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.

Air conditioner: The air conditioning may not cool sufficiently and/or the outside temperature reading may be wrong due to a poor crimp connection or faulty outside temperature sensor. (2005)

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

Engine noise: Squealing and/or chirping from the serpentine drive belt caused by damaged upper idler pulley, which must be replaced. (2004)

Engine noise: Poor 4.2L engine performance may be accompanied by a hissing sound caused by a vacuum leak at the intake manifold. This may require re-tightening the bolts, replacing the gasket or replacing the gasket along with applying sealer around the intake ports. (2004)

Steering problems: The power steering may be noisy and feel like it is skipping and, if there are no leaks, the reservoir or pump may need to be replaced. (2004)

Suspension problems: The automatic leveling system may quit working due to problems with the sensors, which may need to be replaced if they are not the latest version (having a black dot on them). (2004-05)

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.

2006 A8: A wiring harness condition could inappropriately deactivate passenger-side front airbag, even though warning indicators are properly illuminated.

2006-07: Where a weak battery exists, it is possible that a low voltage condition could cause the air bag control unit to improperly set a fault code. If this occurs, the passenger side frontal air bag will become deactivated. Dealers will update the air bag control module software.