different optioned cars like it is when buying new at the dealership, so to me it was worthwhile.

I hear what you guys are saying about things breaking and being expensive to fix, but ask yourself this: do you buy an Audi for its reliability or its driving character?

If all I cared about was reliability, I would probably be driving another Honda or Toyota....... Just saying there's different ways to look at it, depending on what motivates you. Right?

I would say people buy it more for the refinement. As far as driving dynamics audi is pretty boring when it comes to driving thrill. The feel of the car and steering is pretty numb compared to other cars in its segment or price range. While it does give some thrill in its acceleration due to the all wheel drive and supercharger, I would not really consider it a driver's car.

OP buy the way, I would consider selling mine if you were interested. 2012 with 95k miles.

[DaveLinger]

The button on the mirror is turn on/off side assist, there is an orange light on each mirror for it.

Yes the mmi is better on the FL models.

Side assist being blind spot monitoring?

As for the MMI, what features are added in the facelift models? Or is it just the overall look and feel of the MMI?

[14S4GWM]

Side assist being blind spot monitoring?

As for the MMI, what features are added in the facelift models? Or is it just the overall look and feel of the MMI?

Yes

Updated hardware and software, not sure of specifics. The screen is better. You can update the software for the mmi and the maps through a guy here on AZ.

[doug97gxe]

Since you are looking for a possibly higher mileage unit you may want to skip the sport diff. While it is a neat novelty. I've had cars that have come with the sport diff and without the sport diff. I can say that on the streets it is a 100% completely unnecessary option. Sure it may be neat for the rear to be able to slide around a little bit better as you goose it around a turn on the way to the grocery. Unless you are going to start racing competitively with it I really don't see the value and it does happen to be a $5,000 part alone. My current car has it and honestly i wish it didnt if i was going to keep the car.

I agree with this.. and i have sports diff

[Q-DawgVFR]

Loving the conversation guys. Thanks!

Quick question... why the heck do S4's weigh more than comparable S6s? It seems like 500lbs more for any generation. Even a V6 B8 weighs 500lbs more than my V10 S6, and even a C7 S6 weighs less than a B8 S4.

What is the button by the driver side mirror for?

Do all auto B8s have launch control, or was that added in a specific year?

Is the MMI a whole generation newer/better in facelift models?

Here's an S4 I am considering: http://www.lwautomotive.com/2011-Audi-S4/Used-Car/Wexford-PA/7721135/Details.aspx

Downsides: Pre-2013. So no facelift. Headlights look hazy. I was kind of hoping for the suede/alcantara seat inserts and carbon fiber trim. Questionable tread remaining on tires. Listing says new but pics looks half gone.

Upsides: Has sport diff, dynamic steering, and adjustable suspension. Has pushbutton start. B&O sound, navi, backup cam. Has had carbon cleaning done recently by the dealer (which is good considering the mileage).

Anything else jump out at anyone?

Oh just wanted to say that if you haven't done the seats with the suede before, really think about it carefully. The suede is not even close to the durability of the leather. It is warmer, it is more comfortable, it looks good, and it is grippy when you push the car hard. But it hates getting wet, it seems to stretch worse, it "balls up" with material over time from friction / movement of your pants against the seat fabric, and it is tougher to clean / stains. I got pretty lucky with mine so far on my B6 S4, but I would NEVER do it again. Especially if you ever shuttle kids or pets. I have kids and I always kept an old blanket over the seat cushion and it saved me from disaster a few times.

Suede is not for everyone, that's for sure.

[torinalth]

Going to weigh in on a few evolving concerns. Sport-Diff. yeah it can break, but it is not that common. I really like the feel of the sport diff when moving through turns.... enough to warrant the risk? yes. I find the risk to be low, benefit marginal but I would still get it. its AWD, it will have a feel to push without it.

Alcantara - I disagree with the above about it not being as durable. Mine has not balled up, stretched, bunched, or anything. still solid. Not had any issues with stains or anything. That said I'm not a huge fan of the feel, and yes it IS hotter. kinda nice in winter now, but SUCKS in summer. I'd prefer leather, but had to jump on the first sepang blue with panda interior and a manual, super rare combo. The above is right though, with kids it might be a concern as it can not be wiped down as well as leather. lots of people love alcantara, but I just like the feel of leather more.

[Dr GP]

If you know the P/N you can get a perfect sport diff from the junkyard sites like car-part.com for under $1500 ;)


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I have seen no posts( on AZ,AW, or QW ) from any B8/8.5 owner who retrofitted a sports dif to a non sport dif car.

[Dr GP]

Oh just wanted to say that if you haven't done the seats with the suede before, really think about it carefully. The suede is not even close to the durability of the leather. It is warmer, it is more comfortable, it looks good, and it is grippy when you push the car hard. But it hates getting wet, it seems to stretch worse, it "balls up" with material over time from friction / movement of your pants against the seat fabric, and it is tougher to clean / stains. I got pretty lucky with mine so far on my B6 S4, but I would NEVER do it again. Especially if you ever shuttle kids or pets. I have kids and I always kept an old blanket over the seat cushion and it saved me from disaster a few times.

Suede is not for everyone, that's for sure.

S4s DO NOT come with suede seats. They come with Alcantara inserts. It is a synthetic suede with much better durability and cleaning properties. Big difference. BTW, I love the Nappa leather, but many do love and prefer the Alcantera

[Q-DawgVFR]

Yes you are 100% Alcantera inserts are synthetic suede and if the OP is happy with buying it, that's all that matters. Just wanted to offer a few things to consider about the car before buying, which is what he was asking for. I thought I would love the inserts, too. And it's definitely more forgiving than real suede. I do like some things about it, as I listed. Ultimately it is a personal preference. Wasn't for me, just like sport diff isn't everyone's cup of tea either

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[Jay@JXB]

I have seen no posts( on AZ,AW, or QW ) from any B8/8.5 owner who retrofitted a sports dif to a non sport dif car.

Ah yes, I was just referring to having to replace one. There was some talk of how expensive one would be if it were to break.


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[DaveLinger]

How does everyone feel about S-Tronic tuning?

I had Revo Stage 2 software on my Mk5 GLI, and never sprung for the DSG tuning. The car seemed to drive 100% fine, and Revo even told me it's 100% safe to drive with stock transmission software. If I don't care about increased RPM limits and shift point changes, is there any real point in getting transmission tuning? Or can I just get the Stage 1 tune, and perhaps down the road, get an intake, pulley, and stage 2 tune?

Is there a well-known preference between GIAC, APR, and Revo? Or some other company?

[Vanimal]

How does everyone feel about S-Tronic tuning?

I had Revo Stage 2 software on my Mk5 GLI, and never sprung for the DSG tuning. The car seemed to drive 100% fine, and Revo even told me it's 100% safe to drive with stock transmission software. If I don't care about increased RPM limits and shift point changes, is there any real point in getting transmission tuning? Or can I just get the Stage 1 tune, and perhaps down the road, get an intake, pulley, and stage 2 tune?

Is there a well-known preference between GIAC, APR, and Revo? Or some other company?

The DSG is a unreal transmission, even better I'm sure with a tune. But as someone who's looking to move from my B8 S5 to a B8.5 S4 in the future. You are "sorta" playing with fire having the DSG with no warranty. Wether it be aftermarket or CPO warranty. That is absolutely the ONE & ONLY thing stalling me. If you are one of the unlucky ones and the trans malfunctions, which it's been known to it seems. You are looking at minimum "thousands" probably.

If you are willing to gamble, which I've done myself on cars in the past. Make sure at LEAST it's has the DSG trans service. Which I believe is done at 35k and 75k. I fear I'll always worry about the trans braking and not enjoying the car.

This is the math I did. If I bumped my budget a few grand to a CPO S4. Which around me the sweet spots seems to be 33-35k. I was looking around $29-30k-ish before That adds another 50,000 "roughly" depending on the cars mileage or a few more years warranty wise. Of course the CPO will also have less miles and a fully dealer serviced.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong a mechatronic unit replacement is like a 4-5k job? Some people have high miles with no problems, it's one of those things...


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[doug97gxe]

How does everyone feel about S-Tronic tuning?

I had Revo Stage 2 software on my Mk5 GLI, and never sprung for the DSG tuning. The car seemed to drive 100% fine, and Revo even told me it's 100% safe to drive with stock transmission software. If I don't care about increased RPM limits and shift point changes, is there any real point in getting transmission tuning? Or can I just get the Stage 1 tune, and perhaps down the road, get an intake, pulley, and stage 2 tune?

Is there a well-known preference between GIAC, APR, and Revo? Or some other company?

I'm manual transmission but from what I've read it's 50/50 .. well as far as those who love it and those who have issues... good news is any issue they have it seems universal across all the tunes .. maybe just personal preference. APR comes with more options and features than all the rest.


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[waxxonMTL]

I haven't read the whole thread, but here's my take coming from a guy who work with exotic/supercar and have the luxury of driving them from times to times.

The S4 is a superb daily 4 season car but it's pretty tame STOCK-FORM. My sister have the A4 and the S4 feel barely different than my sister's car. Sure, the 3.0t is more powerful, True! But it was still very tame !! Suspension was ''stiffer'' but still very floaty anyways..

However, buy those insert ( they are like 300$), get coilover ( you can leave alone spring and AK brace and save up for coilover, sway bar for latter but coilover is priority) and get a stage2, for less than 5k$ you know have a wonderful LIVELY ( very important...!! no more tame feeling) car.

If budget is there, then obviously, exhaust and sway bar, LW rims/ good tires etc..

[Q-DawgVFR]

I haven't read the whole thread, but here's my take coming from a guy who work with exotic/supercar and have the luxury of driving them from times to times.

The S4 is a superb daily 4 season car but it's pretty tame STOCK-FORM. My sister have the A4 and the S4 feel barely different than my sister's car. Sure, the 3.0t is more powerful, True! But it was still very tame !! Suspension was ''stiffer'' but still very floaty anyways..

However, buy those insert ( they are like 300$), get coilover ( you can leave alone spring and AK brace and save up for coilover, sway bar for latter but coilover is priority) and get a stage2, for less than 5k$ you know have a wonderful LIVELY ( very important...!! no more tame feeling) car.

If budget is there, then obviously, exhaust and sway bar, LW rims/ good tires etc..

Sorry to do a quick hijack, but which inserts are you referring to? The driveline (trans, diff) stiffening insert mounts that fill the voids in the factory rubber?

I'm looking to get the handling in the B8 up around where my B6 car is at (has Apikol snub, Hotchkiss sways and C/O suspension) and trying to figure out the best order of attack.

From what I have read, the stock sway end links particularly suck on the B8, so I was thinking end links, rear sway bar upgrade - possibly front as well, (not sure if front sway is really worth it vs AK brace, driveline stiffening mounts and coilovers) and I am not sure if I want to do coilovers again, since I never adjusted them from when I first got the car anyway, but it is nice to have a bit of adjustment in case of a slight rub / clearance issue with aggressive wheel/tire combo.

[Jay@JXB]

Sorry to do a quick hijack, but which inserts are you referring to? The driveline (trans, diff) stiffening insert mounts that fill the voids in the factory rubber?

I'm looking to get the handling in the B8 up around where my B6 car is at (has Apikol snub, Hotchkiss sways and C/O suspension) and trying to figure out the best order of attack.

From what I have read, the stock sway end links particularly suck on the B8, so I was thinking end links, rear sway bar upgrade - possibly front as well, (not sure if front sway is really worth it vs AK brace, driveline stiffening mounts and coilovers) and I am not sure if I want to do coilovers again, since I never adjusted them from when I first got the car anyway, but it is nice to have a bit of adjustment in case of a slight rub / clearance issue with aggressive wheel/tire combo.

If you want it to handle awesome, do them all. Every upgrade I did had a noticeable difference. In descending order of effect on handling IMO: TIRES, Coils (pss10 for me, had H&R sport plus Bilststein sport shocks before, and still a night/day difference), sways/end links (don't do one without the other), trans insert, Alu kreuz, CR-15 strut brace, diff inserts, upper control arms (more camber will help you fit more tire and increase responsiveness, this could be higher on the list, but alone don't do anything).


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