2023 Audi S8 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2023 Audi S8: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2023 Audi S8 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 2023 Audi S8 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 2023 Audi S8?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2023 Audi S8, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest solutions. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional warning indicators that might provide further insight into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to access error codes that can direct you to the specific problem. While you're at it, visually inspect the engine bay for any signs of damage, such as disconnected hoses or leaks, which could indicate a more significant issue. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—like oil and coolant—are adequate, as low levels can also cause the check engine light to activate. Finally, consider performing a complete drive cycle; sometimes, this can reset the light if the issue was temporary. By following these initial steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and determine whether further professional assistance is needed.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2023 Audi S8?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2023 Audi S8, it signals that there may be underlying issues that need immediate attention. One of the most common culprits is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and trigger the warning light. More serious problems could involve the oxygen sensor, which is essential for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture; a malfunction here can lead to decreased engine efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, the catalytic converter plays a critical role in reducing harmful emissions, and any inefficiency or failure in this component can also cause the check engine light to activate. Another potential issue is the mass airflow sensor, which measures the air entering the engine; if it malfunctions, it can significantly impact engine performance. Worn or faulty spark plugs can lead to engine misfires, which are another common reason for the check engine light to come on. Similarly, issues with ignition coils can exacerbate misfires, further complicating the situation. It is crucial to address these problems promptly to avoid further damage and ensure optimal vehicle performance. If the check engine light is on, seeking a professional diagnosis is highly recommended to identify and resolve the specific issue effectively.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 Audi S8?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Audi S8, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light indicates that there may be a significant issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system, which, if ignored, could escalate into more severe problems, including costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. Continuing to drive with the check engine light on can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and potential engine damage, ultimately compromising the reliability of your Audi S8. Given that modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems, it is advisable to have your vehicle assessed by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. This proactive approach not only helps identify the root cause of the issue but also mitigates the risk of further complications, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition and saving you money in the long run. Therefore, addressing the check engine light promptly is essential for maintaining the performance and safety of your Audi S8.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.