Models · Audi
Audi S3 8Y buying guide
The fourth S3, on sale from 2020 as a Sportback and saloon, with a 310PS 2.0 TFSI, a 7-speed S tronic and quattro. The 2024 facelift raised power to 333PS and replaced the Haldex coupling with a rear torque splitter.
The versions
- 2020 to 2024: 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder turbo (EA888), 310PS and 400Nm
- 2024 facelift onwards: 333PS and 420Nm
- 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic only
- quattro four-wheel drive: a Haldex coupling before the facelift, a rear torque splitter with two clutches after it
- Five-door Sportback and four-door saloon
What to check on a 8Y S3
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Coolant level and leaks
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant is between the marks, and look around the engine with a torch for pink crusty deposits. Watch the temperature gauge on the drive and ask whether the low coolant warning has ever come on.
Why it matters: A few cooling system failures have been reported on this S3. Most cars are fine, but a level that holds steady and a gauge that sits still are what to look for, as running low on coolant can damage the engine.
S tronic at low speed
What to look for: Do some slow manoeuvring and gentle pulling away, from cold if you can. Changes should be smooth with a prompt response. Jerky shifts, a delay before drive engages, or oil under the gearbox is the thing to note.
Why it matters: A few owners have reported jerky shifting, delayed engagement and fluid leaks from the gearbox. A specialist can read the gearbox data, and a record of gearbox oil changes is a good sign.
Misfires and boost
What to look for: Accelerate firmly in a higher gear from low revs. The engine should pull hard and evenly. A stutter, flat spot or engine warning light is the thing to note.
Why it matters: Engine misfires and a few boost pressure problems have been reported. A diagnostic scan shows stored faults, and a car that pulls cleanly with no codes is the good result.
Also in the full guide
- Front suspension clunks
- Oil leaks
- Infotainment, electrics and recalls
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 8Y S3
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.