What's Wrong with the 2nd Generation (2001–2004) A4?

A4 owners have made 38 complaints about the 2001–2004 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it second to last in overall reliaibility, with significant engine and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other A4 Generations

Common 2001-2004 Audi A4 Problems

Some of the worst issues 2nd generation A4 owners have to deal with.

  1. Takata Recalls

    A large number of Audi vehicles have been recalled because they contain dangerous airbag inflators made by Takata. The shrapnel-hurling inflators have been recalled in over 37 million vehicles (and counting).

    Continue reading article "Takata Recalls" Test dummy getting hit by Takata airbag

  2. Turbocharged Oil Sludge

    From 1997-2005, Audi 1.8-liter turbocharged engines came with a tiny 3.7 quart oil capacity. That’s simply not a lot of oil to cool down this hot engine. In 2004, following numerous sludge complaints, Audi extended the warranty on some of…

    Continue reading article "Turbocharged Oil Sludge" Oil pan covered in a thick sludge

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

2nd Generation (2001–2004) A4 Key Numbers

  1. 4 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 38 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 38th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 39 eligible generations.

Recent 2nd Generation (2001–2004) A4 News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.