1996-2001 Audi A4: Reliability

Updated: 11/23/08

1998 Audi A4 2.8 4-door sedan
2001 Audi A4
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1996-2001 Audi A4 

  • Price Range:  $1,600 - $10,300
CG Rating

45

out of 100

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Our reliability study for this generation Audi A4 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Audi A4 .

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Brakes: The ABS (anti-lock brakes) may activate unnecessarily under normal to light application due to cracks in tone wheels. (1996-05)

Brakes: Jump starting a dead battery, or charging the battery with more than 16 volts, may blow the fuse to the ABS system. (1996)

Cruise control: The cruise control may not hold the set speed requiring replacement of the vacuum servo. (1996)

Dashboard lights: The check-engine light may come on with less than three gallons in the fuel tank. This can lead to a lean misfire. (1996)

Dashboard lights: Using cheap gas can cause carbon buildup on the valves, pistons, and combustion chamber, which will cause poor idling and illuminate the check-engine light. (1996)

Engine misfire: If the battery is disconnected, the engine may idle rough or lack power requiring recalibration of the throttle valve control module. (1997)

Fuel gauge: The fuel gauge may not register full, due to a bad electrical ground connection. (1996)

Hard starting: The engine speed (crankshaft position) sensor can come loose causing the engine to crank, but not start. (1997-98)

Rough idle: Dirty throttle body bore and throttle control module commonly cause rough or low idle. (1997-01)

Sunroof/moonroof: Broken sunroof slides may cause binding noise. Each can be replaced individually. (1999-2000)

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $1,065
Alternator $615
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $1,540
Brakes $280
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $910
Constant Velocity Joints $710
Exhaust System $730
Radiator $640
Shocks and/or Struts $880
Timing Chain or Belt $280
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