1996 Audi A8 problems
The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Audi since 1994. Succeeding the Audi V8, and now in its fourth generation, the A8 has been offered with both front- or permanent all-wheel drive—and in short- and long-wheelbase variants. The first two generations employed the Volkswagen Group D platform, with the current generation deriving from the MLB platform. After the original model's 1994 release, Audi released the second generation in late 2002, the third in late 2009, and the fourth and current iteration in 2017. Noted as the first mass-market car with an aluminium chassis, all A8 models have used this construction method co-developed with Alcoa and marketed as the Audi Space Frame.
A mechanically upgraded, high-performance version of the A8 debuted in 1996 as the Audi S8. Produced exclusively at Audi's Neckarsulm plant, the S8 is fitted standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. The S8 was only offered with a short-wheelbase for the first three generations, being joined by a long-wheelbase variant for the fourth generation.
D2 (Typ 4D; 1994–2002)
Development
In 1982, Ferdinand Piëch signed an agreement with Aluminum Company of America. The objective was to design and develop a car that would be substantially lighter than any other vehicles in its class (to compensate for the fact that standard all-wheel drive was around 100 kg (220 lb) heavier than competitors' rear-wheel drive). In the late 1980s, it was decided that the target vehicle would be a successor to the V8 (Typ 4C) flagship introduced in 1988. By 1990, a final design by Chris Bird and Dirk van Braeckel was chosen and frozen for series production in mid-1991. In September 1993, the Audi Space Frame (ASF) Concept was unveiled at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) as a D2 Typ 4D prototype in polished aluminum. Pilot production began in December 1993 and development ended in early 1994, at a total cost of $700 million (£418.1 million).
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Common 1996 Audi A8 problems
The Audi A8 D2, produced from 1994 to 2002, is known for its reliability and high-quality engines. However, like any car, it can have issues, especially as it ages. Here are some common problems based on complaints from Audi A8 D2 owners:
- Oil Leaks: The pre-facelift A8 D2 models, equipped with the 32V motor, are more prone to oil leaks than later models.
- Transmission Failure: Both pre-facelift and facelift models are known for high-mileage transmission failures, typically between 130,000 and 190,000 miles.
- Check Engine Light: If the check engine light is on, the issue might not be as expensive as claimed. It could be a loose gas cap, a transmission/engine issue, or any other problem, just like with any used car of any brand.
- Interior Electrical Issues: Some Audi A8 D2 owners have reported issues with interior electronics, such as blower motors always being on, mysterious starting problems, and central locking door switches not working.
- Engine Problems: Diesel engines, such as the 2.5 TDI, can have issues with increased cylinder head shots, imminent cylinder head repairs, pressurization of the intake and fuel line, and faulty glow plugs in the ignition system . The control unit and wiring in the ignition system can also fail, and the mass airflow sensors have a relatively small resource .
- Timing Belt Service: The timing belt should be replaced officially every 105,000 miles, but some owners recommend shorter mileage or every 6 years.
It is essential to thoroughly inspect any used Audi A8 D2 for these common issues before purchasing. A clean engine, with no sludge in the oil spout on the driver side valve cover, and complete service records are good indicators of a well-maintained vehicle.
Are old Audi A8 reliable?
According to carparts.com, the Audi A8 will last 200,000 miles, or around 20 years, without severe repairs. It's a solid vehicle that exists to last under your ownership. However, care for your car to ensure it will last as long as possible.
How long do Audi A8 engines last?
Audis can go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained.
Is The Audi A8 A Good car?
Audi A8 Rankings
The 2024 Audi A8's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Large Cars category. Currently the Audi A8 has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
What are the common issues with Audi A8 d3?
Audi A8 Common Problems and Solutions
- Water in Footwell. Problem: ...
- Timing Chain Rattle. Problem: ...
- Electronic handbrake problems. Problem: ...
- Air temperature sensor failure. Problem: ...
- MMI (Multi Media Interface) problems. Problem: ...
- Door micro switch failure. Problem: ...
- Loss of Power Steering. Problem: ...
- Bumpy Driving. Problem:
Are old Audi A8 reliable?
According to carparts.com, the Audi A8 will last 200,000 miles, or around 20 years, without severe repairs. It's a solid vehicle that exists to last under your ownership. However, care for your car to ensure it will last as long as possible.
Is The Audi A8 A Good car?
Audi A8 Rankings
The 2024 Audi A8's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Large Cars category. Currently the Audi A8 has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
How long do Audi A8 engines last?
How Many Miles Does an Audi Last? Audis can go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained.
What are the common issues with Audi A8 d3?
Audi A8 Common Problems and Solutions
- Water in Footwell. Problem: ...
- Timing Chain Rattle. Problem: ...
- Electronic handbrake problems. Problem: ...
- Air temperature sensor failure. Problem: ...
- MMI (Multi Media Interface) problems. Problem: ...
- Door micro switch failure. Problem: ...
- Loss of Power Steering. Problem: ...
- Bumpy Driving. Problem:
1996 Audi A8 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi A8 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Audi A8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Audi A8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Audi A8.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-01
- VIN: WAUBG34D9WN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE FRONT ROTORS ON THE 1998 AUDI A8 WARP AFTER VERY SHORT USAGE. WE HAVE COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER AND THEY HAVE RESURFACED THE ROTORS, AND THE PROBLEM QUICKLY RE-OCCURS. THIS CAUSES MILD TO SEVERE STEERING WHEEL OSCILLATION UNDER MODERATE BRAKING, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LIFT UP ON BRAKES. AUDI DEALER, AND MANUFACTURER SHOULD REPLACE COMPONENTS WITH ADEQUATE DISC SUCH THAT THERE IS NO REOCCURRENCE. CAN CAUSE EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES AND STEERING ERRORS. *AK
1996 Audi A8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 Audi A8.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 13,900 MY 1996-2003 AUDI A8 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE LOCKING CABLE MAY MOVE OUT OF POSITION OVER TIME. WITH THE LOCKING CABLE OUT OF POSITION, THE SHIFTER CAN BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION EVEN IF THE IGNITION KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION LOCK.
- Consequence: THIS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL, CAUSING A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION LOCKING CABLE BY INSTALLING AN ADJUSTING PIECE THAT WILL SECURE THE LOCKING CABLE IN PLACE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE DISCHARGE OF STATIC ELECTRICITY UNDER LOW HUMIDITY CONDITIONS CAN ACTIVATE THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WHEN THE DRIVER ENTERS OR EXITS THE VEHICLE AND FORMS AN ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT BY TOUCHING CERTAIN AREAS OF THE STEERING WHEEL.
- Consequence: ACTIVATION OF THE AIR BAG UNDER THESE CONDITIONS CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A GROUND WIRE ON THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Audi A8 problems:
Known issues if I buy a D2 A8? - AudiWorld Forums
Feb 23, 2012 ... BIG difference between pre-facelift and facelift A8's...97-99 or 00-03. Timing belt service (easier on facelift)...officially (Audi) every 105K ...
Reliability of a 1997 Audi A8 4.2 Quattro | Audi-Sport.net
Oct 24, 2003 ... ... 1996 4.2 quattro sport, 110000 miles. There are some common faults with A8's to be aware of. First up is common to all A6 & A8 quattros ...
Can an Audi A8 last 300,000 miles? - Quora
Sep 25, 2018 ... Audis are not generally known for being 300k-mile cars. That's a number that is more commonly reached by Japanese cars and American trucks. Old ...
What are common issues with the B5 Platform - Forum
Mar 31, 2022 ... Hello and welcome to the Audizine Forums! As a guest, you are welcome to poke around and view the majority of the content that we have to offer, ...
Are the Audi 2.0 TDI engines really as unreliable as I keep reading ...
Mar 25, 2017 ... Are Audi issues really as bad, expensive and common ... The problem is, a large portion of A8/S8 ... There have been zero problems with the engine ...
Other years of Audi A8
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