19 Best & Worst Audi A4 Years (Stats & Examples)

It’s important to do some thorough research before buying a used car. The Audi A4 is no exception.

Though Audis are high-quality all the way through – there are always models here and there with more issues and problems.

Let’s dive in.

Check also our list of most common problems across the Audi A4 models.

The Best Years for Audi A4

First Generation (1994-2001)

The first generation of Audi A4 was produced from 1994 to 2001.

This generation was known for its sleek design and sporty handling, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts. The first generation Audi A4 was available in both sedan and wagon body styles, offering versatility and practicality.

Some of the best years for the first generation Audi A4 include 1998 and 1999.

These model years were praised for their reliability and performance. They were equipped with a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, which provided plenty of power and acceleration.

Third Generation (2013-2016)

The third generation of Audi A4 was produced from 2013 to 2016.

This generation was known for its luxurious interior and advanced technology. The third generation Audi A4 was available in both sedan and wagon body styles, offering versatility and practicality.

Some of the best years for the third-generation Audi A4 include 2015 and 2016. These model years were praised for their refined ride and handling, as well as their fuel efficiency.

They were equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which provided plenty of power and acceleration.

Overall, the first and third generations of Audi A4 offer some of the best years for this popular luxury vehicle. With their sleek design, sporty handling, and advanced technology, these model years are sure to impress even the most discerning car enthusiasts.

The Worst Years for Audi A4

While the Audi A4 is generally a reliable car, there are certain model years that should be avoided due to reported problems and issues.

Here are the worst years for Audi A4:

Second Generation (2001-2005)

The second generation of Audi A4, produced from 2001 to 2005, is considered one of the worst years for the car.

Some of the issues reported with this generation include:

• Frequent transmission failure
• Electrical problems, including malfunctioning windows and door locks
• Issues with the timing belt, which can cause engine damage if not addressed promptly

These problems can be costly to repair and may require frequent trips to the mechanic, making this generation of Audi A4 a less-than-ideal choice for car buyers.

Fourth Generation (2016-2021)

The fourth generation of Audi A4, produced from 2016 to 2021, is another model year to avoid.

Some of the issues reported with this generation include:

• Engine oil consumption, which can lead to engine failure
• Malfunctioning infotainment system
• Issues with the start-stop system, which can cause the car to stall unexpectedly

These problems can be frustrating for car owners and may require frequent trips to the dealership for repairs.

Additionally, the high costs of repairs and maintenance for this generation of Audi A4 make it a less-than-ideal choice for car buyers.

What Are Some Typical Problems With the Audi A4 Models?

The Audi A4 is a popular luxury sedan that has been on the market for several years.

While Audi has made significant strides in improving the reliability of their vehicles, there are still some common problems that Audi A4 owners may encounter.

Here are a few of the most typical problems with Audi A4 models:

• Engine Problems: Some Audi A4 models, particularly those from the early to mid-2000s, have experienced premature failure of the ignition coils, which can cause the engine to misfire or stall. Additionally, some models have been known to consume excessive amounts of oil, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
• Electrical Issues: Electrical problems are not uncommon in Audi A4 models. Some owners have reported issues with the car’s central locking system, which can cause the doors to fail to lock or unlock properly. Additionally, some models have experienced problems with the car’s dashboard lights, which can flicker or fail to illuminate properly.
• Suspension Problems: Some Audi A4 models have experienced problems with the car’s suspension system. This can manifest as a clunking or knocking sound when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Additionally, some models have experienced problems with the car’s steering, which can cause the car to feel unstable or difficult to control.

It’s important to note that not all Audi A4 models will experience these problems, and some models may experience different issues altogether.

Additionally, regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent many of these problems from occurring in the first place.

If you’re considering purchasing an Audi A4, it’s always a good idea to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure that it’s in good condition and free from any major issues.

What Audi A4 models had the most recalls?

The Audi A4 has had its fair share of recalls over the years, with some models experiencing more issues than others.

One of the biggest recalls affecting the A4 was the Takata airbag recall, which affected many different makes and models.

In terms of specific A4 models, the B8 generation (2009-2016) had the most recalls. According to Audiworld, a number of technical service bulletins were issued for this generation, including:

• issues with the steering wheel and handlebar,
• engine and cooling system,
• fuel system,
• and powertrain.

Software and equipment issues were also reported, although these were generally easy fixes for most owners.

Another notable recall affecting the A4 was for the 2011 model year. This particular year experienced a variety of mechanical difficulties and failures, with the majority of them coming from the engine.

The most prevalent complaint about the 2011 Audi A4 was that it was not at all fuel-efficient and routinely ate up gas.

It’s worth noting, however, that recalls are not always indicative of a poorly designed or manufactured vehicle. In many cases, a recall is issued simply as a precautionary measure to address a potential safety issue.

Regardless, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about any recalls that may affect your vehicle and to address them promptly if necessary.

Is the Audi A4 Expensive To Service And Repair?

It is crucial to note that the cost of servicing and repairing a vehicle can vary depending on factors such as the age of the car, the region you live in, and the specific model or engine type.

However, as a general rule, luxury vehicles like the Audi A4 do tend to have higher service and repair costs than their non-luxury counterparts.

This is primarily due to the use of premium parts and materials, as well as the specialized skills required to work on these advanced vehicles.

The Audi A4, like other Audi models, has a reputation for being relatively expensive to maintain. According to RepairPal, the average annual cost of maintaining an Audi A4 is around $739.

This figure is higher than the average for all luxury compact sedans, which stands at $590 per year.

Additionally, the A4 ranks 14th out of 31 models in terms of reliability, suggesting that repair costs could be higher than average.

However, the Audi A4’s higher service and repair costs should be weighed against:

• its performance,
• safety features,
• and overall driving experience.

The A4 comes equipped with a turbocharged engine, providing a powerful yet fuel-efficient driving experience. Moreover, it has received high safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and it consistently ranks well in customer satisfaction surveys.

One way to mitigate the potential financial burden of maintaining an Audi A4 is by purchasing a pre-owned certified vehicle or opting for an extended warranty.

Audi offers a comprehensive certified pre-owned (CPO) program that includes a rigorous inspection, a limited warranty, and 24/7 roadside assistance. An extended warranty, on the other hand, can help cover the cost of unexpected repairs, offering peace of mind to owners.

In conclusion, while the Audi A4 may be more expensive to service and repair than some other luxury vehicles, the overall ownership experience and performance it offers can be worth the additional cost.

Go Back to the overview of best and worst year per Audi model.

Was this article helpful?

ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.