1996 Audi A4 problems
Owners have filed 133 complaints about the 1996 Audi A4 with NHTSA. Electrical system accounts for 24.1% of them — narrowly the most common, ahead of suspension at 17.3%.
Complaints133
Crashes4
Fires1
Injuries1
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Electrical system 24.1% · 32
Suspension 17.3% · 23
Service brakes, hydraulic 9.8% · 13
Steering 8.3% · 11
Equipment 6.8% · 9
Exterior lighting 5.3% · 7
Air bags 4.5% · 6
Power train 4.5% · 6
Severity
Of those complaints, 4 describe a crash, 1 describe a fire and 1 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 15 model years of the Audi A4 in this data, 1996 draws comparatively few complaints; 2006 is the outlier year.
Filings have fallen off, 7 in the last three years against 18 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 68,000 miles.
In owners' own words
00 V 317 000/ignition switch: the ignition switch will not return to the running position after starting the vehicle. The consumer would have to manually turn the switch back after starting the vehicle. The consumer noticed the recall on the nhtsa website and notified her dealer. The dealer informed the consumer that her vehicle identification number was not covered under the recall. Electrical system · reported at 64,000 miles
Ignition switch was still on when consumer started vehicle. Also, starter didn't return back when engaged from the switch, and air conditioner was blowing slowy and there was a smell coming fron the air conditioner. Consumer took vehicle to the dealership. Mechanic told conssumer that he needed an evaporator , and it was leaking coolant. Electrical system
Ignition switch did not return from starter engaged position, starter stayed engaged which lead to its failure after problem occured several times. Also, headlights, turn signals and a/c system did not work. Apparently other models of audis were subject to a safety recall for the same problem. Why not the A4? Repair cost: $800.00. Electrical system
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…