Across 2 model years, the Audi Cabriolet has 10 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and vehicle speed control. 1996 drew the most complaints (8), 1997 the fewest (2).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Audi Cabriolet vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 1996 (8 complaints). Lowest: 1997 (2).
Sentiment is deeply bifurcated by generation and ownership expectations.
Includes hydraulic pump failure, motor failure, fraying fabric, warping storage cover hinges, and failure of associated electronics (seatbelt presenters, access covers).
The adhesive bonding the glass rear window to the fabric top degrades over time (typically 8-10+ years), leading to separation. Often necessitates a complete top replacement.
Plastic timing chain guides are a known failure point, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage. Repair costs quoted around $12,000.
Significant oil consumption, sometimes exceeding 1 quart every 400 miles on high-mileage examples.
Various electrical gremlins, failing sensors, and MMI/infotainment issues as the vehicle ages.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Cabriolet. Individual model years are broken down above.
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