1998 Audi A4 review from North America
"Poor Reliability and Very Costly to Maintain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My timing belt broke two days ago at 72k miles leaving me stranded on the freeway blocking traffic during rush hour. Boroscope inspection revealed that engine replacement is required. Current estimate is $7000 - $8000 depending whether or not the engine core is bad (to be determined tomorrow).
The tie rods had to be replaced at 60k miles.
Interior "pleather" seat material has started to tear.
This car has had many additional minor problems (electrical, sensors, etc), leaving me seriously questioning whether or not I will ever buy an Audi again.
General comments?
The car handles well, although the 1.8T of this year is under powered.
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 |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8T Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 54000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 72000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda Protege |
| Date of Entry | 19th November, 2004 |