Skip to main content

A used Audi sedan is a tempting luxury car prospect for fans who don’t want to pay new car prices. However, not every model year is created equal, and choosing the right one could be the difference between a pleasant ownership experience and a series of headaches. So, when it comes to the 2017 Audi A4, is it worth it, or does it warrant a rethink? 

What problems does the 2017 Audi A4 have?

The 2017 Audi A4 has around 122 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Furthermore, its most common problems are electrical and cooling system issues. For instance, there are 10 NHTSA complaints about the model’s electrical system. 

A silver 2017 Audi A4 luxury car corners on a smooth road.
2017 Audi A4 | Audi

Moreover, Carcomplaints.com reports that some owners have complained about blank Multi Media Interface (MMI) screens at as little as 8,050 miles. The 2017 A4 could also develop a thermostat housing issue or water pump leak. However, the typical repair is $890, which is much cheaper than replacing more significant components like an engine or transmission.    

In addition to the Audi sedan’s limited list of issues, the 2017 model year has a history of six recalls, including a possibly defective passenger airbag. Recalls are free to repair, and owners should check their vehicle’s recall status on the NHTSA recall lookup portal. Still, considering that Audi sold around 31,188 of the model in 2017, the 122 NHTSA complaints are a tiny percentage of US models.  

How many miles will a 2017 Audi A4 last?

A 2017 Audi A4 should last between 150,000 and 250,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. 

However, some of the 2017 model’s problems occur well before a six-digit odometer reading. For instance, an NHTSA complaint stated that the A4’s potential for a leaking water pump could happen at as little as 28,133 miles.  

How much is a 2017 Audi A4?

Fans and potential owners can find a 2017 A4 Ultra Premium Plus for around $19,987 with average mileage. That’s significantly less than the model’s original starting point of about $35,850. 

What year is the most reliable Audi A4?

For fans who want the most reliable A4 they can get, the late B5-generation Audi models are often touted for their reliability. Specifically, the 1.9L diesel options from around the 2001 timeframe have the potential to last as much as 500,000 miles, per Vehicle History

On the other hand, owner complaints suggest that the 2011 model year could be one of the most unreliable in the A4’s tenure.  

A silver 2017 Audi A4 model shows off its luxury car lines.
2017 Audi A4 | Audi

Is the 2017 Audi A4 a good car?

The 2017 Audi A4 is a good car; it balances used luxury car affordability with Audi’s sleek, modern aesthetic and enthusiastic performance. Still, potential owners might be better off with a 2018 or 2016 model year, as they have fewer owner complaints. 

Despite owner complaints and recalls, the Audi model is a safe car. According to the NHTSA, it earned a five-star safety rating in crashworthiness testing. However, it didn’t snag a perfect score in every category; it earned four stars in its frontal crash testing. 

What do you think of the Audi luxury car? Tell us in the comments below!

Related

The 2020 Audi Q3 Just Barely Edges Out the Jaguar E-Pace