2020 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 2020 Audi A4 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Audi A4 2020, several common problems have been reported:
- Electrical Problems:
- The Audi A4 2020 has been associated with electrical problems, as indicated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Unfortunately, specific details regarding the nature of these electrical issues are not provided in the search results.
- Suspension Problems:
- Another common problem reported by owners of the Audi A4 2020 is related to suspension issues. The NHTSA has noted a suspension problem with this vehicle, although specific details about the exact nature of the problem are not outlined in the search results.
- Miscellaneous Problems:
- Additionally, there have been miscellaneous problems reported by owners of the Audi A4 2020. The NHTSA has recorded one such miscellaneous issue, but the specific details about this problem are not elaborated upon in the search results.
These problems highlight some of the key concerns that owners of the Audi A4 2020 have faced. It is important for Audi A4 owners to be aware of these common issues to ensure timely maintenance and repairs to address any potential problems with their vehicles.
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.
Are 2020 Audis reliable?
According to J.D. Power, the Audi Q5 offers 3/5 in terms of reliability. That puts it squarely in the "average" category, meaning that it will deliver luxurious performance with predictable reliability.
How long will an Audi A4 engine 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.
What year is good for Audi A4?
Most Reliable Audi A4 Years: Third Generation (Sold: 2006-2008) The third-generation (B7) of the Audi A4 incorporates a reworking of the B6 platform more than an all-new model.
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.
Are 2020 Audis reliable?
According to J.D. Power, the Audi Q5 offers 3/5 in terms of reliability. That puts it squarely in the "average" category, meaning that it will deliver luxurious performance with predictable reliability.
What year is good for Audi A4?
Most Reliable Audi A4 Years: Third Generation (Sold: 2006-2008) The third-generation (B7) of the Audi A4 incorporates a reworking of the B6 platform more than an all-new model.
Is the new Audi A4 reliable?
The 2024 Audi A4 has a predicted reliability score of 77 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
2020 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
- Unknown or other problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Audi A4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Audi A4 complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Audi A4.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-13
- VIN: WAUDNAF43LA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This safety issue concerns the MMI system. In my state of MA we cannot use a cell phone while driving. The car's MMI system does not connect to the MMI and hands free calling cannot be done. The dealership and Audi have indicated there is no fix for this. The MMI does not currently have any functionality inclusive of various car warnings.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-30
- VIN: WAUDNAF49LA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Emergency Call SOS module function is inoperative. Cannot use the SOS function and hands-free cell phone use through Bluetooth is also inoperative. Went to dealer on 8/31/22 for repair/replacement of module as instructed in Audi Service Action 90T2. I was told the repair is covered by the vehicle warranty. Part is still back-ordered (as of 11/25.2022) and no one can tell me when, or if, it will be available. No ETA as of today. In the meantime I am driving an unsafe vehicle, with no SOS call function, and no hands-free cell phone feature available.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-06
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WAUGMAF43LN
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Audi A4. The contact stated that while pulling out of a parking space, there was big rock next to the bumper on the front passenger's side of the vehicle and there was a scallop area with stones next to the passenger's side of the vehicle as well. The contact stated that she lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the scallop area and the vehicle was stuck between the scallop area and the big rock. There was no further information provided. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact did not sustained any injuries and did not seek medical assistance. The contact was able to release the vehicle with the assistance of road side assistance. A police report was not filed. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light, the low oil warning light and other unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to drive the vehicle for approximately 1 mile; however the warning message "Do Not Drive" illuminated. The contact notified the dealer of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the oil pan was fractured and needed to be replaced. The dealer repaired the oil pan and towed the vehicle to the collision shop, where it was repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V295000 (SUSPENSION), which she associated with the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they would follow up with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000.
2020 Audi A4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2020 Audi A4.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
- Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A disabled passenger air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the connecting cable and either the heating mat or entire seat cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 74E3. This recall is an expansion of Recall 19V-547 (74D9). Vehicles previously repaired under 19V-547 will need to return for the new remedy.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
- Consequence: A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the lock nuts and, if necessary, the associated bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 4, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L1.
Negative 2020 Audi A4 car reviews
Positive 2020 Audi A4 car reviews
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I've owned a BMW 3-series and 3 Infiniti products before switching to my A4 in 2020. I was lucky enough to get a great deal on a dealer loaner with only 3k miles on it, so I got a like-new vehicle with a steep discount. I have to say, this is the best car I've ever owned! While I do wish it had a touch-screen MMI, the newer models have rectified that. The fit and finish of the cabin are better than my Infinitis and miles ahead of the BMW I owned. The tech and driver instrument cluster are top-notch. I'm most impressed with the performance of the 248HP I4 and the A7 transmission. It's an absolute pleasure to drive! While I don't take many trips outside of my hometown, the few road trips up and down California's highways have produced 36 MPG+ performance. It's an excellent value and, again, just a pleasure to drive on the highway.
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This car accelerates, brakes, and handles like a champ. Overall, it's a great sedan, and with the Quattro system, you can drive with confidence even in wet conditions. The cruise control paired with adaptive speed is also very relaxing when you're forced to drive in traffic.
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I've been driving my Audi A4 for almost a year now, and I'm thrilled with my purchase. It has great style, a firm driving experience, good mpg, quick acceleration, modern technology, and a reasonable price. Although there have been a couple of instances of infotainment failure that have bothered me a little, there's really nothing to worry about. If you're in the market for an entry-level small luxury sedan, this should definitely be one of your considerations.
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This car is an absolute pleasure to drive, whether on the highway or winding roads. The acceleration is smooth and quick, and the gas mileage is hard to beat. It makes me want to drive everywhere instead of flying these days. The perfect balance of sportiness and luxury makes it a joy to handle, feeling like it's on rails. As long as I don't experience any serious issues with this car, I will drive it until one of us drops. It's definitely worth looking after this car. It's my favourite car, and maybe my last as well. The only complaint I have is that there could be a tad more room in the trunk for a golf bag straight and not diagonal. The finish of this car is beyond impeccable, showcasing German engineering at its finest. Wow! It's not a utility vehicle, so don't expect that. Try passing someone with this car, then hit the brake, and you'll see what I mean. I'm impressed at what a 2l 4 cylinder can do, and now I'm a believer! You're going to love it.
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I've had the car for over 3 years now and it's been great! I've never needed any repairs and it runs smoothly. It has a lot of power for everyday use around town and on the expressway. I highly recommend it!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Audi A4 problems:
My 2020 A4 has been in the shop 3 times since I purchased new ...
Nov 27, 2021 ... My 2020 A4 has ... problems. Thankfully it's all been covered ... Half the problem is Audi has a very strict guideline to doing Warranty repairs.
2020 Audi A4 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Audi A4? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Question Bout Audi A4 Reliability? : r/Audi
Nov 29, 2023 ... I was thinking about buying a 2020. Also does one drive smoother than the other? Witch one has more common maintenance problems? The price ...
A4 B9 Common Issues - Forum
Manny_Fresh said: 06-26-2020 09:55 AM. A4 ... 10' Audi A4 2.0T P+ Meteor Grey APR stg2, ... Are there any common problems with the B9 A4? I read this once ( ...
How many of you A4 owners have had reliability issues ...
Feb 6, 2021 ... I've become an Audi fanboy but my A4 does everything well. ... 2020 A4) will do. Our prior A6 (2006) had ... WP/thermostat known issue and while ...
Other years of Audi A4
Are you having problems with your 2020 Audi A4?
Jarod McGlynn 2024-10-10
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2019 Audi A4. Overall, I really enjoy the car's strong engine, comfortable seating, and nice tech features and sound system. The interior is also really nice! However, I have noticed that the car tends to drift on concrete roadways, which can be a bit unnerving. Living in southern California, where many of the main roadways are paved in concrete, this has been a bit of a challenge. While it's disappointing that this issue has not been resolved, I'm still grateful for the car's other great features. Thanks for listening!
Dell Hagenes 2024-07-06
My 2020 A4 Audi has experienced issues with the CarPlay feature twice in the past 11 months. Despite the inconvenience of having to wait for a part to be shipped from Germany, I am confident in the expertise of the mechanics and trust that they will resolve the issue. Although the car has only 15,400 miles on it, I am confident that the issue will be resolved and I will be able to enjoy my Audi to the fullest.
Brent Morissette 2024-03-23
I have leased two A4s and unfortunately, both have had serious issues with the MMI system. Despite my 2020 A4 being less than a year old and having only 4500 miles on it, the MMI system completely failed and required a new computer component to be ordered and replaced. While the MMI system controls everything from Bluetooth to the garage door opener and back up camera, my satellite radio was the only feature that continued to work as it operates under a separate system. Similarly, my 2017 Audi A4 had ongoing issues with the MMI system throughout the 3 1/2 years that I had it, with different areas of the system sporadically stopping working. Additionally, the whole MMI system was down for 3 1/2 days for an upgrade, which seems excessive. As a loyal Audi customer who has leased 7 cars from you, I am disappointed with the ongoing issues with the MMI system and am unsure if I will continue to lease from Audi in the future.
Joan Schroeder 2024-02-22
The motor performance is good, with a 2 liter turbo charged engine that produces adequate power. The continuously variable transmission is a proven technique that works well. The suspension is fair, despite the low profile tires. Overall, the technical aspects of the car are sound. However, the car's ergonomics leave something to be desired. The driver's door opening is quite small, making it somewhat difficult to get in and out of the car, especially for older folks. Additionally, the car lacks some features that are standard in similarly equipped Mercedes and BMW models, such as an SD card outlet and CD player. The MMI system is touch screen only, with limited technical selections. On the plus side, the car has one USB 2 type outlet in the front part of the middle console and one USB A type under the armrest, as well as two charger outlets for back seat passengers.The Mercedes-Benz has satellite radio, including Sirius, which allows me to listen to radio stations from all over the world. However, the Audi does not have this feature. Additionally, the cost of internet-related services for Audi is almost three times more expensive than for the Mercedes, and requires a fairly new cell phone to download the program. On the other hand, the MB (called MBrace) works perfectly well with a three-year-old phone. While small things like the garage door opener could be a huge issue with the Audi, the MB has better convenience features, even in the basic models. I have driven thousands of miles in Europe and can attest that similarly priced BMW models are incomparably better than the A4 Premium Plus in terms of convenience and ergonomics. Both the MB and BMW are superior to this car! It is important to note that this car is not designed for making changes while driving, as it can be inconvenient, complex, and dangerous. The storage places for this car are less than adequate, with the glove compartment being just that; a place for your gloves. At the driver's door side of the steering wheel, there is a long, narrow storage compartment for AAA type maps or similar size things, and the owner's manual pouch fits there as well.The armrest contains a phone charger, but it's best not to store anything there due to the narrow sides. In case of sudden braking, items may fly under the gas/brake pedals. The two cup holders are a better option for storage. Unfortunately, the door pockets are small and inconvenient. While I have owned many cars, I cannot recall one with such poor interior design. However, I prioritize technical aspects over gadgets and find the basic comfort and practicalities acceptable in other vehicles I have driven. This car's technical parts are designed well for transportation from point A to point B, but the interior design leaves much to be desired.
Karl Mitchell 2024-02-05
I recently leased a 2019 A4 after considering BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, and Genesis. The interior of the car is quite nice, although I was surprised by the lack of storage space and the quality of the leather. While the turbo 4 engine and dual clutch transmission provide adequate acceleration, the engine can feel a bit lumpy at lower RPMs. Additionally, there is an abrupt lurch to the left when accelerating from a stop, which can make every stop sign feel like a wrestling match with the steering wheel. The auto-stop-start feature is also quite rough and intrusive, much more so than Mercedes. Overall, I find the driving experience to be less than enjoyable and I wish my lease was shorter. It's worth noting that I don't believe Audi is planning on making any major changes to the drivetrain in 2020, so potential buyers should be aware of this.