Models · Audi
Audi S1 8X buying guide
Audi's smallest S model, built from 2014 to 2018 as a three-door and a five-door Sportback, with a 231PS 2.0 TFSI, a six-speed manual and quattro four-wheel drive. A small, quick car with a well-documented set of things to look at.
The versions
- 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder turbo petrol (EA888, CWZA), 231PS and 370Nm
- Six-speed manual only; no automatic was offered
- quattro four-wheel drive with a Haldex coupling at the rear axle
- Three-door hatchback and five-door Sportback
What to check on a S1
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Clutch slip
What to look for: On the drive, select a high gear at low revs and press the accelerator firmly. The revs and road speed should rise together. If the revs flare without the car picking up speed, the clutch is slipping. Ask whether the car has been remapped.
Why it matters: The original clutch had a reputation for wearing early, and a remap shortens its life further. Sachs and other uprated replacement clutches are the usual fix, and paperwork for one on a remapped car is a good sign.
The change from first to second
What to look for: From cold, change from first to second a few times, at normal pace and slightly quicker. It should go in cleanly. Notchiness, a crunch or a block going into second is the thing to note.
Why it matters: Worn synchromesh between first and second gears is a known issue and can feel like a clutch problem. It's a gearbox repair rather than a clutch job, so it's worth knowing which you are dealing with.
Creaks and clunks from the engine mounts
What to look for: With the engine running and the handbrake on, have someone watch the engine while you go gently on and off the throttle, and listen for creaking. On the drive, listen for a clunk as you get on and off the accelerator.
Why it matters: Some engine mounts have failed on these cars, which produces an alarming creak. It sounds worse than it is, and mounts are a routine replacement.
Also in the full guide
- Rear-wheel drive engaging
- Coolant leaks
- Rear wheel arch corrosion
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the S1
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.
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.