Overview

The Audi B9 RS 4 Avant is a high-performance, compact executive wagon. To be manufactured in Ingolstadt, Germany, the all-wheel drive Audi B9 RS 4 will be powered by a 2.9-litre biturbo V6 petrol engine that is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Australian deliveries of the Audi B9 RS 4 are expected to commence in the second quarter of 2018.

2.9 TFSI biturbo V6 engine

Shared with the Audi F5 RS 5 Coupe , the 2894 cc V6 engine is understood to have an aluminium alloy crankcase and cylinder head, thin-walled grey cast iron cylinder liners, aluminium pistons, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing, variable intake valve lift, two turbochargers – one for each cylinder bank – that are positioned within the engine’s ‘V’ and direct injection.

To achieve a higher compression ratio and avoid knock (i.e. uncontrolled detonation), the TFSI biturbo engine has a shorter compression phase relative to the expansion phase. According to Audi, the valvelift system enables shorter intake valve opening times under part loads by closing the intake valves early. At higher loads, however, the inlet valves are actuated via a camshaft contour that provides a longer opening time and larger valve stroke to maximise engine power.

The Audi B9 RS 4 Avant can accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (280 km/h with the optional RS dynamic package). Over the combined NEDC test cycle, fuel consumption is 8.8 litres per 100 km.

quattro all-wheel drive system

The four-wheel drive ‘quattro’ system for the Audi B9 RS 4 is a mechanical system which utilises a self-locking central differential (designed as a planetary gear train). In normal conditions, the differential delivers 60 per cent of the engine’s torque to the rear axle and 40 per cent to the front, i.e. a 40:60 front:rear torque split. Depending on the situation, however, up to 70 per cent of the engine’s torque can be transferred to the front and up to 85 per cent to the rear.

Wheel-selective torque control and sport differential

As standard, the Audi RS 4 has ‘wheel-selective torque control’. During ‘dynamic cornering’, wheel-selective torque control brakes the front and rear inside wheels to prevent wheelspin and improve turn-in.

As an extra-cost option, the Audi RS 4 can be specified with a rear ‘sport differential’ that distributes torque between the rear wheels via two superposition gears. In this process, a software function integrated into the central chassis control unit continuously computes the ideal torque split. When turning into or accelerating in a curve, most of the torque is directed to the outside wheel to generate yaw and reduce understeer.

Body and dimensions

The Audi B9 RS 4 Avant is underpinned by Volkswagen AG’s MQB platform. Compared to the Audi B8 RS 4 Avant , the Audi B9 RS 4 Avant is 62 mm longer (at 4781 mm), 16 mm wider (1866 mm), 12 mm lower (1404 mm) and has a 13 mm longer wheelbase (2826 mm). Furthermore, the Audi B9 RS 4 Avant weighs 1790 kg.

Relative to the Audi B9 A4 , changes for the B9 RS 4 Avant include 30 mm wider wheel arches which have ‘quattro blisters’ for added emphasis, an RS-specific rear diffuser insert, oval tailpipes and a roof edge spoiler.

Suspension

The Audi B9 RS 4 has five-link front suspension in which the upper links are integrated into the bodywork and the lower links are attached with rubber mounts to a hybrid steel/aluminium sub-frame. For the five-link rear suspension, the axle is insulated from the body by hydraulically damped axle mounts. To reduce mass, the axle links, pivot bearings and damper stilts are made of forged aluminium. Compared to the Audi B9 A4 , the suspension of the B9 RS 4 Avant is 7 mm lower.

As an extra-cost option, the Audi RS 4 can be specified with Audi’s ‘Dynamic Ride Control’ (DRC). With DRC, diagonally-opposed pairs of shock absorbers are linked by hydraulic lines and a central valve. When cornering at speed, the valves regulate oil flow within the shock absorber of the deflected outside front wheel almost immediately, providing greater support and reducing lateral lift. DRC also includes three selectable damping settings: comfort, auto and dynamic.

Steering

The Audi B9 RS 4 has electromechanical power steering in which the level of power assistance was inversely proportional to vehicle speed. As an option, the Audi B9 RS 4 is available with ‘dynamic steering’ which varies its ratio – by up to 100 per cent – according to the vehicle speed, steering angle and the mode selected in the ‘Audi drive select driving-dynamics’ system.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi B9 RS 4 includes dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

As standard, the Audi B9 RS 4 is expected to be fitted with:

• ‘Audi pre sense city’: operating at speeds up to 85 km/h, Audi pre sense city uses a windscreen-mounted front camera to scan the road for other vehicles and pedestrians. If there is a risk of a collision, the driver receives a series of warnings. If the driver fails to respond, full braking force is applied autonomously. At initial speeds of up to 40 km/h, collisions can be prevented; at higher speeds (up to 85 km/h), the severity of the collision is reduced;
• Audi pre sense front: an extension of ‘Audi pre sense city’, pre sense front operates at speeds up to 250 km/h and can prevent front-to-rear collisions or reduce their severity. In hazardous situations, the driver receives visual and acoustic warnings to apply the brakes, followed by a brief application of the brakes for a jolting effect to alert the driver. If the driver fails to respond, the RS 4 decelerates to the greatest possible extent if the vehicle ahead of it is still moving;
• ‘Audi pre sense rear’: can warn of potential collisions from behind, warn following traffic by rapidly flashing the brake lights and activate the ‘Audi pre sense basic’ protection measures described below;
• ‘Audi pre sense basic’: initiates occupant protection measures such as tightening the front seatbelts, closing the windows and sunroof (where fitted), and activating the hazard lights when ‘unstable driving conditions’ are detected;
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): using two front radar sensors and the camera, ACC can maintain a specified distance – from five distances – between the RS 4 and the vehicle ahead. Furthermore, ‘Audi drive select’ can be used to adjust the rate of acceleration and other control dynamics;
• Stop&Go function: an extension of the ACC, ‘Stop&Go’ operates at speeds of 60 km/h to apply the brakes and bring the vehicle to rest. Once traffic begins moving, the Audi RS 4 automatically accelerates;
• Traffic jam assistant: as part of the ACC, the Traffic jam assistant provides automated steering if traffic is congested and vehicle speeds are below 65 km/h;
• Audi side assist: operating at speeds above 15 km/h, Audi side assist uses two rear radar sensors to monitor traffic up to 70 metres behind the RS 4. If another vehicle approaches quickly or is in the driver’s blind spot, a warning LED in the housing of the appropriate door mirror illuminates. If the driver activates the indicator to change lanes, the LED blinks rapidly to warn the driver;
• Audi active lane assist: uses the front camera to detect lane markings at speeds of 65 km/h and above. If the Audi RS 4 approaches a lane marking without the driver having previously indicated, the electromechanical steering provides an adjustment to bring the vehicle back into its lane. Using the MMI system, the driver can determine whether this system should be active at all times or only before the lane marking is crossed. As an option, the driver can choose to have steering wheel vibrations as a warning signal;
• Collision avoidance assist: activated when the RS 4 needs to avoid an obstacle to avert a collision. Using data from the front camera, the ACC and radar sensors, ‘avoidance assist’ can calculate the distance of the car ahead, its width and degree of offset. The brakes are then briefly applied to alert the driver of the potential danger and, once the driver starts steering, the system provides ‘support with the necessary lane changes with controlled interventions to the power steering’;
• Rear cross-traffic assist: when reversing at low speeds, rear cross-traffic assist uses the rear radar sensors to detect approaching traffic. If approaching traffic is detected which may cross the vehicle’s path, the driver receives warnings (visual, acoustic and a brief, jolting application of the brakes);
• Turning assist: active at speeds from 2 km/h to 10 km/h, ‘turning assist’ operates once the driver activates the right-hand turn signal (for RHD vehicles) and can monitor oncoming traffic. In hazardous situations, the brakes are applied to bring the vehicle to rest;
• Exit warning: activated when the vehicle stopped moving, ‘exit warning’ warns occupants if vehicles are approaching from behind by illuminating red fibre optics in the door-opening mechanism as the doors are opened;
• Multi-collision brake: after a collision, multi-collision brake provides ‘controlled application of the brakes’ to reduce vehicle speed and reduce both the likelihood and severity of subsequent collisions;
• High beam assist: automatically switches between low and high beam headlights for improved visibility, using a sensor to determine when it is safe to do so (i.e. without dazzling other drivers); and,
• Attention assist: monitors driver behaviour and issues a warning if the driver is assessed to be ‘inattentive’.

The Audi B9 RS 4 also has an ‘active bonnet’ which deploys pyrotechnic charges in the event of a pedestrian collision to raise the height of the bonnet and locks it in position to provide clearance over ‘hard points’ in the engine bay. In doing so, the likely severity of the pedestrian’s impact is reduced.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the related Audi B9 A4 received a five star safety rating which included a 90 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 87 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the frontal offset test, protection of the driver’s head, thighs and feet were rated as good, though lower leg protection was rated as adequate and chest protection as marginal.

Features: Audi B9 RS 4 Avant

Standard features for the Audi B9 RS 4 Avant are expected to include 19-inch forged alloy wheels, a 180 watt sound system which has ten speakers, a subwoofer and six-channel amplifier, digital radio tuner (DAB+), MMI navigation plus which included a seven-inch high-resolution colour display with 3D maps, integrated voice control, live traffic updates, a CD/DVD player, two SDXC card readers and 10 GB flash memory for media storage, ‘Audi connect’ (in-car Wi-Fi hotspot), Bluetooth interface with music streaming, ‘Audi music interface’ with two USB inputs and auxiliary input socket, Audi smartphone interface for Apple or Android smartphone integration, power adjustable front sports seats with pneumatic adjustment of the side bolsters, driver’s seat massage and memory functions, Fine Nappa leather upholstery, three-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control with braking, LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a leather wrapped steering wheel with gearshift paddles, 40:20:40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking with proximity key, push-button start, power adjustable and heated door mirrors with folding function, kerb view function for the passenger side door mirror on reverse, an auto-dimming interior rear view mirror, power windows, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, map lights, ambient lighting, tyre pressure loss indicator, floor mats, rear privacy glass, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

As standard, the Audi B9 RS 4 will be fitted with Audi’s ‘virtual cockpit’, a configurable 12.3-inch high-resolution colour display in place of the instrument cluster. The Audi RS 4 will also be equipped with the ‘Audi parking system plus front and rear’ which consists of front and rear parking sensors, a surround view camera system which provides a 360 degree view of the vehicle, and a visual display.

Related links

• Audi Media: the new Audi RS 4 Avant (September 2017)

Overview

Released in May 2006, the Audi B7 RS4 was initially available as sedan, with Avant (wagon) models following in October 2006. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, the Audi RS4 was powered by a 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed manual transmission and drove all four wheels via Audi’s quattro system.

4.2 FSI V8 engine

The B7 RS4 was powered by Audi’s BNS engine which had a two-piece, closed-deck cylinder block, die-forged crankshaft, split connecting rods, forged aluminium pistons, chain-driven double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder actuated by roller rocker arms, variable intake and exhaust valve timing (over a range of 42 crank angle degrees), direct fuel injection (Audi’s ‘Fuel Stratified Injection’, or FSI) and a compression ratio of 12.5:1.

Dimensions and body

Compared to the related Audi B7 S4 , the RS4 was 3 mm longer (at 4589 mm), 35 mm wider (1816 mm), the same height (1415 mm) and had the same length wheelbase (2648 mm). To increase body stiffness over the standard Audi B7 A4 and B7 S4 , the RS4 had laser beam welding of the major seams within the steel body shell.

Suspension

The Audi RS4 had four-link front suspension and double wishbone rear suspension, but also featured Audi’s Dynamic Ride Control (‘DRC’) suspension system which used a fluid hydraulic linkage between diagonally opposed front and rear suspension dampers to minimise body roll and pitch.

quattro

The B7 RS4’s quattro system utilised a third-generation Torsen T-3 centre differential which provided a default front to rear torque split of 40:60. If traction was lost, however, up to 80 per cent of the engine’s torque could be directed to the front or rear axle. Furthermore, the RS4 was also fitted with front and rear electronic differential locks which could brake individual wheels to transfer torque across the open differential to the opposing wheel.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi B7 RS4 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Audi B7 RS4 had two-piece, cross-drilled, radially ventilated and floating cast iron brake discs secured to aluminium alloy disc hubs. Furthermore, the 365 mm by 34 mm front discs were fitted with Brembo eight-opposed-piston calipers and 324 mm by 22 mm rear discs with Lucas-Girling TRW single-piston floating calipers.

Features

Standard features for the Audi B7 RS4 included 19-inch alloy wheels, a ten speaker stereo with six-stack CD player and MP3-compatibility, dual zone climate control air conditioning, DVD-based satellite navigation system with TV tuner, Recaro front seats, leather seats, front seats with active bolsters, cruise control, directional bi-xenon headlights with washers, front and rear fog lamps, front and rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, split and folding rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, height adjustable front seats, courtesy lamps, trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring, an alarm and immobiliser.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Audi B7 RS4

Overview

Released in February 2013, the Audi B7 RS4 Avant was a high-performance wagon. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, the four-wheel drive RS4 Avant was powered by a 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to a seven-speed ‘S Tronic’ double-clutch transmission which could be operated via steering wheel gearshift paddles.

4.2 FSI V8: CFSA engine

The B8 RS4 Avant was powered by Audi’s CFSA engine which was shared with the Audi 8T RS5 Coupe . Effectively replacing the BNS engine which powered the Audi B7 RS4 , the CFSA engine had a two-piece, closed-deck cylinder block, a die-forged crankshaft, split connecting rods, forged aluminium pistons, chain-driven double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder actuated by roller rocker arms, direct fuel injection (Audi’s ‘Fuel Stratified Injection’ or FSI) and a compression ratio of 11.0:1.

With its launch control function, the RS4 Avant could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and its top speed was electronically-limited to 250 km/h (though this could be increased to 280 km/h on request).

Dimensions

Compared to the Audi B7 RS4 , the B8 RS4 Avant was 130 mm longer (at 4719 mm), 34 mm wider (1850 mm), 72 mm lower (1416 mm) and had a 165 mm longer wheelbase (2813 mm).

Suspension and steering

The RS4 Avant had five-link front suspension with upper and lower wishbones and track-controlled trapezoidal link rear suspension; compared to the related B8 A4 Avant , however, the RS4 Avant body was lowered by 20 mm and the suspension included stiffer shock absorbers and thicker stabiliser bars. Audi’s ‘Dynamic Ride Control’ (DRC) was available as an extra-cost option for the RS4 Avant. With DRC, diagonally-opposed pairs of shock absorbers are linked by hydraulic lines and a central valve. When cornering at speed, the valves could regulate the oil flow in the shock absorber of the deflected outside front wheel almost immediately, providing greater support and reducing lateral lift. DRC also included three selectable damping settings: comfort, auto and dynamic.

The RS4 Avant had an electromechanical power steering system with a ratio of 16.3:1.

quattro system

The Audi B8 RS4’s ‘quattro’ four-wheel drive system included a self-locking ‘Crown Gear’ centre differential. In normal conditions, the system provided a 40:60 front:rear torque split. If traction was lost, however, up to 85 per cent of the engine’s torque could be directed to the rear axle, and up to 70 per cent to the front axle. The quattro system also included open front and rear differentials with electronic differential locks; if the quattro system anticipated that the inside wheels may lose traction when cornering, these wheels could be individually braked to enable cross-axle torque transfers. The RS4 Avant was also fitted with a ‘sport differential’ which actively distributed power between the rear wheels to minimise understeer.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi RS4 Avant included dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, trailer stability control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The RS4 Avant had 365 mm by 34 mm ventilated front brake discs with eight-piston monoblock calipers and 324 mm by 22 mm rear brake discs with single-piston floating calipers.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , the related Audi B8 A4 1.8 TFSI received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 34.45 out of 37. Under Euro NCAP’s updated testing regime, these results were subsequently revised for a five star safety rating which included a 93 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 84 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, there was a slight risk of serious chest and leg injury for the driver. In the side impact and pole tests, however, maximum points were awarded.

Features

Standard features for the Audi RS4 Avant included 19-inch forged alloy wheels with 265/35 R19 tyres, an 180 watt sound system with ten speakers, a six-channel amplifier, CD/DVD player, 20 GB hard drive for music storage, MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/SDHC cards), Audi’s MMI navigation plus system with seven-inch colour display, three-zone climate control air conditioning, contoured ‘S’ sports seats, Fina Nappa leather upholstery, cruise control, contoured front sports seats finished in black leather and Alcantara, power adjustable and heated front seats, directional xenon headlights, daytime LED running lights, LED tail-lights, front and rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a flat-bottom steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, power folding mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a power-operated tailgate, trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring and an immobiliser.

RS4 Avant Nogaro selection

In 2014, limited-run RS4 ‘Nogaro selection’ editions were released to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Audi Avant RS2. Visually, the Nogaro selection editions could be identified by their 20-inch 5-V-spoke alloy wheels with 265/30 R20 tyres, Nogaro blue pearl effect paint finish, high-gloss black treatments for the single frame grille and window trims, and matt black roof rails.

Inside, the seats for the RS4 Nogaro selection had Alcantara centre panels and black Valcona leather side sections. Other features included black leather armrests with contrasting blue stitching, black leather with blue stitching for the steering wheel rim and gear selector lever boot, black or Nogaro blue Alcantara for the door trim inserts and black or Nogaro blue piping for the black floor mats.

The RS4 Nogaro selection was a custom order vehicle with a maximum of five to be exported to Australia.

Related links

• Press Kit: Audi B8 RS4 Avant (February 2013)
• Specifications: Audi B8 RS4 Avant (February 2013)
• Technical data: Audi B8 RS4 Avant (February 2013)
• Wikipedia.org: Audi B8 RS4

Overview

Released in November 2000, the Audi B5 Series II (B5.II) RS4 Avant was a high-performance wagon. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, the Audi RS4 Avant was powered by a 2.7-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed manual transmission and drove all four wheels via Audi’s quattro system.

ASJ/AZR 2.7 biturbo V6 engine

The B5 RS 4 Avant was powered by Audi’s ASJ and AZR engines which were related to the AZB and AGB engines which powered the Audi B5 S4 . The ASJ and AZR engines had a cast iron block, die-forged steel crankshaft, forged pistons, cast aluminium alloy cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, five valves per cylinder actuated by hydraulic tappets, variable intake camshaft timing (over a range of 22 crank angle degrees), a compression ratio of 9.0:1 and a maximum engine speed of 7200 rpm. Significantly, the ASJ and AZR engines were fitted with parallel Borg Warner K04 turbochargers which provided peak boost pressure of 1.2 bar; side-mounted air-to-air intercoolers were also used to condense the intake air.

While the ASJ engine complied with Euro II emissions standards, the AZR engine complied with Euro III emissions standards and was fitted with Euro On-Board Diagnosis (EOBD).

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to the related Audi B5 S4 Avant , the RS4 Avant was 37 mm longer (at 4525 mm), 66 mm wider (1799 mm), 4 mm taller (1400 mm) and had the same length wheelbase (2607 mm); the drag coefficient was 0.34 Cd.

The B5 RS4 had four-link front suspension and double wishbone rear suspension.

quattro

The B5 RS4 Avant was fitted with a fourth generation permanent four-wheel drive quattro system which utilised a T-2 Torsen centre differential. In normal conditions, the system provided a 50:50 front:rear torque split. However, the front and rear axles were fitted with electronic differential locks which could apply the brakes to spinning wheels – at speeds of up to 80 km/h – with the effect of locking the differential and transferring torque to the opposing axle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi RS4 Avant included dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain airbags for front occupants, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Brakes

The Audi B5 RS4 had 360 mm by 32 mm radially vented front brake discs with double-piston floating calipers and 312 mm by 22 mm rear discs with single piston floating calipers.

Features

Standard features for the Audi B5 RS4 Avant included 18-inch alloy wheels with 255/35 ZR18 high performance tyres, a six speaker Bose stereo with a six-disc CD changer, climate control air conditioning, combination leather/Alcantara Recaro front seats, cruise control, front fog lights, xenon headlights, rear parking sensors, split and folding rear seats, a combination leather/Alcantara steering wheel, remote central locking, powered front windows, power mirrors, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, Alcantara roof lining, a powered sunroof, trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser

For Australia, all RS4 Avants featured a ‘Brilliant Black’ paint finish with a silver leather and Alcantara interior combination. Only fifty vehicles were delivered to Australia.

Related links

• Technical Specifications: Audi B5 RS4 (February 2001)
• Wikipedia.org: Audi B5 RS4

Recalls: Audi B8 RS4

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Audi B8 RS4

No recall information is available for the Audi B8 RS4. To search for recalls of Audi models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Audi.

Problems and faults: Audi B8 RS4

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Carbon deposits (build-up) on intake valves

• Audi’s naturally aspirated, direct injected petrol engines (such as the RS4’s 4.2 FSI) are considered susceptible to accumulating carbon deposits (or build up) on the intake valves. In these direct injection petrol engines, carbon deposits may accumulate on the stem and throat of the intake valve due to:
  1. the vaporisation of oil which is not trapped by the oil separator; or
  2. unburned fuel and exhaust gases that escape past the piston rings and enter the crankcase (‘blow-by’).

  Since direct injection engines do not spray fuel on the backside of the intake valves, the detergent properties of the fuel cannot remove the carbon build up (as occurs in port injected engines). Symptoms of carbon deposits on the intake valve include difficulty starting the vehicle (hard starting), misfiring and misfire engine codes and reduced engine performance. Potentially, these deposits can result in damage to the catalytic converter and, for turbocharged engines, the turbocharger itself if bits of the deposit break off and enter the exhaust. To remove the carbon deposits, the intake must be removed and the valves cleaned manually. To reduce the incidence of carbon deposits, a common aftermarket measure is the fitment of an oil vapor catch can. The catch can receives dirty air from the crankcase via the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, filters it and returns it to the intake manifold via the PCV port.

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Audi B9 RS4

2019 model year Audi B9 RS 4: shock absorber failure

In June 2019, recall campaign 40O6 was issued for Audi B9 RS 4 vehicles because the shock absorber may fail and cause separation of suspension components. If the vehicle was in motion, the driver may lose control and this would pose a hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17595.

2018-21 Audi B9 RS4: seatbelt warning may operate occasionally

In July 2021, recall campaign 90P5 was issued for 2018-21 Audi B9 RS4 vehicles. The seatbelt warning (acoustic warning tone and visual display) may operate occasionally, rather than continuously, in circumstances such as a seatbelt not fastened or unfastened while the vehicle was moving. If the warning did not sound continuously, a seatbelt may be unbuckled without the driver being informed. In the event of a collision, this condition increased the risk of injury to vehicle occupants. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-001650.

2019-21 Audi B9 RS4: rear axle nuts could break and cause loss of control

In September 2021, recall campaign 42L1 was issued for 2019-21 Audi B9 RS4 vehicles. Some nuts fitted to the rear axle assembly did not meet manufacturing specifications and could therefore break. A broken nut may lead to increased movement between the wishbone and hub carrier, and a change in the wheel alignment on the rear axle. These conditions could cause sudden and uncontrollable movement of the rear axle, thereby increasing the risk of injury and death to vehicle occupants and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-001665.

2019-21 Audi B9 RS4: misalignment of rear axle from previous recall

In March 2022, recall campaign 42L5 was issued for 2019-21 Audi B9 RS4 vehicles. The previous replacement of the rear axle clamping nuts as part of recall 42L1 may have caused misalignment of the rear axle assembly; this could result in excessive wear to the rear tyres, and may result in a sudden flat tyre and subsequent loss of vehicle control. These circumstances increased the risk of a collision and injury to vehicle occupants and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-005076.

Problems and faults: Audi B9 RS4

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Audi B9 RS4

No information regarding common problems and faults for the Audi B9 RS4 is currently available.

Recalls: Audi B5 RS4

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Audi B5 RS4

2000-01 Audi B5 RS4 with three-spoke steering wheel: Takata airbag recall

In November 2021, recall campaign 69CJ was issued for 2000-01 Audi B5 RS4 vehicles. The propellant in the gas generator of the Takata NADI 5-AT airbag that was fitted to certain vehicles with three-spoke steering wheels may degrade over time. As a result, the driver’s airbag may deploy with reduced force and this could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants in the event of a collision. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-004987.

Problems and faults: Audi B5 RS4

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Soft alloy wheels: Audi B5 RS4

• Pre-2002 models of the RS4 were fitted with ‘soft’ alloy wheels that could deform or bend. The part number for the original, ‘soft’ wheels was 8D0 601 025 T; the later, ‘hard’ wheels had the part number 8D0 601 025 AE.

Recalls: Audi B7 RS4

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Audi B7 RS4

Audi B7 RS4: Takata airbag recall

In December 2018, recall campaign 69R7 was issued for Audi B7 RS4 vehicles. These vehicles had Takata front passenger airbags and the propellant wafers in these airbags could absorb moisture over time. In the event of airbag deployment, excessive internal pressure could cause the metal inflator housing to rupture and metallic fragments could be projected through the airbag cushion towards vehicle occupants – these fragments posed a risk of serious injury and fatality. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/17210.

Problems and faults: Audi B7 RS4

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Audi B7 RS4: carbon deposits (build-up) on intake valves

Audi’s naturally aspirated, direct injected petrol engines (such as the RS4’s 4.2 FSI) are considered susceptible to accumulating carbon deposits (or build up) on the intake valves. In these direct injection petrol engines, carbon deposits may accumulate on the stem and throat of the intake valve due to:

1. the vaporisation of oil which is not trapped by the oil separator; or
2. unburned fuel and exhaust gases that escape past the piston rings and enter the crankcase (‘blow-by’).

Since direct injection engines do not spray fuel on the backside of the intake valves, the detergent properties of the fuel cannot remove the carbon build up (as occurs in port injected engines). Symptoms of carbon deposits on the intake valve include difficulty starting the vehicle (hard starting), misfiring and misfire engine codes and reduced engine performance. Potentially, these deposits can result in damage to the catalytic converter and, for turbocharged engines, the turbocharger itself if bits of the deposit break off and enter the exhaust. To remove the carbon deposits, the intake must be removed and the valves cleaned manually. To reduce the incidence of carbon deposits, a common aftermarket measure is the fitment of an oil vapor catch can. The catch can receives dirty air from the crankcase via the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, filters it and returns it to the intake manifold via the PCV port.

RS4: Dynamic Ride Control failure

For Audi’s ‘Dynamic Ride Control’, the shock absorbers seals can deteriorate, causing the shock absorbers to lose their pressure. To fix, the DRC shock absorbers must be replaced or new seals fitted; specialist tools are required to replace the DRC shock absorbers and re-pressurise the system. While Dynamic Ride Control can fail without warning, a knocking noise from the suspension may indicate that the main valve has failed. In some cases, owners have replaced the DRC shocks with standard coil springs and dampers.

Audi B7 RS4: leak in vacuum system #1

In September 2006, Audi issued technical service bulletin 2012844/1 for 2006-07 Audi B7 RS4 vehicles for the following symptoms:

• Illumination of the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp); and,
• DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) such as P2015 and/or P2020.

According to the service bulletin, these symptoms could be caused by a vacuum leak at the vacuum supply hose fitting for the Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) valve N316. The vacuum supply hose fitting was located underneath the centre of the intake manifold.

To fix, the vacuum hoses were to be replaced if damaged. Furthermore, an improved hose clamp (# N 102 105 01, replacing # 079 133 773) was to be used which had a larger diameter to prevent damage to the vacuum hose when the clamp was crimped.

Audi B7 RS4: leak in vacuum system #2

In June 2008, Audi issued technical service bulletin 2017521/1 for Audi B7 RS4 and RS4 Cabriolet vehicles for the following symptoms:

• Poor engine performance because of inoperative intake manifold tumble flaps or air filter box power flap;
• Illumination of the MIL;
• DTCs such as P2004, P2005, P2006, P2007, P2070 or P2071 (intake manifold tumble flaps adjustment implausible signal);
• Rattling noises from the rear of the vehicle due to the exhaust flaps rattling during the catalyst heating phase; and,
• Possible fault entry for ‘leak diagnosis pump’.

According to the service bulletin, the vacuum level could become too low because of:

• Damaged, torn or kinked vacuum hoses; or,
• Loose vacuum hose connections.

Vacuum leaks would slightly decrease engine performance because of the lack of additional air entering the engine at high rpm. Vacuum leaks did not, however, cause stalling.

Audi B7 RS4: low-pressure fuel system sensor

In March 2008, Audi issued technical service bulletin 2015106/4 for 2007-08 Audi B7 RS4 vehicles. In these vehicles, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) may illuminate and the following diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may be logged –

• P310B: low-pressure fuel system regulation, fuel pressure outside tolerance; and,
• P129F: low-pressure fuel system, pressure too high.

According to the service bulletin, this condition may be caused by fuel intrusion into the low-pressure system fuel pressure sensor (G410), such that a false signal that was out of tolerance was sent to the controller. Subsequently, improvements were made to the G410 fuel pressure sensor.

Audi B7 RS4: Other problems and faults

• Suspension knock: Knocking noises from the front suspension when the steering is on full lock are likely due to a worn control arm.
• Tone rings: The anti-lock braking system (ABS) may activate unnecessarily under normal to light braking pressure due to cracks in tone/exciter rings (rings on the outer CV shaft that measure wheel rotation).
• Brake judder: Brake judder may be caused by a build-up of brake dust on the brake discs. To fix, the discs must be skimmed or machined.
• Coolant leak: When the oil filter is removed, the oil cooler is susceptible to turning – this may damage the coolant lines and cause a coolant leak.
• Clutch life: clutch life for the Audi RS4 generally exceeds 60,000 kms.
• Oil consumption: depending on how the Audi RS4 is driven, oil consumption can be up to 2 litres per 1000 km. Hence, regular oil checks are recommended.
• Door ajar warning: Water may leak into a wiring harness near the A-pillar, causing problems with the remote central locking, power windows, issuing a ‘door ajar’ warning when the doors are shut and the interior lights staying on.

Released in February 2013, the Audi B8 RS4 Avant was a high-performance wagon. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, the four-wheel drive RS4 Avant was powered by a 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to a seven-speed ‘S Tronic’ double-clutch transmission which could be operated via steering wheel gearshift paddles… Read full Audi B8 RS4 review

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The Audi B9 RS 4 Avant was a high-performance, compact executive wagon. Manufactured in Ingolstadt, Germany, the all-wheel drive Audi B9 RS 4 was powered by a 2.9-litre biturbo V6 petrol engine that was mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Australian deliveries of the Audi B9 RS 4 commenced in the second quarter of 2018… Read full Audi B9 RS4 review

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