1996 Audi A4 Quattro review from North America
"Fantastically unreliable but fun to drive."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
All eight front suspension bushings have been replaced. Only the two attached to the lower control arms were covered by Audi.
I had the (original) tie rods replaced this year because the right was loose. My mechanic was incredulous that these original tie rods had lasted for eight years since they usually fail in three.
Both rear wheel bearings have failed.
The rear differential oil seal has been replaced twice.
The AC evaporator was replaced two years ago for $1400.
I was stranded at work when the multi-function headlight switch/ turn signal lever failed.
One can smell unburned gasoline in the cabin on cold days. No mechanic has yet been able to solve this problem.
General comments?
I have spent thousands of dollars repairing and maintaining this car, but I can't bring myself to part with it. I just wish that a tree would fall on it.
I don't understand why Audi's have a good reputation, since they are so unreliable.
My next car will be a Subaru.
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| The best car I ever owned |
|
| A German driving machine made like a Yugo |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 30000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 91000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 16th May, 2005 |