1999 Audi A8 problems

General information about Audi-A8
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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 1999 Audi A8 problems

The 1999 Audi A8, particularly the D2 version, has several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. These issues are based on complaints from owners and can help you make an informed decision when considering purchasing this car.

Engine reliability: The 2.8-liter V6 engine is generally reliable, but the 4.2-liter V8 can be expensive to maintain, with high operating costs. Both engines have distributed fuel injection, making them suitable for gas equipment installation, but restoring valve seats after long-term gas use can be costly .
Body electronics: While not a major issue, some Audi A8 D2 owners have reported problems with body electronics, such as the central locking system or window regulators. These issues can be frustrating but are generally less expensive to repair than major mechanical problems.

Interior: Some owners have reported issues with the interior, such as faulty seat controls or malfunctioning climate control systems. These problems can affect the overall driving experience and may require replacement parts or professional repair.

In conclusion, while the Audi A8 D2 is a luxurious and capable vehicle, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and their potential costs. Proper maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues, but they should be considered when purchasing a used Audi A8 D2.

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 1998 Audi A8 reliable?

Overall the car is very reliable. It does have some issues. The main one being the Torque Converter. The transmission itself is not an issue it is the lockup function of the torque converter.

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.

Are old Audi A8 reliable?

Is the 1998 Audi A8 reliable?

Overall the car is very reliable. It does have some issues. The main one being the Torque Converter. The transmission itself is not an issue it is the lockup function of the torque converter.

Is The Audi A8 A Good car?

Audi A8 Rankings

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.

1999 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:

Electrical system problems
Power train problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Structure problems
Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Audi A8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1999 Audi A8 complaints

The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Audi A8.

2022-11-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-11-28
Fire: 1
VIN: Waubg34d7xn
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
Summary: After water damage to the bottom level of the seat an electrical fire started. It burned through and melted the plastic facing on the right side of the seat near the seat adjustment mechanism releasing toxic fumes we have so far been unable to abate. The manufacturer has been unresponsive in addressing this hazard. The damage is available for inspection. The toxic fumes are a health hazard as was the fire. The dealer inspected the damage and refused to repair it. The Bureau of Auto Repairs in California also inspected the damage. There were no warning lights activated.

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2022-01-10

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-01-10
VIN: waubg34d7xn
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: 1999 AUDI A8. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO FAULTY AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE AT THE DEALERSHIP AWAITING A RECALL REPAIR, THE VEHICLE WAS FLOODED DUE TO A RAINSTORM. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE DEALERSHIP DENIED ANY RESPONSIBLITY, OTHER THAN THE INSURRANCE DEDUCTIBLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER DID NOT TAKE ANY PREVENTIVE EFFORTS TO SAVE THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE.

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2015-08-10

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-08-10
VIN: WAUBG34D0XN
Components: TIRES
Summary: AFTER INSPECTING MY MICHELIN PRIMACY MXV4 TIRES ON MY AUDI A8 I BECAME ALARMED ABOUT EXCESIVE SIDEWALL CRACKING AND SEARCHED FOR RECALLS...NONE? BEGAN READING COMPLAINTS AND NOTICED MANY OTHER SIDEWALL "DRYROT" ISSUES. WILL TAKE BACK TO RETAILER TO SEEK HELP!? HOPE TO PREVENT A BLOWOUT!

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2013-02-18

POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2012-01-28
VIN: WAUBG34D1XN
Components: POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: MINE IS A WELL-MAINTAINED, NEAR-PRISTINE, LOW-MILEAGE CAR. WITHOUT WARNING OR PRIOR INDICATION OF A PROBLEM, THE TRANSMISSION SUDDENLY CEASED TO OPERATE CORRECTLY WHILE TRAVELING ON A BUSY, FOUR-LANE URBAN HIGHWAY. IT RESULTED IN THE CAR HAVING LIMITED FORWARD MOTION, POOR CONTROL, AND VASTLY DIMINISHED POWER, MAKING IT EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER IN TRAFFIC. I NARROWLY AVOIDED A COLLISION WITH OTHER CARS. I MANAGED TO DRIVE THE CAR BACK ABOUT 20 MILES TO MY RESIDENCE IN THE LIMP-HOME MODE--ONE FORWARD GEAR, THE ENGINE REVVING BETWEEN 3000 TO 5000 RPM'S WITH THE FORWARD SPEED NO MORE THAN 35 MPH. I PARKED THE CAR AND LEFT IT FOR A WEEK WHILE TRAVELING. WHEN I RETURNED IT WOULD NOT MOVE IN ANY GEAR. I HAD IT TOWED ON A FLAT-BED TRUCK TO AN AUDI DEALER. THE PROBLEM WAS DIAGNOSED AS AN INOPERABLE, UNREPAIRABLE TRANSMISSION BROUGHT ABOUT WHEN "A BOLT SEPARATED FROM THE TRANSMISSION HOUSING CAUSING A HOSE TO LEAK TRANSMISSION FLUID WHICH RESULTED IN BURNT PARTS AND GEARS. THE COST OF A NEW TRANSMISSION WAS $6,800--ON A CAR WITH ONLY 50,546 MILES! AFTER REPORTING THE INCIDENT TO AUDI CORPORATE, I WAS INFORMED THAT AUDI COULD NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS EVENT BECAUSE THERE WERE "NO OPEN CAMPAIGNS OR SERVICE ACTIONS" RELATIVE TO THIS MODEL. I WAS VERY DISSATISFIED WITH THIS RESPONSE SINCE I HAVE BEEN A LONG-TIME AUDI OWNER/DRIVER OF THE A8 AND OTHER MODELS. MY INTERNET RESEARCH INDICATES THAT THE TRANSMISSION OF THE A8-D2 MODELS (1997-99) HAS BEEN A VERY WEAK COMPONENT PART ON THESE CARS. PLEASE HELP. *TR

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2005-07-07

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2005-05-22
VIN: WAUCB28D3XA
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: TIMING BELT FAILURE AT 149,865 KM (90,000 MI.) TIMING BELT REPLACEMENT, RESURFACE CYLINDER HEAD, REPLACE GUIDES AND VALVES. ALSO REPLACED WATER PUMP AND THERMOSTAT. TOTAL COST $4,951.87 CDN DEALERSHIP (SOUTHGATE VOLKSWAGEN AUDI INC. IN EDMONTON ALBERTA CANADA) WAS NO HELP, AND WANTED TO REPLACE THE ENGINE AT A COST OF MORE THAN $10,000. REPAIRS DONE AT LOCAL REPAIR SHOP (AUTO IMPORTS EDMONTON ALBERTA CANADA) - THEY WERE EXCELLENT. WROTE TO AUDI TO TRY TO CLAIM AS A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT - 12 SIMILAR REPORTS ON NHTSA WEB SITE AT SIMILAR MILEAGE.

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2005-06-24

WHEELS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2005-05-18
VIN: WAUBA24B8XN
Components: WHEELS,EQUIPMENT
Summary: DT: WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 40 MPH ON NEWLY PURCHASED WHEELS AND TIRES, CONSUMER STRUCK A POTHOLE, AND NOTICED AFTERWARDS THE CAR WAS SHAKING AND DROVE HOME. AFTER EXAMINATION, 3 OF THE WHEELS WERE BENT ON A POT HOLE AT A SPEED OF 40 MPH. CONSUMER FELT AS THOUGH VEHICLE WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE IT VIBRATED AT A SPEED OF 30 MPH OR MORE. CONSUMER CONTACTED TIRE DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THERE WAS NO WARRANTY. CONSUMER THEN EXPLAINED TO DEALER IT WAS UNLIKELY THAT 3 WHEELS WOULD BEND ON A POT HOLE. BUT TIRE DEALER WOULD NOT GIVE A REFUND. DEALER NOTED THAT, THAT MANUFACTURER HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS WITH WHEELS BENDING. CONSUMER HAD TO HAVE WHEELS REPLACED. BORBET MANUFACTURER WHEELS, GERMAN. *AK *SB *NM

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2004-11-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
VIN: FILL IN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
Summary: VEHICLE'S REAR PASSENGER DOORS OPEN AUTOMATICALLY WHENEVER POWER WINDOWS ARE ROLLED DOWN. DOORS WILL NOT SHUT UNLESS OWNER PULLS OVER AND SHUTS DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. *NM

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2004-02-17

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-05-29
VIN: WAUBG34D0XN
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: 1999 AUDI A8 CONTINUES TO ERODE THE INSIDE CIRCUMFERENCE OF THE REAR TIRES, APPROX 1/32ND PER 20 DAYS, HAVE PLACED 4 TIRES ON IT AND THE DEALER HAS PLAYED WITH THE ALIGNMENT TO ATTEMPT TO CORRECT. THIS HAS NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *JB

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2003-12-31

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUBG34D2XN
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: THE FRONT BUMPER FELL OFF TWICE WITHOUT HITTING ANY OBJECTS. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *JB

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2003-10-10

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2001-11-05
VIN: WAUBG34D0XN
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE STOPS. AUDI ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR TWICE. THE VEHICLE REMAINED STOPPING WITHOUT WARNING. *AK

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2002-07-10

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-02-21
VIN: WAUBH34D1XN
Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AND WAS REPLACED, HOWEVER THE NEW TRANSMISSION DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY, CONSUMER STATES THAT THE TRANSMISSIONS ARE CLEARLY FLAWED, THE FAULTY TRANSMISSION ALSO CAUSED THE ABS AND BRAKE LIGHTS TO ILLUMINATE. *SLC. CONSUMER STATES A FRONT AND REAR WHEEL ALIGNMENT WAS PERFORMED.*JB

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2001-12-04

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-09-01
VIN: WAUED28D3XA
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: WHILE DRIVING BRAKES LOCKED UP, DAMAGING VEHICLE, CONSUMER SPOKE WITH DEALER AND THEY REFUSED TO HONOR RECALL LETTER.*AK AS CONSUMER TAPPED ON THE BRAKES, THEY LOCKED UP CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPIN OUT OF CONTROL, THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 3 OCASSIONS, WHEN CONSUMER ARRIVED TO THE DEALER HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE RECALL PART WAS GIVEN TO ANOTHER CUSTOMER.*SLC

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1999 Audi A8 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1999 Audi A8.

2020-01-31

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 TT Roadster, 2000 TT Coupe, 1999 Audi A8, 1998-2000 Audi A6, and 1999-2000 Audi A4 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 air bag inflator with an alternative inflator when the parts become available, free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed September 21, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69BT.

2008-08-14

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.

2000-12-06

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:ROD:RELAY:CONNECTING
Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TIE RODS OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY ARE PROTECTED ON EACH SIDE BY A SEAL TO PREVENT MOISTURE AND DUST PARTICLES FROM ENTERING THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SOME TIE ROD SEALS MAY NOT SEAL PROPERLY.
Consequence: IF MOISTURE AND/OR DUST PARTICLES ENTER THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM, THE SWIVEL BEARING COULD WEAR OVER TIME DIMINISHING THE STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TIE RODS.

1999-09-13

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:ROD:RELAY:CONNECTING
Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TIE RODS OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY ARE PROTECTED ON EACH SIDE BY A SEAL TO PREVENT MOISTURE AND DUST PARTICLES FROM ENTERING THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SOME TIE ROD SEALS MAY NOT SEAL PROPERLY.
Consequence: IF MOISTURE AND/OR DUST PARTICLES ENTER THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM, THE SWIVEL BEARING COULD WEAR OVER TIME DIMINISHING THE STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TIE RODS.

Negative 1999 Audi A8 car reviews

Mitchel Grimes 2024-07-19

These cars are really nice cars. However, this particular model, while great to drive and looks and handles very well, has depreciated greatly over the years and has a ton of mechanical problems that are out of warranty and can be expensive to fix. Please keep this in mind before making a purchase.
Jarred Brown 2024-06-25

Although I adore the styling and driving experience of this car, I must admit that it has been a major disappointment. Unfortunately, I have had to spend over $12K on repairs in the 19 months that I have owned it. The cost of repairs and depreciation has resulted in a monthly expense of nearly $2K, not including gas and insurance. The transmission failed at 92K miles and the replacement cost through Audi is $5500. It is worth noting that Audi only offers a 12 month/12K mile warranty, which is inadequate given the cost of the car and the lack of alternative replacements. Despite these challenges, I remain confident in my decision to purchase this car and will continue to seek out the best solutions for any issues that may arise.

Positive 1999 Audi A8 car reviews

Obie Mann 2024-09-14

This car is an absolute delight to drive! However, I have had some trouble with the pricing at the Audi shop. The suspension parts seem to be a major issue, especially if you change your own oil like I do. It seems that every carrying arm has electronic sensors. Unfortunately, nothing wears out without a whole subassembly needing to be replaced. The most frustrating part was when I had to replace a broken headlight lens, which cost a whopping $1100 due to the light assembly being located deep in the engine compartment. Despite these issues, I must say that this is the best car I've ever owned (second best was a 1994 Audi 5000 stick shift, just as pretty in the driveway!).
Madison Graham 2024-09-10

Your car has been a reliable companion, clocking in at 103,000 miles without any issues. It's a champ in the snow, even in deep snow, and the dual climate control is a well-designed feature. The heated seats work exceptionally well, heating up fast even in the coldest of temperatures, like the -25 degree weather we experienced this winter. This car handles like a dream, feeling light and nimble relative to its size, and can be driven at its handling limits with ease.
Brandon Jacobi 2024-09-01

Just keeps rolling along! It's amazing how reliable this car has been. With 160000 miles on the clock, it still manages to make 23 miles to a gallon with no repairs, just normal maintenance.
Emmett Shanahan 2024-08-29

I bought an A8 based on a recommendation from a BMW service advisor who suggested it over a similar 740. He was absolutely right! Not only was it thousands less expensive, but the performance is remarkable. The car is noticeably more nimble than the BMW, and the quattro system was superb during the fall monsoons in Houston. Advantage Audi in Houston treated me like royalty when I brought the car in for an oil change, which was a pleasant surprise since I bought the car in Ohio. If you haven't driven one, you should before you buy any other premium car.
Tony Larson 2024-07-22

You've had the car for three and a half years and installed the S8 suspension. The build quality and style are excellent and it still gets compliments. The mileage is also excellent for a 300 hp V8. It's very comfortable for long trips and the ride handling compromise is excellent after installing the factory S8/sport suspension. You've had a few minor issues covered under warranty, but your dealer (Hoehn) has been great.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1999 Audi A8 problems:

Known issues if I buy a D2 A8? - AudiWorld Forums

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a8-s8-d2-platform-discussion-8/known-issues-if-i-buy-d2-a8-2822295/

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 ...

1998 A8 reliability?

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/115574-1998-A8-reliability

Jan 22, 2007 ... The D2 A8 isnt as desired as other large sedans. That and the problems of the earlier models killed any chance for this car to become known for ...