1991 Audi 80 problems

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The Audi 80 is a compact executive car produced by the Audi subdivision of the Volkswagen Group across four generations from 1966 to 1996. It shared its platform with the Volkswagen Passat from 1973 to 1986 and was available as a saloon, and station wagon — the latter marketed by Audi as the Avant. The coupé and convertible models were not badged as members of the range, but used a derivative of the same platforms.

In North America and Australia, the 80 was marketed as the Audi Fox for model years 1973–79, as the Audi 4000 for model years 1980–87 in the USA, as Audi 4000 5+5 from 1981 in the USA, and Audi 5+5 in Australia during 1981 through 1983.

The Audi 90 was an upmarket version of the Audi 80, although all North American sedans of the B4 generation were called Audi 90.

1991 Audi 80

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Common 1991 Audi 80 problems

The Audi 80, produced from 1966 to 1996, is known for its high-quality German engineering and premium features. However, like any car, the Audi 80 has experienced common issues throughout its various generations. This article will focus on the third generation of the Audi 80, produced from 1986 to 1991, and the most common problems reported by owners of this car.

One of the most common issues with the Audi 80 from this generation is ignition system problems. Specifically, a failed distributor is a common problem. The distributor is a critical component of the ignition system, responsible for distributing the high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs in the correct firing order. When the distributor fails, the car may experience difficulty starting, stalling, or misfiring.

The cause of a failed distributor in the Audi 80 can be due to several factors, including wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or manufacturing defects. To diagnose a failed distributor, a mechanic will typically perform a visual inspection and test the electrical connections and wiring. If the distributor is found to be faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Another common issue with the Audi 80 from this generation is transmission problems. Specifically, slipping and rough shifting are common complaints from owners. The transmission is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels, and any issues with the transmission can result in decreased performance and fuel efficiency.

The cause of transmission problems in the Audi 80 can be due to several factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn or damaged transmission components, or manufacturing defects. To diagnose transmission problems, a mechanic will typically perform a visual inspection and test the transmission fluid level and quality. If the transmission is found to be faulty, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

In addition to ignition system and transmission problems, the Audi 80 from this generation also experienced braking issues. Worn brake pads and a faulty master cylinder are common problems reported by owners. The braking system is critical for the safety of the vehicle, and any issues with the brakes can result in decreased stopping power and increased stopping distances.

The cause of braking issues in the Audi 80 can be due to several factors, including worn or damaged brake components, lack of maintenance, or manufacturing defects. To diagnose braking issues, a mechanic will typically perform a visual inspection and test the brake pads, rotors, and master cylinder. If the brakes are found to be faulty, they will need to be repaired or replaced.

In conclusion, the Audi 80 from the third generation (1986-1991) experienced several common issues, including ignition system problems, transmission problems, and braking issues. These issues can result in decreased performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, coolant checks, and transmission fluid checks, can help to prevent these issues and keep the car running smoothly. If any issues are suspected, it is important to seek professional help from a mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the problem.

1991 Audi 80 engine

Is the 1991 Audi 80 reliable?

All the Audi 80s are generally pretty reliable. Mechanically the 16v is the best option. They have a great engine in them and its only ever things like bushes, struts and suspension that goes. But these can be repaired fairly cheaply.

Is The Audi 80 A Good car?

The suspension does a commendable job of ironing out road-surface imperfections, and it's fairly quiet in the cabin on the move for an old car. It would still make for a great daily driver and one you'd quite happily clock significant mileage in without a second thought.

Are 90s Audis reliable?

Audi 90 Sport Quattro

Great all weather traction, ample power with the V6, and excellent reliability. Good value for the money new, and an even better value used. If you can find one of the newer vintage ones (94-95) with short miles, it will treat you right for a long, long time.

How many Audi 80 are left?

These stats won't show how many AUDI 80 were made or sold but they do show how many AUDI 80 are left on the road. There are 33,705,243 cars & other vehicles with valid MOTs. There are 848 AUDI 80 left in the UK with an MOT. 0.0025% of all UK vehicles are AUDI 80.

Is the 1991 Audi 80 reliable?

All the Audi 80s are generally pretty reliable. Mechanically the 16v is the best option. They have a great engine in them and its only ever things like bushes, struts and suspension that goes. But these can be repaired fairly cheaply.

Are Audi 80s reliable?

The engines are all fairly simple, so shouldn't give any issues, but ensure your prospect has received frequent oil changes. It's worth pointing out the B3 80 has a small three-litre oil reservoir, so listen for any nasty rattles that could indicate the car has been run on too little.

Are 90s Audis reliable?

Audi 90 Sport Quattro

Great all weather traction, ample power with the V6, and excellent reliability. Good value for the money new, and an even better value used. If you can find one of the newer vintage ones (94-95) with short miles, it will treat you right for a long, long time.

What kind of engine does Audi 80 have?

The S has a 1.8-litre inline-four-cylinder engine that puts out 76 kW (103 PS; 102 bhp) at 5500 rpm.

1991 Audi 80 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi 80 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Audi 80 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1991 Audi 80 complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Audi 80.

2007-09-04

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-08-24
  • VIN: WAUEC58A5MA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 AUDI 80. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH THE FRONT WHEELS LOCKED AND WOULD NOT UNLOCK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. EIGHT MONTHS BEFORE THE GEAR WAS STUCK IN REVERSE BUT EVENTUALLY RELEASED. THERE WAS A NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID 93V006000 (POWER TRAIN: AXLE ASSEMBLY), HOWEVER; THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 161,000.
1996-09-04

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-11-01
  • VIN: WAVEC58A3MA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION OVERHEATS/SHIFTS HARD.

1991 Audi 80 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1991 Audi 80.

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.

Positive 1991 Audi 80 car reviews

  1. Jensen Maggio 2024-02-17

    You've made an excellent choice with this car! It offers great value for money, with superior build quality compared to other cars in its class. Plus, it comes with a lot of standard equipment. The gearbox is fantastic and it drives like a much larger car. The stereo is also a nice touch.

Leave your review of 1991 Audi 80

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1991 Audi 80 problems:

Audi 80 2.0E ABK Bad fuel consumption, Ignition Failure, smell of fuel
Audi 80 2.0E ABK Bad fuel consumption, Ignition Failure, smell of fuel
https://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php/138409-Audi-80-2-0E-ABK-Bad-fuel-consumption-Ignition-Failure-smell-of-fuel

Oct 19, 2012 ... A common problem: Audi 80 2.0L ABK engine juddering/misfire - Page 5. There will be a lambda sensor, either on the front of cat convertor or ...

Common problems with E34 : r/E34
Common problems with E34 : r/E34
https://www.reddit.com/r/E34/comments/ft2cyr/common_problems_with_e34/

Apr 1, 2020 ... Audi 80 B3/B4 is the place to Go If you want an old Car with No Rust. Sadly, they Look rather boring and have either FWD or AWD. But they ...

Audi 80 buyers guide? - Audifans.net
Audi 80 buyers guide? - Audifans.net
http://www.audifans.net/ftopict-6138.html

thats a top bit of info. as i said earlier, i had a 16v mk2 golf and the gearbox went in that (common problem where a diff rivit pops out and ...

Should i buy an 1990 Audi 90 for 950$ : r/cars
Should i buy an 1990 Audi 90 for 950$ : r/cars
https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/1d9ni4/should_i_buy_an_1990_audi_90_for_950/

Apr 28, 2013 ... I've been a parts boarder for a while, so any common failure item had a replacement in my pile of VW golf/scirocco Audi 200/5000/4000/80/90 ...

1990 Audi 80 Quattro Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
1990 Audi 80 Quattro Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/audi/80-quattro/1990

Get 1990 Audi 80 Quattro repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Audi mechanics near you.

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