1999 Audi A4 Avant review from North America
"I will probably be putting my mechanic's kids through college with this car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My check engine light has come on five times. All times were due to the evaporative/emissions sensor in the car.
The small solid state computer that controls ignition timing failed at 60,000 miles.
An ignition coil failed.
The heater fan's bearing is going bad causing an obnoxious whining sound when the heater is on.
Replaced the timing belt at 60,000 miles.
The CD changer doesn't work sometimes.
Multiple leaks in the vacuum system which controls just about everything on these cars (poorly designed).
General comments?
This car is unbelievable on the snowy roads of Colorado and I feel the traction is actually better than my Toyota T-100 4-wheel drive truck.
However, the maintenance costs are ridiculous.
I am seriously considering getting rid of this car and buying something that is actually reliable.
My wife and I have spent over $4000 on maintenance bills and have only owned the car for a little over a year.
If you do choose to buy an A4, I suggest you do two things: (1) Move in next door to a factory certified Audi mechanic and (2) Buy a car that is actually reliable to have as a back-up.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Good driving, |
| Great driving car, but high maintenance |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8T Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 46000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 68000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota 4x4 |
| Date of Entry | 11th February, 2004 |