2001 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro review from North America

Rear seat latch defective at delivery (this should have been an omen).

"Check Engine" light frequently came on. The dealer always told me the that nothing was wrong or that the computer registered a lean mixture (too low octane). After several trips (4+) it was determined that the vacuum hose had come loose.

I am constantly replacing headlight bulbs, tail light bulbs, and turn signal bulbs. The dealer tells me they aren't sure if this is caused by poorly manufactured bulbs or the corrosion in the bulb sockets (why did these sockets corrode so early?).

The speakers cut in and out repeatedly and the dealer can't find anything wrong. I have replaced numerous stereo speakers (some as many as three times each) and the problem still isn't resolved.

Engine coil failure at 20,000 miles (subsequently coils were recalled).

Fun to drive and handles well, but requires too much service.

Well designed. The best designed car on the road.

Comes loaded with options at a reasonable price, but the service fees are where they get you.

I'm worried about how much it will cost to maintain this vehicle once the warranty / Audi advantage period is over.

I changed service dealers once thinking the problem was the service, but it turns out the problem is the car (no dealer can fix it).