2018 Audi RS7 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2018 Audi RS7: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Audi RS7 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Audi RS7 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2018 Audi RS7?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Audi RS7, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the warning light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes from the vehicle's computer; these codes are crucial for identifying specific problems. After that, check the levels of essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also cause the light to illuminate. Additionally, assess the condition of your battery, since a weak battery may lead to electrical issues that trigger the check engine light. Finally, take note of any other warning lights on the dashboard, as they can provide further clues to the underlying issue. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 Audi RS7?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2018 Audi RS7, it can indicate several common issues that DIY enthusiasts should be aware of. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. More complex issues may involve the oxygen sensor, which monitors exhaust gases and can fail over time, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Another potential culprit is the catalytic converter; if it becomes clogged or inefficient, it can trigger the check engine light and may require professional attention. Additionally, the mass airflow sensor, responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine, can malfunction, affecting performance. Spark plugs and ignition coils are also critical components; worn or faulty versions can cause engine misfires, which will illuminate the check engine light. Lastly, problems with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, such as a clogged valve, can lead to similar warnings. While some of these issues can be diagnosed and addressed at home, others may necessitate the expertise of a qualified mechanic to ensure proper resolution and prevent further damage to your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2018 Audi RS7?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2018 Audi RS7, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates potential issues with your engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring this light can lead to escalating problems, including severe engine damage and costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the implications of a lit check engine light is essential. Continuing to drive your vehicle under these conditions can compromise not only the engine's performance but also your safety on the road. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you can diagnose the underlying issues, prevent further damage, and maintain the efficiency and reliability of your Audi RS7. Taking swift action not only safeguards your investment but also enhances your driving experience, making it imperative to prioritize this warning signal.

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2018 Audi RS7 Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions