1997 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro review from North America
"With a little extra power and improved reliability, this could be a great car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced the following between 50,000 and 60,000 miles. They were covered under Audi certification program warranty.
- Control arms. Dealer said this was normal for this car.
- Both headlights. They blew out within a week of each other.
- Radio. Driver side door speakers stopped working. New radio fixed the problem.
- Heating elements in both outside mirrors.
- Cup holders. Springs broke.
- Window controls on driver door.
- Timing chain(?) dampener. Some rattling noise from engine compartment.
Around 75,000 miles the wheel bearings for the back right wheel were replaced.
Around 80,000 miles, right-side headlight blows out again.
Around 90,000 timing belt broke.
Every so often while going up hill at slow speed (under 25) car would refuse to shift down to correct gear and the engine would knock. Audi mechanics told me transmission was "working within spec".
General comments?
I liked the idea of driving an Audi -- something a little more jazzy than the everyday Accord and Camry.
With new tires, this car with the all wheel drive was great in the snow.
The seats are very uncomfortable after an hour or so.
Car is slow. Especially from a stand still.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Dependable if maintained regularly, and a pleasure to drive! |
| Buy if you can do your own repairs; Lease otherwise |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8T Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 50000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 90000 miles |
| Previous car | Acura Integra |
| Date of Entry | 22nd June, 2004 |