One of my favorite automakers is Audi; some vehicles just speak to you and others don’t. I’ve liked Audis forever, and I’ve had one for a long time.
The Audi A4 is a nice car all around. It is reliable, secure, and comfy. However, some models have serious flaws that are repeated and can be costly to fix.
In This Article...
Do a lot of Audi A4 troubles exist?
Reliability issues with the Audi A4. 219 complaints from A4 owners span 26 model years. It received a very low overall reliability rating from our PainRankTM methodology due to serious engine and transmission issues.
Are used Audi A4s trustworthy?
Although some owners are having serious issues, there are still remarkably few owner-reported complaints regarding the Audi A4. Most have fewer than 20 out of model years 1996-2020. Overall, the Audi A4 demonstrates that it is a dependable car. In fact, the 2020 Audi A4 is rated overall as the finest among all new premium compact cars tested by Consumer Reports, with an excellent score of 88 (out of 100) and a flawless predicted dependability rating of five (out of five).
Is the Audi A4 a good investment?
Take a close look at the 2020 Audi A4 if you want to purchase your first luxury vehicle. The value for the money is excellent. The new A4 is surprisingly spacious inside and includes many of Audi’s most well-liked technology as standard equipment. The new A4 is an even more tempting entry-level luxury sedan thanks to its smooth, powerful performance. Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive technology is a need for driving in bad weather, even though front-wheel-drive vehicles are acceptable for most drivers.
Audi significantly improved the new A4. The sharper German style of this vehicle will be noticeable to longtime admirers. A brand-new infotainment system with updated software is also included with every level.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Audi A4The Pros
1. Dynamic Turbocharged Motor
The same engine choices are available for the 2020 Audi A4. Standard equipment includes a four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 188 horsepower. Even though it might not look like much power, the A4’s response is rarely a source of driver complaints. While the A4’s all-wheel-drive models have a comparable engine, it has been modified to produce 248 horsepower. This results in an even faster acceleration. The A4 with AWD can accelerate to 60 mph from a complete stop in an astonishing 5.3 seconds.
2. All-Wheel Quattro Drive
The 2020 Audi A4 comes standard with front-wheel drive. However, it makes sense to use Audi’s laudable Quattro AWD system. You’ll always enjoy power being distributed to all four wheels when driving in inclement weather. The added assurance is definitely worthwhile. This AWD system, however, does more than just increase traction in slick weather. Additionally, it gives the A4 a sportier personality when driving. Quattro helps the sedan stay flat and balanced as it navigates corners.
3. A Comfortable Ride with Regular Suspension
The 2020 Audi A4 is a really comfortable vehicle to drive. You’ll like how effectively it absorbs the interstate. Although adaptive suspension is an option, most experts advise keeping with the regular suspension. While fully absorbing harsh impacts, it does not compromise the A4’s dynamic handling. The enhanced ride quality of the A4 will be especially appreciated by your family when you decide to do some long-distance driving. Even cars with summer performance tires are comfortable.
4. Restyled Exterior Design
Audi has significantly improved the A4’s appearance for 2020. The 2018 A4 is substantially more streamlined when compared to last year’s model. The A4 looks better thanks to a revised front fascia and LED headlights. Drivers who like an even sharper appearance might choose the matrix-style LED lighting from Audi. Models with all-wheel drive come standard with the S Line aesthetic package, which includes sporty wheels and a mesh grille that has been darkened. There are a total of 12 color variations available, including the recently released Terra Gray.
Five. High-Performance S4 Model
The 2020 Audi A4 comes in a high-performance version called the S4. It is intended to provide pure driving excitement. The S4 model is propelled by a turbo V6 engine that produces 349 horsepower. You can experience a speedier 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds by upgrading to the S4. Additionally, aggressive suspension adjustment prepares the S4 for the racetrack. Audi gives the S4 variant four chrome exhaust outlets and a trunk-lid spoiler to distinguish it visually.
6. Large and Cozy sufficient for families
A small automobile is what the 2020 Audi A4 is categorized as. Don’t let this truth discourage you, though. The majority of people consider the A4 to be an excellent family transporter. The A4 has a backseat that seems more like a midsize sedan thanks to plenty of legroom. The A4 has a lot of headroom in the back, unlike some of its rivals. Although the front seats are comfortable as is, aggressive drivers will desire the sport seats that are an option.
7. Has Excellent Braking Performance.
Some people neglect to assess the brake system’s performance when looking for a new car. You’ll feel more secure if your braking system is well-designed. The A4 has one of the greatest braking systems in its class. You’ll be grateful for the A4’s excellent brakes if a motorist abruptly cuts you off. The performance tires that are an option improve this car’s stopping power even more. Expect the A4 to stop just as swiftly as some sports vehicles while braking at 60 mph.
8. Stylish, Top-Notch Cabin
The A4’s stylish interior quickly catches the attention of many drivers. A great sense of style permeates it. Many car experts believe the Audi A4’s interior delivers class-leading quality. The A4 has a luxurious interior that is made with high-quality materials and is built to last. The top-of-the-line Prestige trim comes standard with dual-pane acoustic front windows, which further quiet the inside.
9. Lots of Cutting-Edge Technology
The 2020 Audi A4 is likely to impress if you expect the newest and best technologies. Audi unveiled a new iteration of its MMI interface this year. The 8.3-inch infotainment display from last year has been replaced by a larger 10.1-inch screen. You can control many of this system’s features by giving spoken commands because this system comprehends normal language. The digital gauge cluster from Audi’s Virtual Cockpit is still an option. The high-resolution driving maps and customisation options are quite popular with drivers.
10. Intelligent Safety Technology
The safety features offered by Audi are excellent. Your stress levels will decrease if you frequently experience traffic on the freeway thanks to the adaptive cruise control technology. It has a cutting-edge Traffic Jam Assist technology that facilitates accelerating and braking at speeds under 40 mph. Additionally, you’ll appreciate Audi’s Pre Sense system. It keeps an eye out for opportunistic people and other vehicles on the road.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Audi A4The Cons
1. Fuel Economy Is Reduced by Quattro All-Wheel Drive
The Quattro AWD system from Audi can be quite useful. This is particularly true for people who frequently commute in inclement weather. Sadly, choosing the Quattro AWD system reduces fuel efficiency. About 23 mpg is what you can anticipate in the city. Front-wheel drive vehicles, on the other hand, get 27 mpg in the city. Fuel efficiency on the highway is also better.
2. Removal of Manual Transmission Option
Audi made the decision to stop offering the A4 with a manual transmission last year. This knowledge might deter some buyers of a 2020 Audi A4 from doing so. The automatic transmission in the sedan works well in the majority of circumstances, but some test drivers have noticed considerable delay when accelerating. The new Genesis G70, which does have a manual, is an option to the A4.
3. Some trimmings might be quite expensive.
For luxury automobile shoppers on a tight budget, the 2020 Audi A4 is a viable option with an expected starting MSRP of less than $39,000. But some trims are somewhat expensive. The most expensive model in the list, the A4 Prestige, will set you back a lot of cash. The expensive, high-performance S4 model is to be anticipated.
4. Number-based steering
Although the Audi A4 handles nicely, its overall driving experience is diminished by numb steering. The fake steering wheel on the A4 makes it appear a little disjointed from the road. Some individuals will eventually want for a greater sense of control.
5. Conventional Fashion
The outside of the new A4 is much more intriguing. However, some drivers might still think its look is a little too conventional. Upgrade to the S Line aesthetic package if you want more flair than the ordinary A4 has to offer.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
Possibly Genesis’ most entertaining vehicle to date is the G70. Additionally, it offers a great warranty. The Audi A4 is a step more opulent than the Genesis G70 in terms of total luxury. Additionally, Audi provides a more advanced infotainment system for the A4. Furthermore, the back of the A4 has extra area for legs.
The BMW 3 Series has long been praised as the best vehicle in its class. However, this might not be the case anymore. You’ll notice that the Audi A4 offers more value for your money when compared to the 3 Series in terms of its list of standard safety features. Additionally, Audi provides a superior standard infotainment system with the A4.
The 2020 Honda Accord is a mainstream sedan, but it still has a lot of luxury features. However, it still falls short of the superb level of luxury offered by the Audi A4. The Honda Accord does not offer some features, such as a digital gauge cluster that can be customized. Additionally, the Accord does not come with all-wheel drive.
The 2020 Audi A4 is still a fantastic choice if you’re an Audi enthusiast who wants to enjoy luxury for less money. It is even more appealing than before thanks to updated styling and a new infotainment system. The Audi Quattro all-wheel-drive system rewards you with greater performance and better traction even while the regular powerplant is acceptable.
What year Audi A4 is most reliable?
It is generally acknowledged that 2001 is the most dependable year for the Audi A4. The original B5 was produced until this year, and if you can find one with the 1.9 TDI, it’s worth buying. The 1.9 TDI is an extremely dependable engine; some of them have been driven 500,000 miles while receiving routine maintenance and are still on the road.
The 2001 Audi A4’s only drawback is that it lacks some of the more modern equipment seen in more recent models. 2010 is a fantastic year to look at if you’re seeking for something with improved technology. Around that time, Audi was making some excellent vehicles and received the fewest complaints annually.
In terms of dependability, Audi has experienced some ups and downs over the years, but they appear to be returning to the correct track. If you are considering a new A4, I wouldn’t worry about it surviving up to more than 150,000 kilometers.
What Audi A4 years to avoid?
If you’re considering the Audi A4, you should steer clear of 2011 and 2014. Compared to the other years, these had the most complaints. The 2011 A4’s terrible oil consumption is the main issue that has been brought up.
For the 2011 model year, the A4’s oil system became unnecessarily complicated, which caused it to use oil significantly more quickly than other vehicles. As a result, the car eventually runs out of oil. Due to insufficient lubrication, a car with low oil can suffer more engine damage.
Because replacing the oil system in an A4 from 2011 or 2014 would cost roughly $6,000, many people choose to replace the engine instead. The entire engine has to be taken apart in order to be repaired, which takes a lot of time and increases the cost for the business.
Which Audi A4 engine is best?
The 1.9L TDI engine is the greatest one you can purchase for an Audi A4. This excellent diesel engine generates 228 pound-feet of torque and 130 horsepower. Even while it might not seem like much, that is a fantastic choice for the A4, a compact car.
The 1.9L TDI engine excels in this regard. These little diesel motors are some of the most durable ones ever made. There are several of them still on the road today who have driven more than 300,000 miles, and some of them have exceeded 500,000. If they choose to swap engines, many consumers opt to replace the gasoline engines in their A4s with the 1.9L TDI.
Although it’s an older option, the A4’s 1.9L engine has been reliable over the years. If you’re considering an Audi and want it to survive longer, you should think about choosing a diesel model because they have better gas mileage and a longer lifespan than their gasoline counterparts.
What are the Audi A4’s primary issues?
Primary Audi A4 Issues
- Power loss and poor fuel efficiency.
- Plenum Tray Drain clogged.
- Failure of a high-pressure fuel pump.
- excessive use of oil.
- Misfiring engine.
- Suspension parts prematurely wear out.
- Failure of the control module and flasher relay.
- Engine Failure.
A4 Audi models should be avoided?
With around 250,000 vehicles sold each year in the US, Audi is a high-performing luxury brand with a German basis that sells well. It ranks fourth among the most popular luxury brands. In 2020, Audi sold more than 1.5 automobiles worldwide, which is an 8.3% decline from the prior year.
Audi gained its market share in the majority of important markets, despite reduced overall sales. The most important single market for Audi was China, where sales increased by more than 5% to a record level. Even though it has a strong following and is a well-known brand, it occasionally disappoints. Consider purchasing one. These Audi A4 model years should be avoided.
Quick answer: 2008, 2009, 2011
Although these model years are all relatively recent in comparison to when the A4 was first released, there’s a strong possibility that if you’re looking for a secondhand car, they will all have more than 65k miles on them. This implies that when it comes to maintenance, you might not be able to discern when something needs minor maintenance or a major overhaul. Once the A4 has accumulated more than 70,000 miles, fuel economy becomes a regular complaint. Drivers have reported receiving less than 300 miles per tank, which is significantly fewer than the 415 miles it should be getting.
The best approach to purchase a car is through the CoPilot app. We’ll show you all you need to know about each listing, including how long it’s been on the lot and whether or not there are comparable cars in the area for less money. We’re built using the same technologies that dealerships use.
Complaints by year
- 2021 – 0
- 2020 – 0
- 2019 – 0
- 2018 – 0
- 2017 – 12
- 2016 – 2
- 2015 – 1
- 2014 – 6
- 2013 – 11
- 2012 – 9
- 2011 – 23
- 2010 – 18
- 2009 – 35
- 2008 – 20
- 2007 – 12
Issues:
- oil problems
- Airbags
- climate regulation
The oil consistently caused routine issues during the Ad model year. This included oil leaks, an incorrect estimation of the amount of oil in the tank between replacements, and other issues. It was very typical to observe problems with the air conditioning after a while. It runs well when maintained and is a reasonably comfortable drive, with the exception of occasional mechanical issues.
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Recalls:
Airbags: On the 2008 model, there were five different airbag recalls, including one for delayed deployment on the driver’s side, one for explosion during deployment, and one for excessive corrosion and failure.
motor failure
It had some issues, much like the 2008 model year, but overall it’s a respectable used luxury car. This vehicle is still to be avoided because it had the same recalls as the previous year and had comparable mechanical concerns. This model year is considered to have more long-lasting repair expenditures that accumulate over time due to low fuel economy and excessive usage.
Recalls
Airbags: The same five airbag recalls from the 2008 model, including excessive corrosion and failure, explosion during deployment, and delayed deployment on the driver’s side, persisted into the 2009 model.
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Audi A4 model year to avoid – 2011
2011 was the Audi A4’s worst-performing model year. The engine accounted for the majority of the mechanical issues and failures that the Audi A4 experienced during this model year. The 2011 Audi A4 was frequently criticized for being extremely inefficient with fuel and gobbling up gas. This might not be a life-threatening circumstance, but it can become one of the more costly ones over time.
This means that the owner of a 2011 Audi A4 will not only need to fill up their tank more frequently, but also that it will cost more money to fix the issue permanently. The average cost of this repair was well over $5,000, with many owners opting to completely replace the engine. Although the 2011 model year is frequently regarded as the worst model year overall, the 2009 model year tops it in terms of the total number of complaints received.
One could anticipate that the average cost of repairs would be substantially greater given that 2009 had an increase in overall complaints. However, that’s where the 2011 comes into play, as many owners chose to completely replace the engine, driving up the cost of the repair.
The Audi A4 model years from 2008 to 2011 generally saw a number of complaints, the majority of which were centered around the car’s high oil consumption and subpar engine performance. These excessive oil consumption problems all happened at roughly the same total mileage and were expensive to fix. Around 60,000 miles, on average, these vehicles began to experience noticeable performance decreases, while the model years that followed saw improvements.
The 2011 didn’t have any significant recalls that consumers should be aware of, unlike the previous two model years on this list that you should stay away from. Instead of serious safety concerns, its problems are largely related to general wear and tear maintenance.
Remember that the Audi A4 has been available since 1996, and older models with older engines will probably need more repairs. Even though the 2002 model was praised at the time as one of the best, keeping one today would be unaffordable.
When customers see a used Audi for sale, they are intrigued by the pricing and the amount of money they can save on a high-end vehicle. They don’t immediately think about how much money this car will end up costing them in the long term. The majority of Audis are designed to run without any problems for the first three years, but after that, they demand a lot of maintenance.
What are the good Audi A4 model years?
After some time on the road, the Audi A4 has its share of issues, although not all model years are equally problematic. A4 vehicles from 2013 and newer are typically thought to be more dependable than versions from earlier years, with owners reporting fewer issues. There have only been a few recorded recalls in the previous five years, which is probably because the car has relatively little miles on it and newer technology all around.
Most of the time, buying a used Audi is not a wise financial decision. When accumulated over time, all of those trips to the mechanic may add up to a sizable sum of money. Each model is distinctive in its own way, but if you’re looking at used Audi A4 models, models from more recent years are a better option.