Models · Audi
Audi RS4 B8 buying guide
The B8 RS4 was sold from 2012 to 2015 as an Avant only, with a 4.2 litre naturally aspirated V8 revving to 8,500rpm, a 7-speed S tronic and quattro with a torque-vectoring sport differential. Over 2,000 went to UK buyers.
The versions
- 4.2 FSI V8 (CFSA), 450PS at 8,250rpm and 430Nm
- 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic only; no manual was offered
- quattro with a crown-gear centre differential, a 40/60 front to rear default split and a torque-vectoring sport rear differential
- Avant only
- Dynamic Ride Control adaptive damping came with the optional Sport package, chosen by about four in five new buyers; Dynamic Steering was a popular option
- Nogaro Selection limited edition in 2014, about 200 built
What to check on a B8 RS4
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
S tronic at low speed
What to look for: In traffic and at parking speeds, notice any surging or shunting in first and second gear. Change gear in manual mode with both the paddles and the lever and feel for hesitation. Listen for a hum at idle or a whine at speed.
Why it matters: These are the gearbox symptoms specialists look for on this car. Surging can come from contaminated clutch packs inside the gearbox, which is a bigger job than a fluid change, so a gearbox that behaves well at low speed is the main thing to confirm.
Coolant level
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant expansion tank is between its marks. Ask whether the car has needed regular coolant top-ups, and look in the history for any gearbox work linked to coolant.
Why it matters: A failed seal can let coolant into the gearbox, where it contaminates the clutch packs and causes the low-speed surging. Unexplained coolant loss on a car with a jerky gearbox is the combination to take seriously.
Gearbox and front final drive servicing
What to look for: In the service history, look for gearbox oil and filter changes, and for the front final drive oil, which is due every 20,000 miles.
Why it matters: Gearbox repairs on this car are a major job, so specialists treat the oil and filter service as preventative maintenance. A record of on-time gearbox and final drive services is a sign of a car that's been looked after, and many owners also take an extended warranty.
Also in the full guide
- Knocking from the suspension
- Tramlining and the front arms
- Which brakes and wheels it has
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the B8 RS4
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.