2002 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 2002 Audi A8 problems
Title: Common Problems with the Audi A8 2002: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction:
The Audi A8 2002 is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its share of problems. This article provides a detailed overview of the common issues reported by Audi A8 2002 owners, based on their complaints and experiences.
- Engine Issues:
The Audi A8 2002 is equipped with various engine options, including the 2.8-liter V6, 3.7-liter V8, 4.2-liter V8, and 2.5-liter TDI diesel engine. The 2.5-liter TDI engine is known for increased camshaft wear, particularly in the 150-horsepower version . The high-pressure fuel pump can also cause problems, especially after warming up . The 3.3-liter TDI V8 is a remarkable engine, but it is not without its issues. Minor repairs can be challenging due to its complex design and location . The 2.8-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8 engines are generally reliable, but they can experience issues with valve timing regulators and timing belts . - Transmission Problems:
The Audi A8 2002 uses the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which is generally reliable. However, the age and complexity of the vehicle can lead to issues with the transmission. The ZF transmission is known for its reliability, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity . The multitronic gearboxes, also known as "multi-trauma," can be a point of contention for some drivers, as they may not prefer their unique shifting mechanism . - Suspension and Steering Concerns:
The Audi A8 2002 features a sophisticated suspension system, which can sometimes lead to issues. The air suspension, in particular, may cause problems if the car does not stand leveled, indicating a potential leak in the suspension . The front-wheel drive versions of the A8 may also experience issues with city joints, which can wear out quickly with aggressive driving . - Electrical and Electronic Malfunctions:
While the Audi A8 2002 is generally reliable in terms of electronics, there are a few areas where issues may arise. The automatic headlight leveling sensor is known to fail occasionally, and the interior bulbs may experience problems due to a faulty ignition system or control unit . - Maintenance and Repair Costs:
The Audi A8 2002 is a luxury vehicle, and as such, maintenance and repair costs can be high. Particularly, the diesel engines are known for their propensity to leak from various gaskets, which can add to the overall cost of ownership .
Conclusion:
The Audi A8 2002 is a sophisticated luxury sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. While it is generally reliable, there are several common issues that owners may encounter. Understanding these problems can help potential buyers make informed decisions and prepare for the costs associated with owning a luxury vehicle.
Is buying a used Audi A8 a good idea?
Audi A8: The Audi A8 is one of the most dependable full-size luxury sedans on the used car market. It also impresses with its powerful engine, outstanding fuel economy, and upscale interior.
Is the Audi A8 a reliable car?
According to whatcar.com, the Audi A8 has a decent reputation for reliability. Some years are terrible, but most come out about average. According to audicomplaints.com, the Audi A8 ranks 7th out of 19 Audi models. It's far from the worst, but it's not even close to the best.
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 Audi A8 expensive to maintain?
Maintenance and repair costs for an Audi A8 will amount to $2,843 after 5 years.
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:
2002 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:
- Tires problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Visibility problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Audi A8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Audi A8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Audi A8.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-09
- VIN: WA1YD64B42N
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL NOT CLEAR OFF THE SNOW ON THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. DEALER INDICATED THAT IT WAS A MANUFACTURING DESIGN FLAW, AND THERE WAS NO SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM. *AK *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-11
- VIN: WA1YD64B12N
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: OUT OF CONTROL EXPERIENCE DUE TO UNWANTED ACCELERATION OF VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE GAS PEDAL WAS RELEASED, THE ENGINE REVVED PAST THE REDLINE, AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT SLOW DOWN WHEN THE BRAKES WERE ENGAGED AND WE ALMOST DID NOT MAKE THE TURN INTO OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. EVEN WHEN WE PUT THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL,THE ENGINE DID NOT STOP REVVING. WE CHECKED TO MAKE SURE THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS NOT ON AND TRIED THE ENGINE AGAIN, ONLY TO HAVE THE ENGINE REV THROUGH THE REDLINE WHEN ONLY THE BRAKE PEDAL (AND NOT THE GAS) WAS ENGAGED. WE TURNED THE CAR OFF AND PUSHED IT TO A SAFE LOCATION WHERE WE LEFT IT, AND CALLED THE POLICE (WHO WOULD NOT MAKE AN INCIDENT REPORT) AND LEFT A MESSAGE AT THE DEALERSHIP. *PH
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-23
- VIN: WA1YD64B72N
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I AM ADDING TO A PREVIOUS COMPLAINT [ODI 768857 - REF 704187] REPORTING 2 GOODYEAR SIDE WALL TIRE FAILURES. I HAVE NOW EXPERIENCED A 3RD SIDE WALL BUBBLE AND FAILURE. AGAIN THERE IS NO RIM DAMAGE AND PROPER TIRE PRESSURES HAVE BEEN MAINTAINED. THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN OPERATED OFF ROAD. I'M CAUGHT BETWEEN AUDI WHICH TAKES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE TIRES ON THEIR CARS AND GOODYEAR. I HAVE NEVER HAD TIRE FAILURES ON ANY OF THE OTHER 5 CARS WE OWN AND CONTINUE TO BE SURE THAT THIS MUST BE A COMMON PROBLEM CAUSED BY WEAK SIDE WALLS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WA1YD64B62N
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTO TRANSMISSION LAGS UP TO 1 SECOND IN RESPONDING WHEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. THIS HAS CAUSED A FEW CLOSE CALLS WHEN TRING TO MAKE TURNS INTO TRAFFIC. TRANS ALSO LAGS WHEN SHIFTING FROM REVERSE INTO DRIVE. ENGINE REVS BUT DRIVETRAIN DOES NOT CATCH. THEN CAR TAKES OFF WITH A JOLT. ALSO, EXPERIENCING A VIBRATION FROM CAR WHEN DRIVING EVEN AFTER CHECKING BRAKE ROTORS, WHEEL BALANCE AND ALIGNMENT. SEEMS TO COME AND GO. COULD BE TRANSMISSION RELATED. DT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-17
- VIN: WA1YD64B32N
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE PROBLEM I AM EXPERIENCING IS A LAG IN THROTTLE RESPONSE. WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS DEPRESSED THERE IS A MOMENT WHERE NOTHING HAPPENS THEN, A SECOND LATER THE CAR ACCELERATES VERY RAPIDLY. THIS ESPECIALLY NOTICEABLE WHEN DRIVING IN STOP-AND-GO TRAFFIC WHERE YOUR FOOT GOES FROM THE BRAKE TO THE THROTTLE FREQUENTLY. MY WIFE ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT DUE TO THIS DELAY; SHE WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN ACROSS THE ONCOMING LANE, WHEN AN OPENING APPEARED, SHE DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR AND FOR A MOMENT NOTHING HAPPENED, THEN THE CAR FINALLY GOES AND PUTS HER RIGHT INTO THE PATH OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. HAD THE ONCOMING CAR NOT BRAKED, SHE FEELS SHE WOULD HAVE BEEN HIT. IT IS FOR THIS REASON THAT I BELIEVE THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND NOT A CONVENIENCE ISSUE. I CONTACTED AUDI VIA E-MAIL TO LET THEM KNOW ABOUT THIS AND THEY INSTRUCTED ME TO BRING THE CAR TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIC AND ROAD TEST WHICH I DID. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE CAR IS "OPERATING WITHIN MANUFACTURER'S SPECS'' AND THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. WHEN I FOLLOWED UP WITH AUDI THEY CONCURRED WITH THE DEALER AND AGAIN STATED THAT THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN BE DONE. I LOGGED-ON TO AN AUDI ALLROAD FORUM(AUDIWORLD.COM) AND MANY OTHER ALLROAD OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS, AND GETTING THE SAME RESULTS WHEN THEY CONTACT AUDI, WHICH IS NO AKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE PROBLEM. SOME OWNERS REPORT TO HAVE HAD CLOSE CALLS. MANY OWNERS FEEL IT IS THE DRIVE BY WIRE ACCELERATOR WHILE OTHERS FEEL IT IS THE TRANSMISSION. EITHER WAY IT IS DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY AUDI . DT
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-01
- VIN: WA1Y064B72N
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WE HAVE HAD 2 SEPARATE SIDE WALL FAILURES ON THE FRONT TIRES. THE FIRST WAS IN LESS THAN 10,000 MILES AND THE SECOND WAS ON A NEW TIRE IN LESS THAN 5,000 MILES ON A NEW REPLACEMENT. NEITHER FAILURE SHOWED ANY EVIDENCE OF RIM DAMAGE OR OTHER EXTERNAL EVENT. WE ARE CAUGHT BETWEEN AUDI AND GOODYEAR EACH OF WHICH WANT US TO CALL THE OTHER PARTY. THIS APPEARS TO BE A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM RELATED TO THE AUDI TT TIRE RECALL. DT
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-16
- VIN: WA1YD64B22N
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE AND CAR HAVE BEEN MAINTAINED TO MANUFACTURER SPECS, TIRES HAVE AUTOMATIC TIRE PRESSURE MONITORS. AT ABOUT 11000 MI I NOTICED SOME FEATHERING OF ALL 4 TIRES. I TOOK IT IN AT ABOUT 11700 AND DEALER AGREED ALL 4 TIRES WERE WEARING ABNORMALLY. THEIR FACTORY REP BLAMES GOODYEAR, DELAER STATED 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT WAS OFF. THEY HAVE DONE NOTHING TO DATE ABOUT THE TIRES PREMATURELY WEARING. AT ABOUT 12600 MI THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR INDICATED A SUDDEN DECREASE IN PRESSURE FOR THE RR TIRE. I WAS GOING ABOUT 15 MPH AND WAS NEAR A TIRE SHOP. WHEN I ARRIVED AT THE SHOP, THE TIRE WAS NEARLY FLAT. THEY REPAIRED THE TIRE, BUT INFORMED ME THAT THREE OF THE FOUR TIRES WOULD NOT PASS SAFETY INSPECTION. THE RIGHT FRONT AND RIGHT REAR HAVE NOT TREAD LEFT AND THE THE LR IS NEARLY GONE. THE LF WOULD PASS BUT IS BADLY FEATHERED FOR ONLY 12600 MILES. THE CAUSE OF THE FLAT TIRE WAS A NAIL I HAD PICKED UP IN THE NEARLY BALD RR TIRE. THE SHOP SAID IF IT HAD HAPPENED AT FREEWAY SPEEDS IT WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY DANGEROUS. THEY STATED A NORMALLY TREADED TIRE WOULD NOT HAVE PICKED UP THE NAIL, BUT BECAUSE OF EXCESSIVE WEAR, THE NAIL IMMEDIATLELY PUNCTURED THE TIRE. THE FACTORY REP TOLD ME THAT AUDI HAD BEEN EXPERIENCING SOME PROBLEMS WITH THE GOODYEAR TIRE DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR THE ALLROAD MODEL AND THEY HAD NOT SEE MUCH PROBLEM WITH THE PIRELLI TIRES FOR THE SAME MODEL. I THINK SOMEONE NEEDS TO LOOK INTO THE MANUFACTURE AND SAFETY LEVEL OF THE GOODYEAR WRANGLER MADE ESPECIALLY FOR THE AUDI ALLROAD. PEOPLE WHO BUY THESE CARS COUNT ON THEM BEING SAFE AND ABLE TO PERFORM. TIRES SHOULD CERTAINLY LAST MORE THAN 10000 MILES AND ALL FOUR SHOULD WEAR EVENLY.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: ALL XENON HEADLAMPS SHOULD BE BANNED. THEY BLIND ONCOMING DRIVERS !!!
2002 Audi A8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2002 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.
Negative 2002 Audi A8 car reviews
Positive 2002 Audi A8 car reviews
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The car I own is the best! Although it may not be as quiet or functionally/logically laid-out as my wife's Lexus, it's still fun to drive and has excellent fuel economy. Plus, it's rare to see another one on the road!
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This is a great vehicle for a full size sedan. It has plenty of power and drives like a sports car.
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Over the past three years, my A8L has spent almost as much time in the shop as it has in the garage. Thankfully, it was Certified, so aside from the $50 deductible and inconvenience, the repairs have been relatively painless. Here is a list of the issues that have been addressed: Thermostat (replaced along with timing belt @ 50K miles), vacuum hoses/connectors, Torque converter/Transmission (required replacement), peeling console material, etc. etc. etc....
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I took this car for a test drive and I just had to have it. The 310 HP V8 is absolutely awesome - it's powerful, smooth, and very quiet. I can cruise at 90-100 mph and I can barely hear the engine running.
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The A8 is such a sweet car to own! It's the only luxury car with all-wheel-drive, which is perfect for getting to and from Lake Tahoe in the winter snow season. Even with large mud and snow tires, it handles like a dream. I usually drive in automatic mode, but the Tiptronic shifting is so much fun when I'm feeling playful. The gas mileage has been very acceptable, in the 20+ MPG range. It's been extremely dependable and Audi covers 100% of all regular maintenance, including replacement of wiper blades. If you want lots of room in the rear, the L version is the best choice. All in all, the A8 is a fantastic car for the money! If you want even more than 310 HP, go with the S8, but the A8 is plenty fast for me.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 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 ...
1998 A8 reliability?
Jan 22, 2007 ... I was planning on buying the car and only keeping it for a year or two. What do you guys think? for sale or trade- 2002 Audi S4 Danamg493@yahoo.
2005 Audi A8 L Reliability : r/Audi
Jul 4, 2022 ... For myself, I currently have a 2002 golf TDI with 150k miles. As all mkiv vw's the interior is going to shit. Mechanically the car is a ...
Maintance and Common Problems - AudiForums.com
Sep 5, 2008 ... 3. Unfortunately both the 3.7 and 4.2L D2 A8 have transmission problems. Most commonly with the reverse gear which will prevent you from backing ...
D2 A8/S8 (1997 - 2003) - quattroworld.com Forums
I just don't wanna drop a bunch of $ into a problem child. I just keep hearing blanket statements that Audi's are terrible for reliability no ...
Other years of Audi A8
Are you having problems with your 2002 Audi A8?
Ray Murazik 2024-10-18
Your vehicle has been a constant source of satisfaction from both a design and function point of view. The Quattro is simply amazing, especially when you live on top of a mountain in NE. Your car gets many looks and is both classy and understated, yet luxurious, especially with the rear and side shades up. The formula shifting and 310 HP make it a powerful and luxurious vehicle. It's a shame that Audi can't engineer a car that's as reliable as it is enjoyable.
Kaley Kunze 2024-04-05
The car has had multiple issues, including rattling and electronic failures. Despite attempts to fix the problems, they persist. Audi has not provided any assistance in resolving these issues, even after speaking with high-level customer service personnel. Overall, I would not recommend purchasing this car.