1997 Audi Cabriolet: common problems and reliability

The 1997 Audi Cabriolet has 2 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are vehicle speed control and steering. Owners most often flag *convertible top mechanism failures — includes hydraulic pump failure, motor failure, fraying fabric, warping storage cover hinges, and failure of associated electronics (seatbelt presenters, access covers). frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 1997 model year

2
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
0
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 1997 Audi Cabriolet vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

vehicle speed control
1
steering
1

Recalls affecting the 1997 Cabriolet

air bags:frontal

Campaign 97V175000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE DISCHARGE OF STATIC ELECTRICITY UNDER LOW HUMIDITY CONDITIONS CAN ACTIVATE THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WHEN THE DRIVER ENTERS OR EXITS THE VEHICLE AND FORMS AN ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT …

What owners say across generations

Sentiment is deeply bifurcated by generation and ownership expectations. For modern S5 Cabriolets (B9 generation, ~2018-2024), owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by immense driving joy, high levels of comfort, and strong reliability when

  • *Convertible Top Mechanism Failures — Includes hydraulic pump failure, motor failure, fraying fabric, warping storage cover hinges, and failure of associated electronics (seatbelt presenters, access covers). Frequency: very frequent.
  • *Rear Window Separation — 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. Frequency: very frequent.
  • *Timing Chain Guide Failure (B6/B7 S4 4.2L V8) — Plastic timing chain guides are a known failure point, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage. Repair costs quoted around $12,000. Frequency: recurrent.
  • *Oil Consumption (2.0T and 4.2L V8 engines) — Significant oil consumption, sometimes exceeding 1 quart every 400 miles on high-mileage examples. Frequency: recurrent.
  • *High-Pressure Fuel Pump Cam Follower Wear (2.0T engines) — Requires inspection and can lead to fuel system damage. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Cabriolet.

Full Audi Cabriolet owner reportCompare against another car