Model year guide

2004 Audi S4

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2004 Audi S4 is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 24 on record.

2004 Audi S4 — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2004 Audi S4 at a glance

Safety recalls1
Owner complaints29
Combined17 mpg
Typical price$6,608

Free: specs, open recalls for that exact car, build sheet and fair price.

2004 Audi S4 recalls 1

Exterior Lighting:headlights NHTSA Campaign #05V096000 · 15/03/2005

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF XENON HEADLAMP COATING DEGRADATION OVER TIME. THE LUMINOUS TRANSMITTANCE OF THE HEADLAMP MAY DECREASE OVER A PERIOD OF TIME.

Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT XENON HEADLAMP REFLECTORS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 11, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834.

Source: U.S. NHTSA. A recall applies to a model year, but only a VIN check shows whether a specific car has had the repair done.

2004 Audi S4 common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 29 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Engine And Engine Cooling
Check coolant level and color, look for leaks, and confirm the engine reaches normal temperature without overheating.
Engine
Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Exterior Lighting
Confirm all headlights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights work, with no moisture inside the housings.
Power Train
Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.
Tires
Check tread depth, the DOT age date, and that all four tires match with even wear. Look for bulges or cracks.

2004 Audi S4 MPG & running costs

Combined17 mpg
City15 mpg
Highway21 mpg
Est. annual fuel cost$4,475

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov, averaged across trims.

What's a 2004 Audi S4 worth?

Low
$4,200
Typical price
$6,608
High
$8,700

From 24 comparable 2004 Audi S4 listings.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 2004 Audi S4 costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$22,375
Fuel only$22,375
Per mile$0.30

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.

2004 Audi S4 trims & engines on record

Trims
quattro
Engines
4.2L 8-cyl 344 hp

2004 Audi S4 vehicles on record

Other Audi S4 model years

2004 Audi S4 — frequently asked questions

Does the 2004 Audi S4 have any safety recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2004 Audi S4. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer. Whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

What are the most common problems with the 2004 Audi S4?

Based on 29 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are engine and engine cooling, engine, electrical system.

What gas mileage does the 2004 Audi S4 get?

The U.S. EPA rates the 2004 Audi S4 at about 17 mpg combined (15 city / 21 highway).

How much is a 2004 Audi S4 worth?

Comparable 2004 Audi S4 listings run roughly $4,200–$8,700, typically around $6,608 (from 24 vehicles).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.