The Audi brand traces its roots all the way back to 1909 with the founding of Audi Automobilwerke by automotive pioneer August Horch. After a series of corporate ownership changes and restructuring throughout the years, Audi has persevered and emerged as one the most recognizable names in the automotive landscape. The German automaker is renowned for their luxury and performance vehicles and, perhaps most famously, for having introduced the first high-performance all wheel drive sports car to the world with the Audi Quattro. This heritage continues into the present day and Audi currently manufactures many of the most popular luxury vehicle models in the world. One of their best selling and most popular models over the past 25 years is the “A4”, a compact 4-door sedan, which first hit the streets back in 1995.
As discussed in previous articles, sometimes offering luxury and performance at a competitive price point can lead to both complexity and cut corners, which can reduce overall reliability, cause unexpected issues and leave both you and your wallet occasionally stranded. Audi’s motto is “Progress through Technology”, but being an innovator can sometimes mean your vehicles are the testing ground for figuring out glitches in real world scenarios. Despite the A4’s popularity, the enjoyable driving experience it offers and generally good reliability record, it has suffered from specific issues over the years and if you own or are considering purchasing a used Audi A4, it is important to be aware of the recurring problems, maintenance needs and repairs so that you can keep your German car running at peak performance and budget properly to keep your vehicle on the road. Our guide below covers the most common issues that modern (2012 and newer) Audi A4 owners have encountered.
High-Tech Luxuries & Electrical Gremlins
The modern Audi A4 offers drivers and passengers a wide range of high-tech luxury features for a refined driving experience. These amenities require complex computer and electrical systems and things don’t always work exactly as they should. Some of the most common electrical gremlins that A4 owners have reported include issues with faulty instrument cluster digital displays, failed circuit boards in the engine management system, electrical interferences that may result in high pitched sounds, problems with the brake lights, broken windscreen wiper motors, faulty turn signal flasher relays, and malfunctioning window motors and regulators that can make your windows inoperable. Should you experience any of these issues, a knowledgeable local Audi mechanic can guide you to the most effective and cost efficient solutions.
Interior Quirks
Aside from the occasional electrical issues, there are some common quirks with the A4’s interior and body that many owners have reported. One recurring issue is for the glovebox to not open and close smoothly due to the joints that control its movement wearing out. Most times, simply applying a little lubricant to the joints can immediately solve the problem.
Another area where Audi A4’s sometimes develop issues is with water drainage, which can lead to water pooling inside the passenger compartment and potentially issues with electrical systems. One common drainage issue is caused by an outflow pipe located under the battery becoming clogged with leaves or other debris. Keeping this drainage system clear can help avoid this water overflow from happening. If buying a used A4, keep an eye out for signs of water marks on the carpets and lower areas of the interior for any signs of stains or damage. Owners also have reported that the sunroof drains can clog, which leads to water seeping into areas it should not and sometimes damaging the sunroof control modules. Again, keeping these drains clear and possibly replacing the sunroof’s rubber seals can help to avoid unwanted short circuits.
Bumps, Squeaks & Brake Issues
Audi’s are known for their ‘autobahn-inspired’ road manners and much of that can be attributed to their precisely engineered suspension and brake systems. While generally reliable, some Audi mechanics and owners have noted that suspension components can wear out faster than expected for comparable vehicles, so it’s important to pay attention for any unusual bouncing or squeaking when driving and to not procrastinate replacing parts when advised to do so by your mechanic. If a part of your suspension breaks, you could lose control of your vehicle when you least expect it.
The primary brake issues that are noted are around a faulty control module for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that can disable your A4’s ability to stop efficiently in slippery road conditions and possibly lock up a wheel under heavy braking. Should you experience a wheel locking up when braking hard in the wet, quickly pump on the brakes with your foot to minimize your stopping distance. The other commonly occurring fault is with a switch in the braking system that fails and leaves the dashboard brake warning light permanently turned on. You will almost certainly notice the warning light and it can usually be resolved quickly with a low cost part.
Potential Powertrain Problems
While Audi’s engines offer noteworthy performance and ever increasing efficiency, many owners and mechanics have noted common issues to be aware of. One of the most prevalent problems is excessive oil consumption and leaks. Owners should check their oil levels regularly and top off as needed with the recommended oil type between scheduled oil changes. Gaskets, plugs and seals throughout the engine and transmission should also be inspected regularly. Audi A4 drivers have additionally noted unexpected troubles with vacuum leaks when rubber hoses in the engine crack or tear prematurely, which can lead to decreased power & fuel economy, misfires, and issues with turbo boost pressure regulation that could potentially damage your engine.
Other noted engine issues include faulty ignition coils, spark plugs and ignition wires that can lead to engine misfires, problems developing with the cooling system, carbon build-up on the intake side of the engine, broken fuel & water pumps, bad pistons, faults with catalytic converters and oxygen sensors, and timing chain tensioner failures. A trustworthy independent European auto mechanic should be able to help you identify the symptoms of these issues before they develop into problems that could cost you more time and money to address in the future if left unsorted.
If you notice that your Audi’s automatic transmission shifting is particularly stiff or clunky, this is sometimes caused by a software problem that can be resolved by reprogramming the system. However, this could also be indicative of other transmission issues and your should have your Audi mechanic diagnose the issue before determining which course of action to take. We have also seen faulty torque converters causing issues and fluid leaks around the propeller shaft seal in the transmission.
Disappointing Dealership Service Experiences
Perhaps the most common problem that Audi A4 owners run into is subpar repair services from the dealership. When Auto Express conducted a recent owner survey, problems with the dealership repair center were brought up again and again. One reviewer noted, “The sales experience was good, the after care is absolutely the worst. Parts not fitted correctly, wrong parts ordered, I even had my car damaged by the service staff and it is still in the body shop now.” Given the premium prices that dealerships charge to work on vehicles, it is crucial to find a knowledgeable and trustworthy independent Audi mechanic that you can help guide you around the most important maintenance needs to keep your Audi A4 on the road and to help you find cost-effective solutions for unexpected repairs.
