1998 Audi A4 quatro review from North America
"Unreliable compared to Japanese cars"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The potentiometer on the sunroof broke and the roof opened spontaneously. This is a common problem on the '98 A 4. The switch was redesigned in 1998 I am told. The part cost $100 and the dealer quoted $250 labor. Actual time to install a new part for a non-mechanic is about 30 minutes.
The lights behind the instrument panel blow out and are expensive to have fixed.
The power steer whines in the morning for no apparent reason.
The brakes need frequent and expensive repairs with changes of rotors.
General comments?
Dealer servicing is too expensive. They go by the book which allocates time for repairs that far exceeds what is actually spent. I have heard dealer mechanics express suprise at the billing amount.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Great performance, fit and finish, but prepare for very high maintenance costs |
| Piece of junk |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 60000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 60000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 6th October, 2003 |