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1996-2001 Audi A4 Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
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.
1996-2001 Audi A4 Reliability
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: Jump starting a dead battery, or charging the battery with more than 16 volts, may blow the fuse to the ABS system. (1996)
Brakes: The ABS (anti-lock brakes) may activate unnecessarily under normal to light application due to cracks in tone wheels. (1996-05)
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
NHTSA Recall History
1996: Horn may work only intermittently, due to insufficient electrical ground contact.
1996-97: A faulty ignition switch could render the car's electrical accessories, like windshield wipers and headlights, inoperable. Dealers will install a new ignition switch with an optimized anchor point free of charge.
1996-97: Discharge of static electricity in low-humidity conditions can activate driver's airbag when driver enters or exits car.
1996-97: The plastic ignition switch housing can fracture causing the ignition key to stick and making certain electrical accessories (windshield wipers, headlights) inoperative.
1997: Rear-seatbelt retractors may not lock properly, or may not remain locked.
1997-99 w/automatic transmission: Control valve in vacuum hose may not open or close fully at temperatures below four degrees (F) under certain conditions; could cause insufficient vacuum to be provided to brake booster.
1998: If engine backfires during cold-start, an air screen loosely seated in airflow meter can become damaged; screen pieces could enter intake system and prevent the throttle plate from returning to its full idle position.
1998-99: Some tie-rod seals may not seal properly; if moisture and/or dust enters swivel mechanism, bearing could wear over time.
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