Most common 2008 Audi S8 problems
Share of the 5 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Audi S8 complaints by model year
Best S8 years: 2008, 2017, 2020. Compare all years →
2008 Audi S8 recalls (1)
Visibility › Sun/moon roof assembly
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles. The sunroof glass on the affected vehicles may not be properly secured to the sunroof frame. As a result, the sunroof glass may detach from the car while driving.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install additional adhesive between the sunroof glass and frame, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in August 4, 2016.
What 2008 Audi S8 owners say
Windows, wipers & sunroof
The contact owns a 2008 Audi S8. The vehicle had previously been serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V415000 (Visibility). The contact stated that while driving at 85 MPH, the sunroof glass detached from the sunroof frame. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was awaiting a callback. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000. Vehicle has been repaired.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 Audi S8. While driving approximately 70 MPH, a sudden booming sound was heard. Through the rearview mirror, the driver could see that the glass sun roof was airborne. After stopping to inspect the vehicle, the driver discovered that the glass sun roof had detached from the roof. The cause of the failure was not determined. Audi of owings mill(9804 reisterstown rd, owings mill, md) was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified. The vehicle was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 16V415000 (visibility). The failure mileage was 140,000.
2008 Audi S8 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.2L 10-cyl | 6-speed automatic | 4WD/AWD | 13 / 19 / 15 |
EPA ratings. Class: Midsize car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2008 Audi S8 a good car?
Based on 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2008 S8 rates average: 75% fewer complaints than a typical year of the S8 at the same age. It is one of the best S8 years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 Audi S8?
The windows, wipers & sunroof — 4 complaints, 80% of all complaints for this model year, most often about sun/moon roof assembly. Next are the fuel & propulsion system (1) and speed control & acceleration (1).
How many recalls does the 2008 Audi S8 have?
There is 1 recall for the 2008 Audi S8, the most recent from June 9, 2016 (sun/moon roof assembly). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Audi S8?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2008, 2017 and 2020. See the full Audi S8 years comparison.
At what mileage do 2008 Audi S8 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 140,000 miles; 25% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.