1996-2001 Audi A4: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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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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