The Audi S4, a performance-oriented version of the popular Audi A4, blends a high-output engine with sophisticated transmission systems to deliver a dynamic driving experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Correct Transmission Fluid: Using the specified transmission fluid is crucial for the Audi S4’s performance and longevity.
- Regular Checks: Regular checking and changing of transmission fluid can prevent common transmission issues.
- Cost Management: Comparative shopping and considering a DIY approach could save costs on transmission fluid changes.
- Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to Audi’s maintenance schedule for fluid changes can avert costly repairs down the line.
- Professional Service: Visiting a certified Audi service center is recommended for accurate and professional service.
The Audi S4 is a hallmark of engineering finesse, manifesting a perfect blend of performance, luxury, and technology. Born from the esteemed lineage of the Audi A4, the S4 takes everything a notch higher, offering a more powerful engine and a refined transmission system designed for those with a penchant for spirited driving.
Its sleek design, robust engine, and agile transmission system position the S4 as a vehicle of choice for enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and performance.
The meticulous engineering infused in its transmission system is palpable in every gear shift, embodying Audi’s commitment to delivering a transcendent driving experience.
The essence of the flawless operation of the Audi S4’s transmission system lies in the quality and adequacy of the transmission fluid. This seemingly innocuous fluid plays a multifaceted role, serving as a lubricant, a coolant, and a hydraulic fluid, each function being indispensable to the optimal performance of the transmission. As a lubricant, it minimizes friction among moving parts, averting undue wear and tear.
Its cooling attribute is crucial in maintaining the transmission at the right temperature, thus preventing overheating, which could culminate in severe damage.
In automatic transmissions, it acts as a hydraulic fluid, which facilitates gear shifts. The right type and level of transmission fluid are paramount. A specified type or level deviation could precipitate issues ranging from erratic gear shifts to a complete transmission failure.
Hence, understanding the specified transmission fluid type and capacity for the Audi S4 is imperative for maintaining its performance and pivotal for averting costly repairs.
2018 – 2024 Audi S4 Transmission Fluid Capacity and Transmission Fluid Type
For the 2018 – 2024 Audi S4 models, the transmission configurations are as follows:
- 0D5 8-speed automatic transmission: Total fill is 9.1 quarts (8.6 liters) with an initial fill of 3.8 quarts (3.6 liters), requiring fluid type G 060 162 A2.
- Transfer Case (with 0D5 transmission): Requires 0.9 quarts (0.8 liters) of fluid type G 055 145 A2.
- Front Differential (with 0D5 transmission): Requires 1 quart (0.9 liters) of fluid type G 052 145 S2.
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
| 0D5 8-speed automatic transmission | Total fill: 9.1 quarts (8.6 liters) Initial fill: 3.8 quarts (3.6 liters) | G 060 162 A2 |
| Transfer case (with 0D5 transmission) | 0.9 quarts (0.8 liters) | G 055 145 A2 |
| Front differential (with 0D5 transmission) | 1 quart (0.9 liters) | G 052 145 S2 |
The S4 comes with an optional Full Audi Service. The transmission must be serviced; it includes a flush, gasket, fluid change, filter replacement, hose, pan inspection, and a free multi-point check on all other components.
Because of the time it takes and the fact that the flush replaces the fluid in the pan and removes fluid from cooler lines and other components of your transmission, a transmission flush is typically twice as expensive as a fluid change. A complete Audi S4 transmission clean and drain uses about 10 quarts of fluid.
Changing the transmission filter of your Audi S4 is not as straightforward as changing the engine oil. The filter itself is typically a metal plate that contains a fiber material to trap pollutants. Additionally, your Audi S4 has a pickup tube, a gasket, and a rubber seal, which all need to be replaced at the same time as the filter.
Every 30,000 or 50,000 miles, your Audi S4’s transmission filter must be changed. See your car’s maintenance handbook for more mileage and timing restrictions.
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Audi S4 Transmission Fluid Capacity and Transmission Fluid Type
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
| 0B2 6-speed manual | 10.1 pints (4.8 liters) | GL-4 75W-90 G 055 532 A2 |
| 7-speed DSG (0B5, DL501) | Automatic part – 7.4 quarts (7 liters) Mechanical part – 5.3 quarts (5 liters) | Automatic part – G 052 529 A2 Mechanic part – G 052 513 A2 |
| 8-speed CVT (0AW) | 8.4 quarts (8 liters) | G 052 516 A2 |
For the Audi S4 models between 2010 and 2016, the transmission specifications are:
- 0B2 6-speed manual: 10.1 pints (4.8 liters) of GL-4 75W-90 G 055 532 A2.
- 7-speed DSG (0B5, DL501): The automatic part needs 7.4 quarts (7 liters) of G 052 529 A2, and the mechanical part requires 5.3 quarts (5 liters) of G 052 513 A2.
- 8-speed CVT (0AW): Requires 8.4 quarts (8 liters) of G 052 516 A2 fluid
2006 2007 2008 Audi S4 Transmission Fluid Capacity and Transmission Fluid Type
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
| 0A3 6-speed manual transmission | 6.8 pints (3.2 liters) | GL-4 75W-90 G 052 911 A1 (A2) |
| 6-speed automatic (09L, Tiptronic) | 9 quarts (8.5 liters) | G 060 162 A2 |
For the Audi S4 models spanning 2006 to 2008, the transmission fluid capacities and types are as follows:
- 0A3 6-speed manual transmission: 6.8 pints (3.2 liters) of GL-4 75W-90 G 052 911 A1 (A2).
- 6-speed automatic (09L, Tiptronic): Requires 9 quarts (8.5 liters) of G 060 162 A2 fluid
2004 2005 Audi S4 Transmission Fluid Capacity and Transmission Fluid Type
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
|---|---|---|
| 01E 6-speed manual | 5.3 pints (2.5 liters) | GL-4 75W-90 G 052 532 A2 |
| 6-speed automatic (09L, Tiptronic) | 9 quarts (8.5 liters) | G 060 162 A2 |
For the Audi S4 models spanning 2004 to 2008, the transmission fluid capacities and types are as follows:
- 0A3 6-speed manual transmission: 6.8 pints (3.2 liters) of GL-4 75W-90 G 052 911 A1 (A2).
- 6-speed automatic (09L, Tiptronic): Requires 9 quarts (8.5 liters) of G 060 162 A2 fluid
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Audi S4 Transmission Fluid Capacity and Transmission Fluid Type
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
| 2.7L 6-cyl APB Turbo 6-speed manual | 4.9 pints (2.3 liters) | GL-4 75W-90 G 052 532 A2 |
| 2.7L 6-cyl APB Turbo 01V 5-speed automatic | Total fill: 9.5 quarts (9 liters) Initial fill: 4.2 quarts (4 liters) | G 052 162 A2 |
For the Audi S4 models between 1997 and 2002, the specifications are as follows:
- 2.7L 6-cyl APB Turbo 6-speed manual: 4.9 pints (2.3 liters) of GL-4 75W-90 G 052 532 A2.
- 2.7L 6-cyl APB Turbo 01V 5-speed automatic: Total fill is 9.5 quarts (9 liters) with an initial fill of 4.2 quarts (4 liters), requiring fluid type G 052 162 A2.
Audi S4 Common Transmission Issues
The transmission system in an Audi S4 is a complex assembly that can exhibit several issues if not properly maintained. Some common transmission issues include:
- Delayed Gear Engagement: This occurs when there’s a delay before the car engages into drive and starts moving.
- Jerky Shifting: This could be a sign of a worn clutch or other failing components.
- Transmission Slippage: It feels like your car changes gears without any input on your part.
- Transmission Warning Light: The warning light or check engine light may illuminate.
- Unusual Noises: Hearing grinding or chattering noises when you shift gears could be a sign of a transmission issue.
- Fluid Leaks: Transmission fluid leaks are a common issue that can lead to serious problems if not addressed.
Role of Transmission Fluid
The transmission fluid plays a vital role in maintaining the health and efficiency of the transmission system. Its importance cannot be overstated, as it performs several functions:
- Lubrication: It lubricates the moving parts within the transmission, reducing friction and preventing wear.
- Cooling: It acts as a coolant to keep the transmission from overheating.
- Hydraulic Fluid: It acts as a hydraulic fluid in automatic transmissions, enabling smooth gear shifts.
- Cleaning: It helps to clean internal parts of the transmission, carrying away debris and sludge.
Utilizing the correct type and amount of transmission fluid, as specified by Audi, can help mitigate many common transmission issues, prolong the life of the transmission, and ensure a smoother driving experience.
It’s advisable to check the transmission fluid level and condition at regular intervals and replace it as per Audi’s maintenance schedule to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Checking and Changing Transmission Fluid
When to Check: It’s advisable to check the transmission fluid level and condition every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
When to Change: Audi recommends changing the transmission fluid between 35,000 and 45,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions and style.
Procedure to Check and Change:
- Checking:
- Park on a level surface, keep the engine running, and shift through all gears, ending in Park.
- Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it, and then remove it again to check the level and color of the fluid.
- Changing:
- Drain the old fluid, replace the filter, and clean the pan.
- Refill with the specified amount and type of transmission fluid.
- Run the engine, shift through gears, and recheck the level, topping off if necessary.
Cost of Changing Transmission Fluid
The cost of changing the transmission fluid in an Audi S4 can range between $200 to $500, depending on the labor rates in your area, the specific model of your Audi S4, and whether any additional services or parts are needed.
Labor costs usually constitute a significant portion of the total cost, and the brand and quality of the transmission fluid used can also impact the total cost.
Cost Saving Tips
- Comparative Shopping: Obtain quotes from multiple service centers to ensure a competitive price.
- DIY Approach: If you have the necessary skills and tools, you could change the transmission fluid, saving labor costs.
- Service Bundling: Some service centers may offer discounts when bundling the transmission fluid change with other maintenance services.
- Regular Maintenance: Preventive maintenance can help avoid more serious and costly transmission issues down the line.
- Online Deals and Coupons: Look for online deals, coupons, or discounts offered by service centers, which could significantly reduce costs.
By considering these cost-saving tips and having a good understanding of the estimated costs involved, you can better manage the maintenance cost of your Audi S4’s transmission system, ensuring it continues to function optimally without breaking the bank.
