Car design and manufacturing have come a long way in the last few decades, but nothing is perfect. Even the most trusted and well-known vehicle makers will have faults that impact consumers. Additionally, some automakers consistently have the same problems—which can be frustrating.

If you’re an Audi driver or thinking about becoming one, it’s smart to consider the problems the brand faces.

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What are the most common Audi problems?

Audi is a luxury car brand that focuses on technological and design innovation and sustainability. They place a heavy emphasis on pushing tech boundaries and continuously innovating. Because of this, improvements are always being made, but there are bound to be some bugs. Here are some of the most common problems found in Audis:

Issues with electrical components

Oil leaks

Engine misfires

For a complete breakdown of the most common Audi problems in the models on the market in 2022, check out the table below:

Model	Starting price	J.D. Power reliability rating	Most common problems	Years to avoid
A4	$40,995	74/100	Decreased power and poor fuel economy, clogged plenum tray drain, excessive oil consumption	2008, 2009, 2011
S4	$52,995	N/A	Failed thermostat, turbo failure, engine oil leaks	2006, 2007, 2008
Q7	$58,695	65/100	Engine misfire, leaking sunroof	2007, 2008, 2009, 2015, 2017, 2018
A3	$35,895	81/100	Start-stop system malfunction, engine misfire, faulty airbags	2004, 2009, 2013, 2015, 2016

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Most common Audi A4 problems

Average annual repair cost: $730

CarComplaints.com complaints: 249

Audi A4

drivers have found that this model is subject to decreased power and poor fuel economy due to carbon build-up in the intake system.

There have also been reports of electrical issues, causing engines to misfire from damaged spark plugs or spark plug wires, faulty turn signals, and defective power windows. A4 drivers also notice a rough, sputtering drive from prematurely worn-out gears and suspension parts.

Most common Audi S4 problems

Average annual repair cost: $1,171

CarComplaints.com complaints: 44

In the

Audi S4

, the most commonly reported problems stem from oil issues. S4 engines may leak due to damaged valve cover gaskets or camshaft chain tensioner gaskets. Furthermore, if you try to kick it into turbo drive without warming up your engine oil first, you may find a loss in power or smoke coming out of your exhaust.

You also may experience an overheating engine if a faulty thermostat gets stuck in either the open or closed position, not allowing the cooling system to work properly.

Most common Audi Q7 problems

Average annual repair cost: $1,185

CarComplaints.com complaints: 53

Many

Audi Q7

drivers have experienced unpleasant and distracting shuddering or bucking while driving due to an engine misfire. Attend to this quickly as prolonged misfiring can lead to severe engine damage down the road(s).

The Q7 also has a sunroof, which sounds like a nice addition—unless it leaks when it's raining or while you’re going through a car wash. Besides getting you and the interior of your car all wet, the leaking sunroof water can make its way into your electrical systems and wreak havoc. It may even lead to electrocution or a vehicle fire.

Most common Audi A3 problems

Average annual repair cost: $741

CarComplaints.com complaints: 70

With commonly reported start-stop system malfunctions and engine misfires, the A3 doesn’t always live up to Audi’s signature smooth ride. The A3’s start-stop malfunction can lead to a loss of power steering and a delayed brake response, which could be deadly.

Other dangerous issues found in

Audi A3s

are faulty airbags and defective fuel tank suction pumps. Audi has stated that they will provide a fuel tank suction pump replacement for free, however, so contact your local Audi dealership for more information if you’re rolling with an A3.

Most common Audi TT problems

Average annual repair cost: $752

CarComplaints.com complaints: 45

Most problems with

Audi TTs

are found in the first and third generations. From faulty airbags to fuel tank leaks to electrical issues, TT models can give jerky and unsafe rides if the issues are not taken care of.

MORE:

Does Audi have a self-driving car

Are Audi cars reliable?

While Audi cars tend to lead in design and innovation, they are lacking a bit in reliability. On a list of 40 manufacturers from the ReliabilityIndex, Audi was ranked in 34th place.

Audi owners and drivers are often frustrated because issues with Audis seem to be inconsistent and not from just one problem source—it could be electrical issues, oil leaks, faulty parts, or something else entirely.

The least reliable Audi model: 2014 Audi A4

Most common problem: Clogged plenum tray drains

NHTSA complaints: 65

Although receiving an 83/100 on the JD Power Reliability scale, the A4 has racked up enough complaints and faulty parts that it has been deemed one of the least reliable Audi models.

The Audi A4 has gathered a lot of complaints about clogged drains, leading to water accumulation in the plenum tray, which sits under the car’s hood to drain away moisture. The accumulated water could leak into the interior of your vehicle, into your electrical components, or into your brake booster—all of which can cause problems with the vehicle’s functionality.

The most reliable Audi model: 2010 Audi A6

Most common problem: Carbon build-up

NHTSA complaints: 17

The most reliable Audi model is the 2010

Audi A6

. Pricing for this model starts at $46,000 and it has earned an 89/100 on the JD Power Reliability scale. Although there have been complaints about this Audi regarding a faulty torque converter and premature wear to suspension components, the A6 is generally regarded as the most reliable Audi.

MORE:

Car loan for Audi 2022

How to buy hassle-free car insurance

It seems like

Audi drivers

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