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While a used luxury car seems daunting and could fall into “money pit” territory, some luxury vehicles are more reliable than others. Moreover, not every model year is created equal, as evidenced by many posh cars from Audi and other posh marques. For instance, both U.S. News and J.D. Power agree that the 2013 Audi A4 is a benchmark in reliability compared to many of its successors. 

How reliable is a used Audi A4?

Depending on the model year, a used Audi A4 could be a prudent choice among luxury cars. For instance, U.S. News applauds the then-refreshed 2013 A4 as a sensible used luxury car choice with high-reliability scores and “athletic handling and composure over bumps in the road.”

However, not every model year of A4 gets accolades for reliability. For instance, Car Complaints says the 2011 Audi A4 is not only more unreliable than the 2013 model, but it’s also the worst A4 model year for reliability. Specifically, the 2011 model exhibits frequent issues like excessive oil consumption and loss of power while underway. 

What year is the most reliable Audi A4?

The 2012 and 2013 Audi A4 are some of the most reliable options in the model’s tenure. According to U.S. Cars, the 2013 A4 snags a reliability score of 87 out of 100. Moreover, the 2013 model enjoyed a styling update and an MMI infotainment system update. 

A used gray 2013 Audi A4 shows off its small car proportions and sleek LED lights.
2013 Audi A4 | National Motor Museum, Heritage Images via Getty Images

In addition to U.S. Cars, J.D. Power gave the 2013 A4 the No. 2 spot in its compact premium car category. The A4 from that model year earned an 84 out of 100 by J.D. Power’s metrics. Better yet, evaluators gave the Audi model an 87 in quality and reliability, citing a low number of owner-reported defects and flaws. Of course, it should be noted that the 2013 A4 shares its No. 2 finish with the Infiniti G37, Acura TL, and its own sibling, the A5. 

What are the common problems with the 2013 Audi A4?

Although the 2013 Audi A4 is one of the more reliable options in the model’s recent history, it doesn’t go without its problems. For instance, owners report some engine problems, per Car Complaints. For example, six owners have complained of requiring a new engine at around 91,000 miles.  

A gray 2013 Audi A4 shows off its side profile.
A4 | National Motor Museum, Heritage Images via Getty Images

In addition to rare engine failures, a few owners have complained of excessive oil consumption, and some have cited stiff power steering at around 80,000 miles. As a result, the A4’s annual repair costs can be as much as $828, says RepairPal.   

How much is a 2013 Audi A4?

In addition to being one of the most reliable model years, the 2013 A4 is a reasonably-priced used luxury option. For instance, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) says an A4 Premium with average mileage has a fair value of $10,543.   

Is a 2013 Audi A4 a good car?

The 2013 Audi A4 is a sharp luxury sedan, both in styling and handling. Moreover, with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system as an option and reliability scores higher than other model years, the used A4 is undoubtedly a good car.

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