Models · Audi
Audi A8 D4 buying guide
The D4 A8, built from 2010 to 2017, is an aluminium-bodied luxury saloon with air suspension and an eight-speed automatic, offered with V6 and V8 diesels and V6, V8 and W12 petrols in standard and long-wheelbase forms. It has a good reliability record, and the checks are mostly engine-specific.
The versions
- Diesel: 3.0 TDI V6 and 4.2 TDI V8
- Petrol: 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6, 4.2 FSI V8 (early cars), 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 (also used in the S8) and 6.3 W12
- 8-speed Tiptronic torque converter automatic, quattro on most versions
- Standard and long-wheelbase (L) bodies with adaptive air suspension
- A hybrid version was sold and isn't covered here
What to check on a D4 A8
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Air suspension
What to look for: Look at the car from each corner after it has stood, before it's started. It should sit level. Try the ride height settings and listen for the compressor running for a long time.
Why it matters: Air springs leak and height sensors and compressors wear with age. A corner sitting low after standing is the usual first sign. Parts are readily available.
3.0 TDI rattle on a cold start
What to look for: On a 3.0 TDI, ask for the engine to be cold and listen for a rattle in the first few seconds after starting.
Why it matters: This V6 diesel has its timing chains at the back of the engine, and the upper chain tensioners are the known wear point. A rattle on cold start is the sign, and the work is labour-intensive because of where the chains sit.
3.0 TDI and short journeys
What to look for: Ask how the car has been used. On the drive, watch for warning lights, and check it pulls evenly and doesn't go into reduced power.
Why it matters: The diesel particulate filter and EGR system clog on cars used mainly for short trips, and the intake manifold flaps can wear. A car with regular motorway use is less likely to have these problems.
Also in the full guide
- Coolant leaks on the 3.0 TFSI
- Turbo oil strainers on the 4.0 TFSI
- The motorised screen
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the D4 A8
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Audi.