Buying a Used Audi RS7 C7: Complete Reliability Guide and What to Watch Out For
The Audi RS7 C7 (2013–2018) blends elegant fastback design with brutal supercar performance. Under the hood lies the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 (EA824) found in the RS6 Avant, producing between 560 and 605 horsepower depending on the model year. It’s a luxury sedan with the heart of a track weapon, capable of 0–60 mph in under 3.5 seconds — while still offering everyday comfort and refinement.
However, potential buyers should know that while the RS7 is built to last, its high-performance components require diligent maintenance. This guide covers the common problems, engine reliability, and key maintenance tips to help you choose the right RS7 C7.
Overview: How Reliable Is the Audi RS7 C7?
The RS7 C7 has proven to be one of Audi’s most reliable performance models, especially when compared to rivals like the BMW M5 (F10) or Mercedes E63 AMG (W212). The Quattro all-wheel drive system and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission handle the car’s massive torque with ease, and the 4.0T V8 can exceed 150,000 miles when properly maintained.
That said, owners who skip regular servicing — especially oil and coolant system maintenance — often face expensive repairs. As with any RS model, a full service history is key.
Common Problems on the Audi RS7 C7
- Turbocharger wear: The twin turbos sit inside the engine’s “hot V,” which traps heat and can cause oil coking or bearing wear over time.
- PCV valve failure: Can cause vacuum leaks, rough idle, or check engine lights.
- Oil consumption: Some early 2014–2015 cars consume more oil due to valve stem seal wear.
- Carbon buildup: Direct injection leads to deposits on intake valves over time, reducing performance.
- Coolant leaks: Plastic water pump and thermostat housings can crack with age.
- Timing chain tensioner wear: A light rattle on cold start is normal, but persistent noise indicates possible wear.
- Air suspension leaks: The adaptive air suspension can sag or lose pressure with mileage.
- Brake vibration: Heavy use can warp rotors or glaze pads.
Engine Reliability: 4.0 TFSI Twin-Turbo V8 (EA824)
The RS7’s 4.0-liter TFSI V8 is an engineering masterpiece — strong, tunable, and capable of big mileage when serviced correctly. It shares architecture with the RS6 and S8, but uses reinforced internals and larger turbos in the Performance version (605 hp).
Key reliability factors:
- Oil changes every 5,000 miles are essential to avoid turbo oil coking.
- Carbon buildup should be cleaned every 60,000 miles for optimal airflow.
- PCV valve and oil separator replacements prevent vacuum leaks and oil smell.
- Coolant leaks near the top of the engine or under the intake manifold are common signs of aging seals.
- Turbocharger health: Whining noises, smoke, or power loss may indicate issues — often linked to oil starvation.
- Injector clogging can occur at higher mileages, leading to misfires.
Verdict:
When maintained with high-quality oil and timely servicing, the RS7’s 4.0T engine is highly durable. Most failures stem from overheating or extended oil intervals rather than design flaws.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic transmission is widely regarded as one of the most reliable gearboxes Audi has used. It handles the RS7’s torque smoothly and efficiently, with minimal issues.
Known points:
- Fluid and filter changes every 50–60k miles are crucial — Audi claims “lifetime fluid,” but neglecting this leads to premature wear.
- Hard shifting or hesitation often indicates overdue fluid service.
- The Quattro system is nearly bulletproof, though rear differential fluid should also be replaced periodically.
- Avoid heavily tuned RS7s that have seen repeated launch-control use — drivetrain components can suffer over time.
Verdict:
With proper maintenance, the transmission and Quattro AWD system can easily exceed 150,000 miles without major issues.
Other Components to Watch
- Air suspension: Expect possible compressor or airbag replacement after 80–100k miles.
- Brakes: RS carbon-ceramic brakes last long but are extremely expensive to replace; standard steel rotors wear faster.
- Electronics: MMI infotainment, backup camera, and soft-close doors can fail over time but are usually inexpensive to repair.
- Battery drain: Common if the car is left parked for long periods due to constant standby power draw.
- Exhaust valves: Occasionally stick open or closed, causing uneven sound or loss of back pressure.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
- Use top-tier synthetic oil (5W-40 or factory-spec 5W-30) and change it every 5,000 miles.
- Replace transmission and differential fluids every 50–60k miles.
- Clean intake valves and injectors every 60k miles.
- Check for coolant leaks and PCV valve failure regularly.
- Allow proper warm-up and cool-down time for the turbos.
- Avoid idling for long periods — it accelerates carbon buildup.
- If tuned, ensure supporting mods (cooling, intercooler upgrades) are installed.
Which Audi RS7 C7 Models to Avoid
- Early 2013–2014 models with no record of PCV or turbo work.
- Heavily tuned cars without cooling or oil system upgrades.
- Track-used examples showing signs of repeated launches or brake wear.
- Cars with incomplete service history or skipped oil changes.
A well-maintained RS7 with full records, especially from a private owner, is a far safer purchase than one from a dealer without history.
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Verdict: Is the Audi RS7 C7 Reliable?
The Audi RS7 C7 is among the most dependable high-performance luxury cars of its generation.
Its 4.0T twin-turbo V8 and ZF 8-speed transmission are exceptionally robust when maintained correctly, while the Quattro drivetrain adds bulletproof traction and stability.
- The engine demands regular oil and PCV service.
- The transmission and AWD system are extremely durable.
- The air suspension and cooling components are the only real weak spots.
In short, a well-kept RS7 is a superb mix of reliability, refinement, and performance — capable of everyday comfort and supercar-level power.