Audi S4 Avant B9
Discussion
Hello All,
My two front runners for next family wagon are a Leon ST 300 4-Drive or a Mk7.5 Golf R estate. After an encouraging Q4 2023, prices don't seem to have fallen much at all throughout 2024 and the thick end of £20k is still the going rate! I prefer the look of the Leon, but the interior and slightly larger boot of the Golf.
Sitting only fractionally above those two in terms of 2nd price is the Audi S4 Avant B9 with the 3.0T engine. I had not considered one of these until this week, however it is a very handsome looking thing indeed and as we all know a car can only be a good if the number of cylinders exceeds the number of seats :-). 6 cylinders + ZF8 + lovely interior all appeal. Virtual cockpit, DCC, matrix lights and B&O stereo I think would be dream spec. Not fussed about pan roof, definitely don't want red leather.
I was wondering if there is anyone on here running a B9 S4 Avant into 5,6,7yrs old and if there are known/guaranteed huge bills associated? I can afford to run and maintain cars, but if the S4 is inherently wallet emptying it would be good to know.
Thank you
My two front runners for next family wagon are a Leon ST 300 4-Drive or a Mk7.5 Golf R estate. After an encouraging Q4 2023, prices don't seem to have fallen much at all throughout 2024 and the thick end of £20k is still the going rate! I prefer the look of the Leon, but the interior and slightly larger boot of the Golf.
Sitting only fractionally above those two in terms of 2nd price is the Audi S4 Avant B9 with the 3.0T engine. I had not considered one of these until this week, however it is a very handsome looking thing indeed and as we all know a car can only be a good if the number of cylinders exceeds the number of seats :-). 6 cylinders + ZF8 + lovely interior all appeal. Virtual cockpit, DCC, matrix lights and B&O stereo I think would be dream spec. Not fussed about pan roof, definitely don't want red leather.
I was wondering if there is anyone on here running a B9 S4 Avant into 5,6,7yrs old and if there are known/guaranteed huge bills associated? I can afford to run and maintain cars, but if the S4 is inherently wallet emptying it would be good to know.
Thank you
Mine is almost 7 years old with 43k on it. Had it almost 3 years. In that time I've had to replace the air-con radiator, but nothing else big. Niggles that I've had have been the driver's side heated mirror not working (replaced with new glass), the fuel cap not opening, and the illuminated door sill breaking. Nothing drastic, but annoying niggles on a not-that-old car.
I love it, I came from a few BMWs and was surprised how good it is to drive. Maybe not quite 3 series level but not as far off as Audi used to be - IMO BMW have struggled with electric steering whilst Audi haven't to the same extent, so it's probably that the F generation of 3er is not as good to drive as an E90 for example.
Makes a good noise, seats are great and standard Android Auto for Waze on the screen. I live in rural Aberdeenshire so quattro is a real bonus at this time of year, I dislike SUVs and the S4 proves I don't need one. I've got roofbars on and I'm averaging 33mpg according to the car. Tank could do with being a little bigger, real world range is 400 miles. Coming from a 530d I notice the increased fill-ups.
Not planning on ever selling it tbh
I love it, I came from a few BMWs and was surprised how good it is to drive. Maybe not quite 3 series level but not as far off as Audi used to be - IMO BMW have struggled with electric steering whilst Audi haven't to the same extent, so it's probably that the F generation of 3er is not as good to drive as an E90 for example.
Makes a good noise, seats are great and standard Android Auto for Waze on the screen. I live in rural Aberdeenshire so quattro is a real bonus at this time of year, I dislike SUVs and the S4 proves I don't need one. I've got roofbars on and I'm averaging 33mpg according to the car. Tank could do with being a little bigger, real world range is 400 miles. Coming from a 530d I notice the increased fill-ups.
Not planning on ever selling it tbh
I bought a 2017 Avant in March this year, I've done nearly 14k in it so far this year which has surprised me.
Servicing is sensible money, its every 9k which I didn't realise so mines been done twice this year, will do 35mpg on the motorway fairly easily but my average is 27-28 generally.
It is very good on long journeys the front seats are very comfortable and have a massage function which is a nice touch, plenty of space for the kids and the boot isn't a bad size for going away, it makes a pleasing sound too which is missing from most cars these days.
I really like it and I struggle to think what I could buy for sensible money that could replace it that can blend the subtlety practicality and decent performance and be a genuinely nice place to sit, I had a Golf R back in 2014 which I never really got on with in the 3 years I owned it, I found it pretty bland. Only thing I would say is I don't find it particularly quick not sure what others that own them think...
Well worth looking out for one with the options you mention, there are a lot of them out there in pretty much base S4 spec I'm guessing there must have been decent lease deals about at the time, the B&O is particularly good imo.
Servicing is sensible money, its every 9k which I didn't realise so mines been done twice this year, will do 35mpg on the motorway fairly easily but my average is 27-28 generally.
It is very good on long journeys the front seats are very comfortable and have a massage function which is a nice touch, plenty of space for the kids and the boot isn't a bad size for going away, it makes a pleasing sound too which is missing from most cars these days.
I really like it and I struggle to think what I could buy for sensible money that could replace it that can blend the subtlety practicality and decent performance and be a genuinely nice place to sit, I had a Golf R back in 2014 which I never really got on with in the 3 years I owned it, I found it pretty bland. Only thing I would say is I don't find it particularly quick not sure what others that own them think...
Well worth looking out for one with the options you mention, there are a lot of them out there in pretty much base S4 spec I'm guessing there must have been decent lease deals about at the time, the B&O is particularly good imo.
Morning,
I've got a B9 S4 Avant in the spec you call out - matrix lights, B&O, 360 cam, virtual cockpit, adaptive dampers, sports diff, self park, adaptive cruise and probably at least one or two things I'm forgetting!
Currently on 65k ish miles and I've owned it for 8 months and 6k miles or so. December 2016, 66 plate.
I am hot and cold with it at the moment, it's an absolutely LOVELY thing to drive and a real do-it-all daily.
However, I'm finding it a bit more demanding on the wallet for maintenance than I'd like, because in my ownership it's had:
- Rear spring pads
- Differential oil pressure sensors
- PCV valve and air+fuel breather hoses
- Fuel filler cap
And I'm currently trying to resolve an evap system leak and needing to get the radar sensors recalibrated, so another couple hundred on the way for sure.
As well as the routine oil+filter, air filter and brake fluid as well as a gearbox fluid and filter change - which has been pretty reasonable to be fair. As is fuel economy, insurance and VED.
Maybe I'm just hitting a rough patch and I'll be past it after these currently outstanding two bits are addressed, but I must admit rocker arms are at the very back of my mind!
Might be looking to move it on in March or so to free up the capital and operating costs 👀
I've got a B9 S4 Avant in the spec you call out - matrix lights, B&O, 360 cam, virtual cockpit, adaptive dampers, sports diff, self park, adaptive cruise and probably at least one or two things I'm forgetting!
Currently on 65k ish miles and I've owned it for 8 months and 6k miles or so. December 2016, 66 plate.
I am hot and cold with it at the moment, it's an absolutely LOVELY thing to drive and a real do-it-all daily.
However, I'm finding it a bit more demanding on the wallet for maintenance than I'd like, because in my ownership it's had:
- Rear spring pads
- Differential oil pressure sensors
- PCV valve and air+fuel breather hoses
- Fuel filler cap
And I'm currently trying to resolve an evap system leak and needing to get the radar sensors recalibrated, so another couple hundred on the way for sure.
As well as the routine oil+filter, air filter and brake fluid as well as a gearbox fluid and filter change - which has been pretty reasonable to be fair. As is fuel economy, insurance and VED.
Maybe I'm just hitting a rough patch and I'll be past it after these currently outstanding two bits are addressed, but I must admit rocker arms are at the very back of my mind!
Might be looking to move it on in March or so to free up the capital and operating costs 👀
mholt1995 said:
Morning,
I've got a B9 S4 Avant in the spec you call out - matrix lights, B&O, 360 cam, virtual cockpit, adaptive dampers, sports diff, self park, adaptive cruise and probably at least one or two things I'm forgetting!
Currently on 65k ish miles and I've owned it for 8 months and 6k miles or so. December 2016, 66 plate.
I am hot and cold with it at the moment, it's an absolutely LOVELY thing to drive and a real do-it-all daily.
However, I'm finding it a bit more demanding on the wallet for maintenance than I'd like, because in my ownership it's had:
- Rear spring pads
- Differential oil pressure sensors
- PCV valve and air+fuel breather hoses
- Fuel filler cap
And I'm currently trying to resolve an evap system leak and needing to get the radar sensors recalibrated, so another couple hundred on the way for sure.
As well as the routine oil+filter, air filter and brake fluid as well as a gearbox fluid and filter change - which has been pretty reasonable to be fair. As is fuel economy, insurance and VED.
Maybe I'm just hitting a rough patch and I'll be past it after these currently outstanding two bits are addressed, but I must admit rocker arms are at the very back of my mind!
Might be looking to move it on in March or so to free up the capital and operating costs ??
Thanks MHolt1995! That's what's so useful about forums like this. I had not previously been aware of the rocker arm issue. Is yours showing signs of the issue? What is the cost to replace preventatively, rather than after the engine is destroyed!? Feel free to PM me in March if I am not sorted before hand and if you still plan to sell it. It sounds like yours will be a well sorted and very well specc'ed example then so may well appeal!I've got a B9 S4 Avant in the spec you call out - matrix lights, B&O, 360 cam, virtual cockpit, adaptive dampers, sports diff, self park, adaptive cruise and probably at least one or two things I'm forgetting!
Currently on 65k ish miles and I've owned it for 8 months and 6k miles or so. December 2016, 66 plate.
I am hot and cold with it at the moment, it's an absolutely LOVELY thing to drive and a real do-it-all daily.
However, I'm finding it a bit more demanding on the wallet for maintenance than I'd like, because in my ownership it's had:
- Rear spring pads
- Differential oil pressure sensors
- PCV valve and air+fuel breather hoses
- Fuel filler cap
And I'm currently trying to resolve an evap system leak and needing to get the radar sensors recalibrated, so another couple hundred on the way for sure.
As well as the routine oil+filter, air filter and brake fluid as well as a gearbox fluid and filter change - which has been pretty reasonable to be fair. As is fuel economy, insurance and VED.
Maybe I'm just hitting a rough patch and I'll be past it after these currently outstanding two bits are addressed, but I must admit rocker arms are at the very back of my mind!
Might be looking to move it on in March or so to free up the capital and operating costs ??
mholt1995 said:
Morning,
I've got a B9 S4 Avant in the spec you call out - matrix lights, B&O, 360 cam, virtual cockpit, adaptive dampers, sports diff, self park, adaptive cruise and probably at least one or two things I'm forgetting!
Currently on 65k ish miles and I've owned it for 8 months and 6k miles or so. December 2016, 66 plate.
I am hot and cold with it at the moment, it's an absolutely LOVELY thing to drive and a real do-it-all daily.
However, I'm finding it a bit more demanding on the wallet for maintenance than I'd like, because in my ownership it's had:
- Rear spring pads
- Differential oil pressure sensors
- PCV valve and air+fuel breather hoses
- Fuel filler cap
And I'm currently trying to resolve an evap system leak and needing to get the radar sensors recalibrated, so another couple hundred on the way for sure.
As well as the routine oil+filter, air filter and brake fluid as well as a gearbox fluid and filter change - which has been pretty reasonable to be fair. As is fuel economy, insurance and VED.
Maybe I'm just hitting a rough patch and I'll be past it after these currently outstanding two bits are addressed, but I must admit rocker arms are at the very back of my mind!
Might be looking to move it on in March or so to free up the capital and operating costs ??
I love big fast Audis however would not buy another due to the endless maintenance bills. My S8 was basically a grand a visit to the garage and it spent a lot of time there, every time I got in the car I was just waiting for the orange light to come on again, knowing another grand was imminent. I've had 4 TVRs over the years and had less trouble with all 4 than the one Audi.I've got a B9 S4 Avant in the spec you call out - matrix lights, B&O, 360 cam, virtual cockpit, adaptive dampers, sports diff, self park, adaptive cruise and probably at least one or two things I'm forgetting!
Currently on 65k ish miles and I've owned it for 8 months and 6k miles or so. December 2016, 66 plate.
I am hot and cold with it at the moment, it's an absolutely LOVELY thing to drive and a real do-it-all daily.
However, I'm finding it a bit more demanding on the wallet for maintenance than I'd like, because in my ownership it's had:
- Rear spring pads
- Differential oil pressure sensors
- PCV valve and air+fuel breather hoses
- Fuel filler cap
And I'm currently trying to resolve an evap system leak and needing to get the radar sensors recalibrated, so another couple hundred on the way for sure.
As well as the routine oil+filter, air filter and brake fluid as well as a gearbox fluid and filter change - which has been pretty reasonable to be fair. As is fuel economy, insurance and VED.
Maybe I'm just hitting a rough patch and I'll be past it after these currently outstanding two bits are addressed, but I must admit rocker arms are at the very back of my mind!
Might be looking to move it on in March or so to free up the capital and operating costs ??
Bought mine as a pre-reg car back in late 2017 and have done 33k miles in it. Haven’t had any major problems with the car. Had to change the brake servo pressure sensor after an ABS warning came up on the dash. Fortunately the car was at home at the time as I have read that if you drive the car for any distance under that warning it can damage the ABS control unit itself which is expensive. Was about £100 for the part and I changed it myself. Other than that the wireless charging mat no longer works and the passenger dipping mirror sometimes doesn’t dip when going into reverse. Front brakes judder a bit and need to change them, think that is quite common though. Was slightly converned to see some of the reports regarding rocker arm failure but think that this is actually quite rare and often involves cars that have tuned. Despite not doing high mileage, I have the car serviced every year still at a main dealer and it hasn’t been that expensive at all.
Performance is strong, easily as quick as my old e46 M3 and the car in general drives well. As others have said, the seats and interior quality are good so no real complaints. I was lucky in that mine came with the digital dash, B&O sound and matrix headlights. If you can fine a good one, I’d definitely consider it.
I had a B9 S5. While the engine was a peach, the car as a package was hopeless.
It just never felt super premium and I couldn’t get on with the sport seats. Rattles galore.
B&O system was diabolical, despite replacing all of the speakers with some really decent kit (>£1500) and doing a lot of sound deadening.
Didn’t have adaptive dampers - would 100% spec these as standard ride was quite firm. Don’t think you’ll get away from the understeer either.
About 2 years after I bought a G20 320d, which was leagues better in every way other than engine. As a package, so good though that if I was offered either car for free with whichever spec I wanted, I’d pick the 320d all day long. Much more fun to drive, even though it’s a diesel.
If I ever had one again, it would need to have a gearbox tune as in comfort it drove like every BMW I’ve had in eco mode. Accelerator was quite soggy feeling.
Sport mode was decent but it wouldn’t go into 8th on the motorway unless you were on cruise.
I just don’t think Audi have got the calibration of the car right at all. On paper it’s a winning formula. Stunning looks, intoxicating power plant and exhaust note, reasonable cost to run and pretty reliable from what I’ve heard, but it just never hit the spot. It felt utterly dull and I was quite happy to get rid after only 9 months or so.
If your heart is set on one, ensure it has:
Lights package with Matrix + interior lights
Adaptive dampers
Memory seats because what’s the point of electric if they’re not memory
Wouldn’t get B&O as the speakers are shocking, and it’s much harder to upgrade.
Virtual dash is pointless if you use apple CarPlay/Android Auto as you can’t see sat nav directions on it if the phone is plugged in.
It just never felt super premium and I couldn’t get on with the sport seats. Rattles galore.
B&O system was diabolical, despite replacing all of the speakers with some really decent kit (>£1500) and doing a lot of sound deadening.
Didn’t have adaptive dampers - would 100% spec these as standard ride was quite firm. Don’t think you’ll get away from the understeer either.
About 2 years after I bought a G20 320d, which was leagues better in every way other than engine. As a package, so good though that if I was offered either car for free with whichever spec I wanted, I’d pick the 320d all day long. Much more fun to drive, even though it’s a diesel.
If I ever had one again, it would need to have a gearbox tune as in comfort it drove like every BMW I’ve had in eco mode. Accelerator was quite soggy feeling.
Sport mode was decent but it wouldn’t go into 8th on the motorway unless you were on cruise.
I just don’t think Audi have got the calibration of the car right at all. On paper it’s a winning formula. Stunning looks, intoxicating power plant and exhaust note, reasonable cost to run and pretty reliable from what I’ve heard, but it just never hit the spot. It felt utterly dull and I was quite happy to get rid after only 9 months or so.
If your heart is set on one, ensure it has:
Lights package with Matrix + interior lights
Adaptive dampers
Memory seats because what’s the point of electric if they’re not memory
Wouldn’t get B&O as the speakers are shocking, and it’s much harder to upgrade.
Virtual dash is pointless if you use apple CarPlay/Android Auto as you can’t see sat nav directions on it if the phone is plugged in.
Edited by Deviation on Sunday 1st December 00:48
SlowV6 said:
I had not previously been aware of the rocker arm issue. Is yours showing signs of the issue? What is the cost to replace preventatively, rather than after the engine is destroyed!?
~£3.5k, VAG Technic (Dudley) can do this in their sleep.Another responder has knocked the S5 - I've had an S4 Avant & S5 Sportback & the S4 was a significantly better car, better screwed together, less rattles less problems full stop. The only area where the S5 beats the S4 is in handling, the arse end of the S4 was a bit on the slack side & it felt pretty nose heavy (snow plough), no issues with the S5 handling at all.
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