Contemplating a used luxury car option like an Audi or BMW is admittedly more tempting than a dull, budget ride. However, preowned luxury cars are often synonymous with “money pit” status and might cost you a lot of money in the long run. Still, if you steer clear of one of these used Audi A4 models, like the 2017 and 2013 model years, you could enjoy your used car experience. Check out a handful of A4s to avoid based on complaints from owners. 

Are used Audi A4s reliable?

The Audi A4 is a reliable used car option, but some of its issues could be expensive to remedy. For instance, RepairPal says late model A4s an average annual repair cost of $739. Moreover, these five model years have the most significant number of owner complaints: 

• 2017 
• 2013
• 2011
• 2009
• 2008

The 2011 Audi A4 has the most significant issues, per CarComplaints.com. The 2009 model has a more substantial number of complaints, but the average repair costs for the 2011’s engine issues make it more of a potential headache. The 2017 A4 is the most recent model year with noteworthy complaints from owners. 

Still, these complaints are relatively infrequent, suggesting that issues aren’t commonplace. In fact, the 2009 model year has the greatest number of reports, totaling just 35 on CarComplaints.com and 179 to the NHTSA. Still, the complaints are nearly negligible, considering the marque sold around 37,000 A4s in 2009, per GoodCarBadCar. 

What problems does the 2017 Audi A4 have?

The 2017 A4 has very few complaints, but most owner reports pertain to electrical gremlins. Specifically, the display screen might fail to display information, and the gateway module could be faulty at low mileage.  

How many miles does a 2013 Audi A4 last?

A 2013 Audi A4 could last between 150,000 and 250,000 miles or more with proper care and maintenance. However, the 2013 model year does exhibit 148 NHTSA complaints and some owner reports regarding engine and steering problems. 

In some cases, the Audi model could require a new engine, with an average cost of around $8,890. However, this issue is rare; only six owners reported to CarCompliants.com about installing a new engine.  

What are common problems with the 2011 Audi A4?

The most common issue with the 2011 Audi A4 is excessive oil consumption, per owner reports. Twenty drivers documented the fault, and in four cases, the 2011 model required a $6,000 engine replacement at as little as 65,850 miles. 

Is a 2009 Audi A4 a good car?

All things considered, the 2009 Audi A4 is a good used car. However, like the 2011 model from the same B8 generation, the 2009 model has a few problems. For instance, some drivers report excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues at 66,900 and 129,100 miles, respectively.  

Is the 2008 Audi A4 a reliable car?

Like the more recent B8-generation models, the 2008 A4 has a propensity to burn oil, according to some owners. However, even with 20 driver reports and 217 NHTSA complaints, the 2008 model year is a generally reliable used car option. 

What are your thoughts on a used A4? Tell us in the comments below!