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Sedan · Gas · 235 versions · owner report
Ranked #1 of 23 used luxury compact cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2025
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on diligent maintenance.
18 problems reported (7 very frequent, 8 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
B9 Generation (2017-2023) with the EA888 Gen 3 2.0T engine. This powertrain is repeatedly cited as one of the more reliable Audi engines overall, with known, manageable issues. The B9.5 facelift (approx. 2020-2023) is specifically highlighted for having better build quality and a more "true Audi" feel compared to newer models. The 3.0T supercharged engine found in B8-generation S4 models is also noted as a "good" and robust engine, despite some ancillary failure points.
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Lexus IS and Acura TLX.
Is the A4 right for you?
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Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on diligent maintenance. The B9 generation (model years approximately 2017-2023) receives a generally positive to mixed assessment, with owners praising its refined driving dynamics, comfortable and premium-feeling interior, and the reliability of its EA888 Gen 3 2.0T engine when properly maintained. It is frequently described as a great daily driver that is enjoyable to drive. In stark contrast, the B8/B8.5 generation (approximately 2008-2016) is the subject of widespread and severe criticism, particularly for its 2.0T engine. This generation is plagued by very frequent reports of catastrophic oil consumption, timing chain system failures, and a host of other expensive mechanical issues, leading multiple owners to label it as unreliable, a "worst car ever made," and a significant financial burden. The consensus indicates that a positive ownership experience is almost entirely contingent on selecting the correct generation and adhering to a strict, proactive maintenance regimen.
Positioned as a comfortable, tech-forward, and refined daily driver with superior all-weather capability via Quattro. Compared dynamically, it is often described as less sporty and engaging than a BMW 3 Series or an Alfa Romeo Giulia, with one owner noting the Giulia was "so much better to drive." It is seen as a more driver-focused alternative to a Mercedes-Benz C-Class for comfort. Against mainstream brands like Mazda, some owners feel recent Audis lack a premium edge, with one stating their Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a more premium feel and more fun. The brand's current positioning is criticized by some as having diluted its core strengths of interior quality, technology, and pure Quattro performance, making it less competitive against rivals like Genesis on value or BMW on driving engagement.
Quattro all-wheel drive is strongly recommended for traction and resale value. For the B9 2.0T, a certified pre-owned (CPO) or third-party extended warranty is frequently advised to cover potential failures like the water pump/thermostat assembly. Manual transmission is noted as a desirable, engaging option that was offered in earlier generations. All-weather floor mats are a recommended accessory. For tuned vehicles, 034 Motorsport and APR are mentioned as reputable software and hardware providers.
Suitable for owners who prioritize a refined, comfortable, and tech-savvy daily driver with all-weather confidence. NOT recommended for buyers seeking low-cost, low-maintenance ownership. Essential advice includes: absolutely avoid B8/B8.5 generation 2.0T models due to pervasive oil consumption and timing chain issues; for B9 models, prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) focusing on the water pump/thermostat, engine mounts, and timing chain condition; verify all recall and service campaign work is complete; budget for higher maintenance costs than mainstream Japanese brands; use a reputable specialist or dealer for service; and strongly consider an extended warranty. For any model, scrupulous adherence to the maintenance schedule is non-negotiable.
The owner experience is almost entirely generation-specific. The B8/B8.5 2.0T has a severely damaged reputation for reliability, with issues so common they are considered a near-certainty. The B9 2.0T represents a significant improvement, with known, finite failure points (water pump/thermostat, engine mounts) that can be budgeted for. The widespread "Quattro Ultra rumble" issue on B9/B9.5 models is a known problem with a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB); the fix involves changing the AWD clutch fluid, which some dealers now treat as a scheduled maintenance item. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning models from 2009 to 2025, with a heavy concentration on the problematic B8 and the more favorably viewed B9 generations.
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (243) · unknown or other (170) · back over prevention (98)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2016-2025 Audi A4 express strong overall satisfaction, frequently praising the car’s reliability, comfortable and quiet cabin, good fuel economy (especially on the highway), and Quattro all-wheel drive.
9 problems reported (2 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Multiple owners report oil consumption issues, with one owner needing an oil consumption test after finding multiple leaks.
Owners mention this as a known maintenance item costing around $4,000.
One owner of a 2019 A4 reported MMI glitches that required software updates.
One owner of a 2019 A4 reported an engine management light and fan running constantly due to a temperature sensor issue.
One owner reported a clutch burning out on a 2016 A4 with 65,000 miles shortly after purchase.
One owner reported a squealing noise possibly related to belts, fluid levels, or transmission components.
One owner mentioned potential thrust bearing issues on a 2016 A4.
One owner mentioned replacing a radiator fan assembly.
One owner reported replacing all suspension and a brake caliper on a 2016 A4 with 131,000 miles.
Is a 2016–2025 A4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (250) · unknown or other (174) · back over prevention (98)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2015-2025 Audi A4 express a deeply divided sentiment.
10 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Many owners report burning oil rapidly, with one spending $3,500 on camshaft replacement with only partial improvement.
Multiple owners report the engine "offing itself" around 100,000-110,000 miles, with one needing a new engine and another reporting an exhaust valve failure.
Owners mention timing chain replacement as a common high-mileage necessity, with one reporting failure at 180,000 km.
Multiple owners report turbocharger failure, with one quoting $800 labor for replacement.
Listed as a proactive replacement item around 120,000-160,000 km.
Owners report needing front and rear suspension work, including CV axles and strut mounts.
One owner reports the screen going black and not turning back on.
One owner reports replacing the fuel pump twice.
One owner reports needing both front CV axles replaced.
Mentioned as a required cleaning around 100,000 km.
Is a 2015–2025 A4 right for you?
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Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (364) · steering (149) · air bags (146)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners are sharply divided on this generation.
14 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Is a 2009–2016 A4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (837) · engine (448) · steering (149)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners are sharply divided on this generation.
17 problems reported (3 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Is a 2007–2016 A4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (877) · exterior lighting (417) · electrical system (130)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2005-2008 Audi A4 express a mix of strong affection and resigned frustration.
13 problems reported (5 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Stereo dead, convertible top not closing, reverse light flickering)
Is a 2005–2008 A4 right for you?
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Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (955) · exterior lighting (417) · fuel system (172)
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided.
12 problems reported (7 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Is a 2004–2008 A4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): exterior lighting (325) · fuel system (307) · gasoline (261)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2001-2005 Audi A4 express a deeply divided sentiment.
13 problems reported (4 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Owners stress the importance of this maintenance item.
One owner reported going through three turbos in 250,000 miles, attributing it to oil cooking from heat.
Owners report the 1.8T consuming about half a quart every 3,000-4,000 miles.
Multiple owners warn of significant repair costs once the car passes 100,000 miles.
One owner reported a cracked head after 232,000 miles due to heat cycles; another suspected a cracked head as a cause of overheating.
A few owners reported the immobilizer not recognizing the key.
One owner reported a $700 fuel pump replacement.
One owner reported a small crack requiring periodic refills.
One owner reported a $300 repair.
One owner reported a bad AC compressor pulley.
One owner reported a belt squeak after hitting puddles.
One owner scrapped a car due to a rusted rear subframe.
One owner reported occasional catalyst efficiency faults after 294,000 miles.
Is a 2001–2005 A4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): fuel system (288) · gasoline (261) · electrical system (218)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners express a deeply divided sentiment about this generation.
13 problems reported (4 recurrent, 6 isolated) · high confidence
Recurrent (mentioned in general discussion of problem areas)
Recurrent (mentioned in general discussion of problem areas)
Recurrent (mentioned in general discussion of problem areas)
Is a 2000–2004 A4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Audi A4 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 6 | 0 | tires |
| 2023 | 1 | 1 | equipment |
| 2021 | 12 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 284 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 8 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 51 | 4 | unknown or other |
| 2017 | 82 | 1 | air bags |
| 2016 | 26 | 0 | engine |
| 2015 | 44 | 0 | engine |
| 2014 | 76 | 0 | engine |
| 2013 | 110 | 0 | steering |
| 2012 | 71 | 0 | engine |
| 2011 | 74 | 0 | engine |
| 2010 | 128 | 0 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
2023 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V251000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V606000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2021 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 22V742000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2020 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2020 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2020 · seatscampaign 21V874000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2019 · seatscampaign 21V874000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2018 · seatscampaign 21V874000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2018 · structure:body:door:hinge and attachmentscampaign 17V675000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Audi A4 Sedan and A4 allroad, and 2018 A5 Sportback vehicles. The aluminum trim on the front and rear doors can come loose from around the door speakers, leaving sharp edges exposed.
2018 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V836000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Audi A5 Sportback and 2017-2018 Audi A4 Allroad vehicles. A passenger air bag module mounting screw may not have been sufficiently tightened, possibly affecting the deployment of the air bag in the event of a crash.
2018 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V547000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2018 S5 Cabriolet, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, S4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, and 2017-2018 A4 Sedan and A4 Allroad vehicles. Oxidation on the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) connecting cable may cause the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2017 · seatscampaign 21V874000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2009 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V032000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet, S4 Cabriolet, A6 Avant, A6 Sedan and S6 Sedan vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone B" above, Volkswagen is recalling certain 2005-2008 Audi A4 Avant, A4 Sedan, A6 Sedan, S4 Avant and S4 Sedan vehicles, 2007-2008 A4 Cabriolet, RS4 Sedan, S4 Cabriolet and S6 Sedan vehicles, and 2006-2008 A6 Avant and 2008 RS4 Cabriolet vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
65 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Enthusiast code: B9
45 TFSI quattro ultra Mild Hybrid
2.0L 4-cylinder · 265 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2020–2025