2010 Audi S4 power train problems
42 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2010 Audi S4 — 70% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Car slammed into different gear, wasn't able to shift into 2nd and threw gearbox malfunction and tpms errors. Thankfully I was near home and able to make it there without an accident or being stranded, but my car is now immobile. I spoke with audi and they said it will likely be a $4k repair…”
filed Apr 3, 2020
“My car flashed gearbox malfunction while driving down interstate I-264 in louisville ky. Car seamed fine for about 2 miles and then suddenly went limp and I had no gears. Had to hit flashers and coast into median. Was almost hit by semi truck. Repair shop could not find anything wrong. Happened…”
filed Oct 23, 2019
“Once car is put into reverse it launches back ? Also in first one put in cost it wants to move practically forward .”
filed Apr 4, 2020
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
This bulletin provides information when, after replacing the mechatronic unit/gearbox, the engine only starts when the button has been pressed twice.
TSB_2041242_3 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jun 22, 2026
Power Train problems in other S4 years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 S4 | 8 | 25% |
| 2012 S4 | 14 | 64% |
| 2011 S4 | 22 | 85% |
| 2006 S4 | 1 | 3% |
| 2005 S4 | 1 | 2% |
| 2004 S4 | 5 | 17% |
| 2000 S4 | 2 | 1% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2010 Audi S4
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.