1989 Audi 100 problems

General information about Audi-100
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Audi 100 and Audi 200 (and sometimes called Audi 5000 in North America) are primarily mid-size/executive cars manufactured and marketed by the Audi division of the Volkswagen Group. The car was made from 1968 to 1997 across four generations (C1–C4), with a two-door model available in the first and second generation (C1-C2), and a five-door model available in the last three generations (C2–C4).

In 1982, the third generation Audi 100 achieved a remarkably low (for its time) drag coefficient of 0.30, featuring flush greenhouse sides with unique sliding window mountings.

The C2 and C3 models of the Audi 100 were marketed in North America as the Audi 5000 from 1978 to 1988, and in South Africa as the Audi 500.

In 1993, the models were mildly restyled, and renamed the Audi A6 series in conjunction with a general new Audi naming scheme, until they were replaced by a new generation of A6, internally code-named C5, in 1997. The Audi 100's traditional competitors include the Mercedes Benz E-Class and BMW 5-Series.

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Common 1989 Audi 100 problems

The Audi 100, produced in 1989, is known for its reliability and robustness. However, several common problems have been reported by owners, including cold starting issues, power steering problems, and electrical faults.

Cold starting issues are a common complaint among Audi 100 owners. The engine may take too long to turn over before starting, particularly in cold weather. This issue can be attributed to several factors, such as a weak battery, a malfunctioning starter motor, or a clogged fuel filter. A weak battery may not provide enough power to the starter motor, causing the engine to turn over slowly. A malfunctioning starter motor may also contribute to the problem, as it may not engage properly with the flywheel, leading to slow engine turnover. A clogged fuel filter can also cause cold starting issues, as it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, making it harder to start.

Power steering problems are another common issue with the Audi 100. The power steering system can leak, causing a loss of power steering fluid. If the leak is not addressed, the power steering rack may need to be replaced, which can be an expensive repair. It is essential to check the power steering system regularly for leaks and to address any issues promptly to avoid costly repairs.

Electrical faults are also a common problem with the Audi 100. Electrical components, such as the electric sunroof, can malfunction, causing inconvenience and potentially expensive repairs. For example, a jammed electric sunroof may not be cheap to have remedied. Other electrical components, such as the alternator, starter motor, and headlamp, can also fail, leading to additional repair costs.

In summary, the Audi 100, produced in 1989, is known for its reliability and robustness. However, several common problems have been reported by owners, including cold starting issues, power steering problems, and electrical faults. It is essential to address these issues promptly to avoid costly repairs and to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.

Was Audi 100 a good car?

Audi 100 (1976 – 1984) At A Glance

Airy cabin, nice ergonomics and neat road manners marked it out as a very competent steer. And it was powered by the closest relative to Porsche's 924 'van' engine. However, the arrival of its inline five-cylinder engine in 1978 added some much needed charisma, and a fine soundtrack.

Why is the Audi 100 important?

The first Audi Coupé of the postwar era: The Audi 100 Coupé S had its actual market launch in 1970. Audi also used the 100 to show global buyers that the brand had really kicked its old Auto Union identity (Auto Union had became a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagenwerk AG in 1966).

How many Audi 100 were made?

At the end of September 1977, the Audi 100 became the manufacturer's first model to reach a production level of 1,000,000 units.

Is the Audi 100 RWD?

The Audi 100 Coupé S is a grand touring car made by the German company Audi AG from 1969 until 1976. The car was first presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1969. It is a two-door coupé with a fastback design and a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout.

Was Audi 100 a good car?

Audi 100 (1976 – 1984) At A Glance

Why is the Audi 100 important?

1982--The Audi 100 is a world record-breaker because of the 0.30 drag coefficient. 1983--Audi becomes the first German manufacturer to receive a general operating permit for cars with catalytic-converter technology, which reduces the toxicity of emissions from an internal combustion engine.

How many Audi 100 were made?

At the end of September 1977, the Audi 100 became the manufacturer's first model to reach a production level of 1,000,000 units.

What is the performance of the Audi 100?

The Audi 100 2.1 E has a naturally aspirated five cylinders in line longitudinal front engine providing a maximum torque of 180 Nm available from 4800 rpm and a maximum power outpup of 136 PS available at 5700 rpm transmitted to the 14 inch front wheels by a manual 5 speed gearbox.

1989 Audi 100 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi 100 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Power train problems
Visibility problems
Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Audi 100 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Audi 100 complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Audi 100.

2003-12-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUBB0446KN
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: DIFFERENTIAL LEAKED OIL INTO THE TRANSMISSION WHICH DAMAGED THE GEARS. *AK A RECALL WAS ISSUED RELATED TO THE PROBLEM THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXPERIENCED BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *NM

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2000-04-10

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUDB0442KN
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILED. YH THE SPEEDOMETER NO LONGER RECORDS SPEED, IT BOBS UP AND DOWN BETWEEN 20-40 MPH, THE ODOMETER NO LONGER RECORDS MILEAGE, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT THEY SAID THIS WAS NOT A SAFETY HAZARD DUE TO THE AGE AND MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE (CASE # 990-329-290). NLM 12-APR-01

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2000-04-10

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUDB0442KN
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILED. YH

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2000-04-10

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUDB0442KN
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILED,THE ODOMETER NO LONGER RECORDS MILEAGE. YH

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1998-01-26

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUDB0441KN
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: WINDOWS FOG OVER AND THE DEFROSTER ONLY MAKES THE PROBLEM WORSE.

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1996-10-15

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: FAN MOTOR FAILED.

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1989 Audi 100 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1989 Audi 100.

1997-10-06

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME AIR BAG SENSORS DO NOT COMPLY WITH AUDI'S DURABILITY STANDARDS OVER THE LIFETIME OF THE VEHICLE.
Consequence: IN THE EVENT THE SENSOR SHOULD MALFUNCTION, THE AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM CAN INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY. DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM WITHOUT WARNING COULD CAUSE A DRIVER TO LOSE VEHICLE CONTROL.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG SENSOR CONTROL MODULE.

1993-01-11

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
Summary: THE DIFFERENTIAL OIL OF THE TRANSAXLE IS LOST OVER TIME DUE TO EVAPORATION. LOW OIL LEVELS CAUSE PREMATURE BEARING AND GEAR WEAR AND EVENTUAL FAILURE OF THE DIFFERENTIAL.
Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF FAILURE, THE VEHICLE'S DRIVE WHEELS COULDLOSE POWER. IN EXTREME CIRCUMSTANCES, THE FRONT WHEELS LOCK, CAUSING RAPIDDECELERATION RESULTING IN POSSIBLE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy: DRAIN AND REPLACE THE DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL WITH OIL HAVING HIGHER PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS.

1991-04-02

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT
Summary: INSTRUCTION LABEL IN THE TRUNK OF VEHICLE IS INCORRECT FOR THE JACK SUPPLIED WITH THE VEHICLE.
Consequence: INCORRECT USE CAN RESULT IN THE JACK COLLAPSING, WITHINJURY TO INDIVIDUALS UNDER OR NEAR VEHICLE DURING COLLAPSE.
Remedy: SUPPLY INSERT TO OWNER'S MANUAL NOTING CORRECT USAGE, AS WELL AS A CORRECTED INSTRUCTION LABEL FOR THE TRUNK.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Audi 100 problems:

Audi 100 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/audi/100

Top Audi 100 Problems · Bushings May Deteriorate With Age and Cause Noise. 8 people have reported this · Inspect CV Boots and Joints at Each Service. 5 people ...

1989 Audi 100 stalling and hard starting - AudiWorld Forums

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/audi-5000-200-v8-discussion-27/1989-audi-100-stalling-hard-starting-2837914/

Nov 22, 2012 ... SJM (search SJM autotechnic) has a very good writeup on the common t44 issues and how to diagnose the fuel system. 4. stalling. My first thought ...

Audi 100 5cyl cold start problem

https://groups.google.com/g/alt.autos.audi/c/GBWLimDw53I

Got a major problem here kindof i think. Got a 1991 Audi 100 with a 5 cylinder 2.3 litre fuel injected engine. you can crank it for ages and it will fire ...

Audi 100/200 C3 2.2l Reliability/maintenance? - AudiWorld Forums

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/audi-5000-200-v8-discussion-27/audi-100-200-c3-2-2l-reliability-maintenance-2940641/

Jan 10, 2018 ... So, given all these problems, is there anybody who has owned and/or worked on these cars who knows how simple these things are to fix? Is it as ...