2001 Audi A4 problems
The Audi A4 is a line of luxury compact executive cars produced since 1994 by the German car manufacturer Audi, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. The A4 has been built in five generations and is based on the Volkswagen Group B platform. The first generation A4 succeeded the Audi 80. The automaker's internal numbering treats the A4 as a continuation of the Audi 80 lineage, with the initial A4 designated as the B5-series, followed by the B6, B7, B8, and the B9.
The B8 and B9 versions of the A4 are built on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform shared with several models and brands across the Volkswagen Group. The Audi A4 automobile layout consists of a front-engine design, with transaxle-type transmissions mounted at the rear of the engine. The cars are front-wheel drive, or on some models, "quattro" all-wheel drive. The A4 is available as a sedan and station wagon. Historically, the second (B6) and third generations (B7) of the A4 also included a convertible version. For the fourth generation (B8) and onwards, the convertible, along with a new coupé and 5-door liftback variant, was spun-off by Audi into a new nameplate called the Audi A5.
B5 (Typ 8D; 1994)
The first generation Audi A4 (known internally as the Typ 8D) debuted in October 1994, with production starting November 1994 and European sales commencing in January 1995 for the 1995 model year. North American sales later began in September 1995 for the 1996 model year. It was built on the Volkswagen Group B5 (PL45) platform, which it shared with the fourth generation Volkswagen Passat (B5, Typ 3B). It had a front-mounted longitudinal engine and front-wheel drive. Many variations of the A4 were also available with Audi's quattro four-wheel drive system. The A4 was initially introduced as a four-door saloon/sedan; the Avant (estate/wagon) was introduced in November 1995 and went on sale in February 1996.
Development began in 1988, with the first design sketches being created later that year. By 1991, an exterior design by Imre Hasanic was chosen and frozen for November 1994 production by 1992. The interior design was later finalized in 1992, with pilot production commencing in the first half of 1994. Development concluded in the third quarter of 1994, preceding November 1994 start of production.
A wide range of engines were available in European markets, between 1.6 and 2.8 litres for petrol engines; and a 1.9-litre diesel engine available with Volkswagen Group's VE technology, capable of achieving a 90 PS (66 kW; 89 bhp) or 110 PS (81 kW; 108 bhp). The 2.6 and 2.8-litre V6 engines which had been carried over from the old 80/90 proved popular, although in North America, the 2.8-litre engine was the only V6 that was available there until 1997. A 2.4-liter version was developed especially for the Thai market, where import duty jumped from 60 to 100 percent on cars of over 2,400 cc displacement.
The Audi A4 was the first model in the Volkswagen Group to feature the new 1.8-litre 20v engine with five valves per cylinder, based on the unit Audi Sport had developed for their Supertouring race car. A turbocharged 1.8T version produced 150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp) and 210 N⋅m (155 lb⋅ft) torque. Moreover, a quattro GmbH special edition of the B5 1.8T was later available in Germany and Europe, for which the engine's power output was raised to 180 PS (132 kW; 178 bhp) and 235 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft). Five-valve technology was also added to a reengineered V6 family of engines in 1997, starting with the 2.8-litre V6 30v, which now produced 193 PS (142 kW; 190 bhp), followed by a 2.4-litre V6 which was a downsize from the previous 2.6 litre, 150 hp (112 kW) engine, but with a power increase to 165 PS (121 kW; 163 bhp).
Audi also debuted their new tiptronic automatic transmission on the B5 platform, based on the unit Porsche developed for their 964-generation 911. The transmission is a conventional automatic gearbox with a torque converter offering the driver a fully-automatic operation or manual selection of the gear ratios.
The B5 marked Audi's continued move into the midsize luxury car segment, having started this trajectory notably with later model years of the preceding Audi 80/90 B4. Despite initial mechanical problems, overall build and assembly quality were lauded both by the automotive press and within Audi and Volkswagen, and at the time, parent company Volkswagen declared the B5 the company-wide build quality benchmark for all its other models.
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Common 2001 Audi A4 problems
The Audi A4, a popular luxury car, has been known to have several common problems across various model years. One of the most prevalent issues is excessive oil consumption, which has been reported by many drivers of the 2011 A4 model year.
Another common problem in the Audi A4 is engine failure, particularly in the 2002 A4 redesign. This issue has been attributed to timing tensioner failure, which can cause catastrophic internal damage to the engine when it jumps timing. The average repair cost for engine failure in the Audi A4 is $8,500, and it typically occurs around 66,000 miles.
Bad piston rings are another issue that has been reported in the Audi A4, specifically in the 2012 model year. This problem is expensive to fix, often requiring a complete engine replacement, and can occur as early as 48,000 miles.
The Audi A4 has also been known to have issues with its power steering pump and steering rack, particularly in the B6 model years (2000-2004). When buying a second-hand Audi A4 (B6), it is important to look out for groaning or whining noises from the power steering pump, play in the steering wheel, and noises when turning the steering wheel. These issues are often caused by low power steering fluid level or leaks from the power steering system.
In addition to these common problems, the Audi A4 has also been known to have issues with its cooling system and electrics, as well as vulnerabilities in the air-con system and Multitronic automatic gearbox. However, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and to consider the potential repair costs and maintenance needs of the vehicle.
What is the common problem with Audi A4?
Some of the common problems with the Audi A4 include: Gearbox problems. Airbag and seat belts fault. Seat backrest fault.
Is an Audi A4 a reliable car?
Are Audi A4s Reliable? RepairPal gives the A4 a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking it 14th out of 31 luxury midsize cars. The typical annual maintenance and repair cost for this model is $739, which is the average for luxury sedans.
How many miles will an Audi A4 engine last?
200,000 miles
Audis can typically go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained.
What year is the best used Audi A4?
Best Value for Money: 2018-2019
However, the high mileage of most 2001 Audi A4s could be off-putting. If that's the case, the A4 from 2018 to 2021 gets high marks for reliability, style, power, and safety, making it a great alternative if you want something newer or more modern.
What is the most common problem with Audi A4?
Audi A4 8 Common Problems
- Airbag Troubles. According to Car Problem Zoo, a website that compiles owner feedback, the most frequently reported issue with the A4 is related to its airbags. ...
- High Oil Consumption. ...
- Leaking Coolant. ...
- Transmission Woes. ...
- Flickering Headlights. ...
- Ignition Coil Issues.
Is the Audi A4 engine reliable?
The Audi A4 gets an average RepairPal rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 but suffers from higher repair costs. The Audi A4 is known to develop issues like carbon buildup in the intake system, failed fuel pumps, excessive oil consumption, premature wear on suspension parts, and engine failure.
Which Audi A4 engine is best?
For us, the sweet spots in the range are the 2.0-litre petrol with either 190 or 204hp – badged 40 TFSI – or the 2.0-litre diesel with 150 or 163hp – badged 35 TDI. These engines offer enough power to make the A4 feel relaxed at high speeds without needing to jump up to one of the stronger but pricier options.
How long do Audi A4 engines last?
Audis can typically go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained. They're fairly reliable cars, and Consumer Reports ranks them within the top 10 new car brands when it comes to reliability.
2001 Audi A4 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi A4 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Audi A4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Audi A4
The NHTSA has received 135 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Audi A4. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Audi A4 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-03
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Audi A4. The contact stated that upon closing the driver's side door, her husband heard a loud gun-like sound and he noticed that the passenger-side curtain air bags had deployed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact's husband cut the curtain air bags and drove the vehicle to his residence. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000. The VIN was not available.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WAUDH68D01A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2001 AUDI A4 QUATTRO 2.8L. AS DRIVING SMOKE WAS COMING FROM HOOD.. PARK AND REALIZE THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE. IT LOOK LIKE IT STARTED BY THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT AND SPREAD. I READ THAT AUDI HAD A RECALL ON HEAD LIGHT SWITCH BUT DID NOT REC, A RECALL LETTER. NOT EXACTLY SURE WHERE THE FIRE STARTED MY AUDI CAUGHT ON FIRE. I DONT'T HAVE PICTURES TO UPLOAD BUT I WILL SOON. I AM VERY HURT TO KNOW THAT THE CAR I ENJOYED DRIVING CAUGHT ON FIRE/DISAPPOINTED WITH AUDI
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-18
- VIN: WAUDC68DX1A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON A HIGHWAY GOING STRAIGHT AT ~65MPH THE PASSENGER SIDE CURTAIN AND SEAT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON. VEHICLE MANUFACTURER CITED A "CRASH" SIGNAL FROM SIDE IMPACT SENSOR WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FALSE DEPLOYMENT. NO PHYSICAL CAUSE COULD BE FOUND, NO DAMAGE WAS FOUND ON VEHICLE AND ALL AIRBAG SYSTEM WIRING WAS FOUND TO BE INTACT AND ORIGINAL. MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT OWN FAILURE AND CITED THE VEHICLE BEING LOWERED AS THE CAUSE. MANUFACTURER WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE ANY EVIDENCE FOR THIS CONCLUSION AND VEHICLE IS WELL WITHIN LOCAL LAWS/REGULATIONS FOR LOWERED VEHICLES.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-02
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKES WERE WORKING FINE, COMING OFF FREEWAY, WAS COASTING THRU LIGHT, TRAFFIC STOPPED, BRAKES NO LONGER WORKED, BRAKE PEDAL WAS SUDDENLY FLUSH WITH FLOOR. REARENDED A CAR, CAR STARTED JUMPING FORWARD. HAD TO USE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP THE CAR. CAR WAS TOWED AFTER ACCIDENT, NOT BECAUSE IT WAS NOT DRIVABLE, IT WAS NOT DRIVABLE DUE TO BRAKE PROBLEM. REPAIR SHOP SAID BRAKES FAILED TO VACUUM HOSE BREAKING, NO WARNING PRIOR TO LOSING BRAKES. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-23
- VIN: WAUDF78E47A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT (MIL) HAS HAD SEVERAL RECURRENCES. THE MASS AIR FLOW METER AND SENSOR HAVE BEEN REPLACED TWICE. ( 65,060 AND 107,894). THE INITIAL FAILURE WAS AT 36,512 MILES. 47,819 MILES, 65,060 MILES, 107,894 MILES,118,628 MILES AND IN JULY, 2014 AT 159,421 MILES, THERE WAS A WARRANTY EXTENSION LETTER IN NOVEMBER, 2003 THAT INCLUDED 2001 AUDI A-4 1.8T VEHICLES AND A VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE ACTION 28F2/J1 IGNITION COIL INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT IN OCTOBER, 2009. SECONDARY ISSUE. UNABLE TO READ DASHBOARD DISPLAY. PIXELED. UNABLE TO READ SAFETY/VEHICLE NOTIFICATIONS. *TR
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-30
- VIN: WAUDC68D51A
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE USING MY HEATER ON MY SEATS AND A PILLOW FOR ADDITIONAL BACK SUPPORT, I NOTICED SMOKE AND BURNING SMELL WHEN PULLING INTO MY DRIVEWAY. WHEN GETTING OUT OF MY CAR I NOTICED THAT MY PILLOW WAS LEAKING...AND UPON PULLING THE PILLOW OFF THE DRIVERS SEAT, IT WAS DAMAGED/BURNED THROUGH. I ALSO NOTICED THAT A BURNED HOLE THE SIZE OF A QUARTER IS NOW QUITE VISIBLE. WORRIED THAT THIS MAY CAUSE A CAR FIRE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-15
- VIN: WAUDH68D91A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 AUDI A4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABS WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WAS FLASHING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTICS WHERE THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE ECU MODULE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-03
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER 99% CANNOT BE READ DUE TO THE LCD DISPLAY FADING. HAVE DONE MULTIPLE SEARCHES AND 9 OUT OF 10 PEOPLE HAVE THIS SAME EXACT ISSUE. AUDI NEEDS TO STEP UP AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS ISSUE. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE AND NEEDS TO BE FIXED. THIS HAS BEEN A HUGE PAIN FOR ME BECAUSE SOMETIMES MY CAR WILL BEEP AND DISPLAY SOMETHING ON THE LCD SCREEN BUT BECAUSE IT'S FADING I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT IT'S TELLING ME. I DON'T WANT TO BE DRIVING AND SOMETHING LIFE THREATENING HAPPEN BECAUSE OF A MISSED MESSAGE BECAUSE THE LCD SCREEN IS BROKEN. FIX THIS BEFORE PEOPLE GET HURT AND START FILING LAWSUITS. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-04
- VIN: WAUKC68D11A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: IN 2007 XENON HEADLIGHTS DROPPED/DIPPED HEADLIGHT LEVEL SENSOR REPLACED AND LIGHTS APPEARED TO WORK CORRECTLY. IN 2011 THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED AGAIN. HEADLIGHT LEVELING SENSOR AND WIRING HARNESS REPLACED. APPEARS TO BE WORKING OK. DRIVING WITH THE HEADLIGHTS AIMED INCORRECTLY IS A DANGEROUS DRIVING CONDITION. IT APPEARS THAT THERE IS A COMMON DESIGN FLAW WITH THE XENON HEADLIGHTS. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-22
- VIN: WAUKC68D71A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WE HAVE EXPERIENCED AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH THE HID HEAD LIGHTS FLICKERING AND SHUTTING OFF DURING OPERATION AT NIGHT. THE LEFT LOW BEAM BEGAN TO FLICKER AND THEN SHUT OFF. THE HEAD LIGHT WARNING INDICATOR LIGHT COMES ON. AFTER INSPECTION THE NEXT DAY, LIGHTS CAME BACK ON AND WERE WORKING NORMALLY NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ON. THIS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS TYPE OF CAR AND IN MY OPINION A VERY DANGEROUS ONE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BY AUDI IN A RECALL FOR THE OBVIOUS BALLAST, BULB, WIRING, PROBLEM THAT EXISTS ON THIS CAR. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-07
- VIN: WAUDH68D31A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS MODULE FAILURE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-01
- VIN: WAUDC28D5YA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2001 AUDI A4 WITH TIMING BELT FAILURE AND REPAIR. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE TIMING BELT REPAIR DID NOT LAST AND HIS VEHICLE COMPLETELY FAILED ON THE HIGHWAY. CONSUMER WAS THEN INFORMED OF AN OIL SLUDGE ISSUE. *KB UPDATED 10/19/11.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WAUDC68DX1A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ALL AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY IN A DRIVER'S SIDE "T-BONE" COLLISION. A-4 IS EQUIPPED WITH SIDE AIRBAGS. A-4 WAS STATIONARY AND OCCUPIED, MINIVAN CRASHED INTO DRIVER'S DOOR AND PART OF FRONT QUARTER PANEL. VAN'S RATE OF TRAVEL WAS 20 TO 30 MPH IN REVERSE! MY WIFE SUFFERED NECK AND SHOULDER INJURIES. LOCAL AUDI DEALER REPLACED THE SIDE AIRBAG # 8D0 880 241 AA AND THE AIRBAG CONTROLLER MODULE # 8D0 959 655 G. ONLY AT MY INSISTENCE, WAS THIS WORK PERFORMED WHEN I CONTINUED TO QUESTION WHY NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. MY DIRECT QUESTIONS WERE MET WITH, "YOU KNOW, MORE INJURIES OCCUR WHEN AN AIRBAG GOES OFF, SO, YOUR WIFE IS PROBABLY LUCKIER THAT THEY DIDN'T WORK". WTF?! HEY BUDDY, LET'S PUT YOU IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT AND RAM MINIVAN INTO IT WITH THE SAME SPEED AND MASS! ALSO, REST YOUR ARM ON THE OPEN WINDOW AND SEE IF YOU DON'T LOSE AN ARM LIKE MY WIFE ALMOST DID. WHAT ARE THESE GUY'S TRYING TO COVER UP FOR AUDI?! HAS THERE BEEN A CORPORATE DECREE OF TOTAL LIABILITY AVOIDANCE WITH DECEIT BEING PUSHED DOWN TO THE DEALER LEVEL, OR ARE THEY JUST IDIOTS? I'M ALSO IN THE CLASS ACTION REGARDING THE OIL SLUDGE LAWSUIT. NOW THEY ARE DENYING 1/2 OF MY CLAIM BECAUSE THEY SAY I'M MISSING PROOF OF A SINGLE OIL CHANGE THAT SHOULD BE IN THE RECORDS OF THE DEALERSHIP THAT PERFORMED THE WORK, WHICH FOR SOME REASON ALL THE RECORDS PERTAINING TO THAT CRITICAL TIMELINE HAVE BEEN WIPED OFF AUDI'S CORPORATE COMUPTER SYSTEM. WHEN WILL IT ALL END? I'M ABOUT TO DRIVE THIS [XXX] CAROVER A CLIFF! ANY AUDI EXECS WANT TO GO FOR A RIDE? I FEEL I HAVE BEEN TAKEN FOR A LONG ENOUGH RIDE AFTER SOME $15,000 TO $20,000 IN REPAIRS OVER THE LAST 6 YEARS. LET'S HOPE OUR AIRBAGS WILL BE FREE FROM FAILURE IN THE EVENT OF A FUTURE ACCIDENT. SOMEONE ELSE'S EXPERIENCE HAS BEEN THAT SWITCHING OUT THE MODULE WITH THE SAME MODEL MODULE HAS NOT ELIMINATED THE PROBLEM COMPLETELY AND IT HAS RE-OCCURRED, I.E., RED LIGHT IN DASH COMING ON AGAIN AND FAILURE TO DEPLOY AIRBAGS IN CRASH. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *KB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-15
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 2001 AUDI A4 WITH ABOUT 105K MILES ON. ABS SENSOR IS FAULTY AND THIS PROBLEM IS VERY WIDESPREAD AMONGST AUDI A4S BUILT AROUND THIS TIME. IT IS A $1500 - $2000 REPAIR FOR A PART THAT REALLY DOESN'T SEEM TO GO BAD WITH THIS FREQUENCY IN OTHER CARS. FOR AN EXAMPLE OF THE SCORE, SEE THIS SITE. THIS IS JUST ONE OF MANY SITES WITH SIMILAR COMPLAINTS AROUND THIS ISSUE: HTTP://AUDI-VW-ABS-RECALL.BLOGSPOT.COM/2005/07/AUDI-AND-VW-PLEASE-RECALL-CARS-BETWEEN.HTML. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-01
- VIN: WAUDC68DX1A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2001 AUDI A4 AIR BAG LIGHT ON DASH. DEALER CHECKED AND STATED AIR BAG MODULE BAD. ORDER ONE AND WAS INSTALLED APRIL 27, 2010. PART # 8D0-959-655-G MODULE. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ITEM. CAN CAUSE AIR BAGS TO NOT DEPLOY. SHOULD LAST LONGER THAN IT DID. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-08
- VIN: WAUAC68DX1A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE DIGITAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY ON MY 2001 AUDI A4 1.8T. YOU CAN ONLY SEE HALF THE SCREEN ON THE CENTER DISPLAY THAT NOTIFIES YOU WHEN THE CAR NEEDS TO BE SERVICED AND IF ANY MAJOR PROBLEMS ARE OCCURRING I FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND AUDI SHOULD RECALL AND REPAIR ANY CARS WITH THIS MALFUNCTION BECAUSE I HAVE READ SEVERAL REVIEWS OF THE SAME PROBLEM SO OBVIOUSLY IT IS SOMETHING THEY SHOULD LOOK INTO. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-02
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 2001 AUDI A4 2.8 ABS BRAKE SYSTEM CONTROLLER FAILURE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-29
- VIN: WAUDH68D51A
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE GAS FUMES FROM CAR. DEALER AND OTHER SERVICE CENTER LOOKED FOR PROBLEM SEVERAL TIMES. AFTER CAR WAS UNFIT TO DRIVE - SMELLED SO BAD FROM GASOLINE FUMES - A SERVICE GARAGE REMOVED THE FUEL TANK. THE FUEL WAS SEEPING THROUGH MOLDED IN PLASTIC CONNECTION FITTINGS ON TOP OF THE TANK AT THEIR MOLDED INTERFACE TO THE TANK - THE TANK IS A POLY TYPE TANK. THE TANK WAS REPLACED. THIS IS CLEARLY A DESIGN DEFECT. HAD THE FUMES BEEN NEAR AN IGNITION SOURCE A POSSIBLE FIRE OR WORSE COULD HAVE RESULTED. IT IS MY OPINION THAT THE DISSIMILAR MATERIALS USED FOR THE TANK AND FITTINGS LOST THEIR SEAL OVER TIME. AUDI OF AMERICA HAS SHOWN NO INTEREST IN DEALING WITH THIS. SINCE THERE WERE 4 FUEL TANKS AVAILABLE ON A FRIDAY AND ON THE FOLLOWING MONDAY, THERE WERE NONE, SO I HAD TO WAIT UP TO 2 ADDITIONAL WEEKS TO GET A TANK - I SUSPECT THEY ARE KEENLY AWARE OF THIS DEFECT. THIS CAR HAS BEEN GARAGE KEPT, I AM ORIGINAL OWNER, AND IT HAS NO ACCIDENTS. I HAVE THE ORIGINAL FAILED FUEL TANK AT THIS TIME. DATE OF REPAIR 6/29/09 TO 7/21/09. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-06
- VIN: WAUDC68D21A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS CONTROL MODULE FAILED. MODULES ARE DEFECTIVE AND AUDI SHOULD RECALL THEM. ONLINE RESEARCH SHOWS THOUSANDS OF AUDI/VW CAR OWNERS HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS SAME PROBLEM. COST TO REPLACE MODULE IS $1500-2000 DOLLARS. VW HAS ISSUED RECALL OF THIS ABS MODULE, BUT AUDI HAS NOT (EVEN THOUGH SAME EXACT PART). NHTSA NEEDS TO PUT PRESSURE ON AUDI TO RECALL THIS COMPONENT, THEY ARE DEFECTIVE, UNSAFE, AND COULD LEAD TO ACCIDENTS. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-10
- VIN: WAUDC68D91A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 AUDI A4. HE STATED THAT THE ANTILOCK BREAKS SENSOR ILLUMINATES CONSTANTLY. HE HAD THE GARAGE REPLACED THE BREAK SENSOR TWICE. THE FIRST REPLACEMENT WAS DONE ON JANUARY 10, 2010 AND THE SECOND BREAK SENSOR REPLACEMENT WAS FEBRUARY 16, 2010 AND THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 102,034. HE HAS NOT CONTACTED THE DEALER OR MANUFACTURER.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-01
- VIN: WAUDH68D71A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 2001 AUDI A4 HAS CENTRAL LCD DISPLAY TO DISPLAY ALL SORT OF INFORMATION, BUT THIS DISPLAY FAILS IN MOST OF A4S JUST AFTER A FEW YEARS. THIS IS CRITICAL FOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BECAUSE THIS CAR DOES NOT HAVE ANY OTHER INDICATORS TO SIGNAL ABNORMAL CONDITIONS OF THE CAR SUCH AS LOW COOLANT, CHECK ENGINE, ETC. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN KNOWN MORE THAN FIVE YEARS, BUT THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN RESPONSIBLE. PLEASE LOOK AT HTTP://AUDIFORUMS.COM/FORUM/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=46512 FOR OTHER PEOPLE'S COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-10
- VIN: WAUDC68D91A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: FAILURE OF ABS BRAKE CONTROL UNIT IN AN AUDI 2001 A4 WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY WITH SNOW. IT OCCURRED IN SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH. ABS BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE ABS BRAKES WEREN'T WORKING DRIVING ON SNOW AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. $710.00 WAS THE COST OF THE REPAIR FOR A FAULTY UNIT AND A VERY COMMON PROBLEM THAT AUDI KNOWS ABOUT IT. GOOD THING THAT I WAS GOING REALLY SLOW AND I WAS EXITING THE SLIPPERY FREEWAY AT THE TIME AND I DIDN'T SLIDE. THANK YOU! *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-13
- VIN: WAUDC68D41A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 1. ONE DAY SUDDENLY MY AUDI 2001 A4 STARTS TO SHOW ABS AND BRAKE LIGHT TO BE FAILING. 2. THE FAILURE WHEN DIAGNOSED SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH AUDI'S ABS CONTROL UNIT, AND THAT NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED. 3. I HAVE NOT REPAIRED IT YET, BECAUSE DEALERS QUOTED A HUGE PRICE OF MORE THAN 1500$ TO FIX THE ABS CONTROL UNIT. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-01
- VIN: WAUDH68D51A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG CONTROLLER FAILS WITH NO APPARENT REASON. UNIT GENERATES AN UNCLEAR FAULT CODE (65535) WHEN TEMPERATURE DROPS BELOW 32 DEGREES. THIS WILL NOT ALLOW THE AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. MODULE HAS BEEN REPLACED, AND THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED AGAIN LESS THAN A YEAR LATER. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-31
- VIN: WAUDC68D71A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE LCD INSTRUMENT DISPLAY IS "PIXILATED" -- UNABLE TO CLEARLY DISPLAY INFORMATION REGARDING THE STATUS OF THE VEHICLE, INCLUDING SAFETY-RELATED INFORMATION SUCH AS FAILURE OF SAFETY-RELATED COMPONENTS (ANTI-LOCK BRAKES ETC.). THIS COULD LEAD TO A CRASH OR PREVENT THE TIMELY RESPONSE TO A SAFETY-RELATED PROBLEM. ON-LINE FORUMS INDICATE THAT THIS IS A FREQUENT PROBLEM WITH AUDI A4S. *TR
2001 Audi A4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2001 Audi A4.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2000-2001 Audi TT Coupe, TT Roadster, 2000-2002 A4, and S4 vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators (NADI) that do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, possibly causing the air bag to deploy improperly in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, the air bag may not properly protect the occupant, increasing the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver frontal airbag inflator with an alternative inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69CJ.
- Manufacturer: The Gates Corporation
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.
- Consequence: A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
Negative 2001 Audi A4 car reviews
Positive 2001 Audi A4 car reviews
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We had a great experience buying this car. However, our experience with a different dealer for maintenance (Royal Motors in SF) has been quite unpleasant. It seems that Audi dealer mechanics are bonused based on customer feedback, which we were not aware of when we filled out the Audi feedback letter after our 1st service at Royal Motors. Unfortunately, our low feedback score has negatively impacted one of the mechanics' compensation, and we received a voice mail from him complaining about it. Additionally, every time we go back, we receive passive-aggressive treatment from the employees, with petty comments like 'I see you gave ___ a low score' years after that feedback was submitted.
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I love my Audi A4! I've had it for almost 1.5 years and have driven just over 30k miles without a single issue!
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This car is a blast to drive, whether you prefer a leisurely pace or a more spirited one. It's an ideal car for long road trips with just two people, although it can feel a bit cramped with four. The handling is superb, with minimal understeer even at the limit, especially if you opt for the sport suspension. If you're mindful of the turbo, you can expect excellent fuel mileage, averaging around 26-27 mpg and up to 30 mpg on the highway. The interior design is top-notch, and there's plenty of room up front for larger individuals (I'm 6'3
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Hello! I just wanted to share my experience with cars. I used to be loyal to American car makers, but after driving a 1999 1.8T, I decided to switch. I pulled it off the used market and decided to keep it after a month. I am now a proud owner of a 2001 2.8 and I am amazed at the improvement over the crisp performance of the 99 1.8T. Its styling is timeless and classic, and in my opinion, it belongs with such classic designs as the 57 Chevy, 67 Mustang, among others. This car is definitely a keeper. If you're interested in buying a used one, I recommend buying certified. Thank you for reading!
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You're getting about 25 mpg altogether, which is pretty good! I love the feeling of acceleration you get when you step on it in second or third, as well as the nice whistling whoosh from the engine at about 3,000 rpm. The seats are really comfortable, and the climate control is superb. It's great to hear that you haven't had any problems with this car, aside from a bent rim and an intake leak, especially since many other Audi owners have. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Audi A4 problems:
2001 Audi A4 Quattro Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
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Other years of Audi A4
Are you having problems with your 2001 Audi A4?
Nicklaus Schmidt 2025-02-16
I purchased my 2001 Audi A4 1.8T back in November of 2010. It has been almost a year and a half since then, and I am happy to report that I have been able to keep it running smoothly. Of course, as with any car, there have been some minor repairs needed along the way. For example, I had to replace a flex pipe after just four months of ownership, which cost me $250 in parts and labor. At the one-year mark, I needed to change some hoses, adjust the boost value for the turbo, and fix a leak in the brake assembly. These repairs cost me a total of $250 in parts and labor. And just recently, at the 15-month mark, I had to fix the turn signal relay and one of my rear bearings, which cost me $350 in parts and labor. All in all, I have spent $850 on repairs, not including regular maintenance items like brake pads, windshield wipers, tires, and oil changes.
Clint Johns 2025-02-12
For the first 2 years, it was great. However, after that, I experienced some issues with the engine coils, gas sensor, temperature gauge, and cam seal oil leak. The dealership fixed the cam seal three times, but unfortunately, the instrument panel also went bad. Based on my experience, I would not recommend this car to anyone as it is not reliable.
Dimitri Ruecker 2025-02-06
Certified does not guarantee reliability. Despite owning my car for only 9 months, it has been in the shop at least 5 times, including an engine rebuild within the first 1000 miles. While the car rides and handles well, and was a good purchase price, the service experience has been a nightmare. As a result, I have decided to return to Saab.
Xavier Leffler 2025-01-03
I purchased this car brand new in 2001, and it came with the sport package. I even put in a chip to enhance its performance. When it's not at the mechanic, it drives fantastically! However, I have had to take it in for repairs quite a bit, and I have a thick file of records to prove it. Unfortunately, it chews up tires every 20k miles, regardless of the brand, and even with consistent tire rotation. At 90k miles, the engine blew, but thankfully Audi replaced it after I provided documentation of oil changes every 5k miles. I have had to replace several parts, including wheel bearings, tie rods, timing belt, hoses, sensors, the turbo at 160k, battery, alternator, and more. Despite all of this, I still love driving it, and I can't find another car with the same combination of performance, mileage, utility, AWD, and class.
Enos Marks 2024-11-10
Nice car! It's European, handsome, and drives nicely, especially the manual. It feels safe. Unfortunately, the timing belt broke at only 68k miles, causing engine damage and costing me $6,000. I drive my car very carefully, so it's disappointing that the manual recommends changing the belt at 100k+ miles. Overall, though, I still enjoy driving this car.