1997 Audi A6 Quattro review from North America

When I bought the car the first thing I noticed was that the radio didn't work. I pushed the faceplate back in (it was bent) and it worked. But the CD changer never worked.

Next I noticed some of the instrument lights were out. I have since replaced almost all of them. The temperature light is now out, but I believe just loose.

The gas pedal fell off, just the plastic part. Still is not fixed. Falls off occasionally.

I installed a new stereo and discovered that the battery placement in the back is in line with a spring from the seat. I have since melted the backseat to the battery twice when occupants were there.

The sunroof interior visor broke, now must be pulled out of roof by hand when sunroof is closed. Leaked once.

I have tried using xenon-look headlights and the car blows them left and right. Longest any have lasted is a month, shortest is about 4 days before blowing. And not the light coil, the base explodes. I now buy bulbs in bulk.

Right taillight fills with water.

Car is terrible on gas for the type of engine. Two valve small sixes should not guzzle gas like this car, Quattro or otherwise.

Power does not match mileage.

Check engine light comes on when cold, but that's because after pulling my bumper off, the lower air dam fell off. So the engine doesn't think it is warm enough.

I can relate to the bucking bull when trying to get out of the doors when they swing back and knock you down.

Cruise control sometimes doesn't catch on the first try.

Sounds like a CV joint is about to start going, noticeable clunk when I turn the wheel to a certain point (not very far off true).

Exhaust is visible at unusually warm temperatures.

Water temp never seems to go up in the winter, no thermostat problems.

Wind noise from my window, don't know about the others.

Rattles come from window areas.

I bought the car because of how smooth it rides. I have since replaced the springs with lowering springs, so ride has been compromised.

Overall, the car is nice, it looks nice and drives nice for the most part. But it doesn't meet my expectations for what it is. A near-luxury car.

My previous cars never gave me as many problems as this one.

I love the AWD, but not how temperamental it is, I believe the next car I buy will be a Subaru.