Here Are The 5 Audi S3 Years to Avoid

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: May 10, 2023

Are you considering buying an Audi S3? Before you make a decision, it's important to know about the potential issues that come with each year's model. From air bag failures to electrical system malfunctions, the Audi S3 has had its fair share of problems. In this post, we'll take a closer look at the Audi S3 years to avoid and what you should be aware of before making a purchase.

Worst Years of Audi S3 by Complaints, Severity of Issues Reported, and Recalls

2015 10 2017 3 2018 2 2019 1 2016 1

What are the Biggest Problems with Audi S3?

2015 Audi S3

AIR BAGS 6 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 2 POWER TRAIN 2 ENGINE 1 SEAT BELTS 1

The Audi S3 has been reported to have issues with its air bags, electrical system, power train, engine, and seat belts. Some owners have complained about the air bags not deploying properly during accidents, while others have experienced electrical system failures that affect the car's performance. The power train and engine have also been known to cause problems, with some owners reporting issues with acceleration and stalling. Finally, there have been concerns raised about the effectiveness of the car's seat belts in protecting passengers during collisions. Overall, it seems that the Audi S3 suffers from a variety of issues that could potentially compromise the safety of drivers and passengers. While some of these problems may be relatively minor, others could have serious consequences in the event of an accident. As such, it's important for Audi to address these issues and ensure that their cars are as safe and reliable as possible.

2016 Audi S3

AIR BAGS 1 SEATS 1

The 2016 Audi S3 has been plagued with issues involving its air bags and seats. Many owners have reported problems with the air bags failing to deploy in the event of a collision, which is obviously a major safety concern. Additionally, the seats have been known to malfunction, causing discomfort and potentially even injury to the driver and passengers. While Audi has issued official recalls to address these issues, it's still important for potential buyers to be aware of these problems before making a purchase. In my opinion, it's disappointing to see such serious safety issues in a car that is otherwise quite impressive.

2017 Audi S3

UNKNOWN OR OTHER 1 VISIBILITY/WIPER 1 BODY > STRUCTURE 1

Look at this beauty. The Audi S3 2017. Now, when it comes to visibility and wipers, this car is no joke. If you're having trouble seeing through the windshield or those wipers ain't doing their job, you might want to check the visibility/wiper components. And let's not forget about the body structure. Any damage to that and you're looking at a whole new ball game. So, take care of this baby and she'll take care of you. That's what I always say.

2018 Audi S3

UNKNOWN OR OTHER 1 VISIBILITY/WIPER 1 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 1 POWER TRAIN 1

Well, this Audi S3 from 2018 has a few issues that are quite common, I'm afraid. The visibility and wiper system can be a bit finicky at times, and the fuel and propulsion system can give you some trouble as well. As for the power train, it's not the most reliable component either. However, it does have some selling points, like its impressive performance and sleek design.

2019 Audi S3

AIR BAGS 1

This 2019 Audi S3 is in need of air bag repairs. Despite this issue, I highly recommend considering this car for its sleek and sporty design, as well as its high-performance capabilities. It would be perfect for anyone seeking a luxurious and thrilling driving experience.

Common Issues with Audi S3

AIR BAGS 8 POWER TRAIN 3 UNKNOWN OR OTHER 2 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 2 SEATS 2 VISIBILITY/WIPER 2 SEAT BELTS 1 ENGINE 1 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 1

Source

Conclusion

The Audi S3 has been reported to have problems with its air bags, electrical system, power train, engine, seat belts, seats, visibility/wiper, body structure, and fuel/propulsion system. These issues have been reported across multiple years, with the air bags being a common problem in 2015 and 2019, and the visibility/wiper being a problem in 2017 and 2018. If you're considering purchasing an Audi S3, it's important to do your research and be aware of these potential issues.