1998 Audi A4 Quattro 1.8T review from North America
"The manufacturer obviously underestimated the wear on critical parts"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
1. The Sunroof opens by itself - this appears to be a switch issue and several attempts to fix it failed.
2. The auxillary fan makes grinding noises. This sound started always when the A/C turned on. This appears to be a worn out bearing. Stevens Creek Audi, San Jose, CA, changed all driving belts in the engine - until they finally diagnosed the fan to be the reason for the sound.
3. Yesterday the timing belt broke - that may be it...
I've had 6 Audi's in my life - but I will probably buy another brand this time.
General comments?
It has been a nice car until a year ago, but it appears to be built for a limited lifetime.
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? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 10 miles |
| Most recent distance | 88055 miles |
| Previous car | Audi A6 |
| Date of Entry | 22nd March, 2004 |