2004 Audi A4 Consumer Discussions

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Acura vs. The Germans [fedlawman] and Billyperks [sweendogy] [fedlawman] [sweendogy] [fedlawman] [sweendogy] [fedlawman] [sweendogy]

  Written by: fedlawman on Oct 1, 2011 11:32:58 PM

  I've never driven a Jetta GLI so I can't comment on it. I think it's (a lot) smaller than the TSX and doesn't have as many amenities and has a less refined driveline though - not a near-luxury segment car. I do really like last years cockpit lighting and layout though - very upscale for an economy car. The TSX weighs less than any version of the A4 Audi makes. It's ... Read More

• Re: Acura vs. The Germans [fedlawman] and Billyperks [sweendogy] [fedlawman] [sweendogy] [fedlawman]

  Written by: sweendogy on Oct 1, 2011 5:56:51 PM

  I love the illustrations but they prove little but you did point out that acura/honda did have a good past stable of sports cars but as you know the nsx hasnt been produced since 2005 the s2000 was 09... now given the fact that those 2 cars were rwd and were light weight and were great handlers - something the TL and TSX are not. - Is the A4 a sports ... Read More

Audi A4 Convertible

• Re: 2005 Audi A4 Cab [summer29]

  Written by: scotth7 on Jun 20, 2011 4:57:16 AM

  I have not had the issue with the glass separating from the canvas. I have had a 2004 and have had the followin gissues on my converible: New transmission at 30,000 miles ignition coils replaced radio antenna went out after 4 hours (short in the wire, $600 to fix, I let it go) hinges on the glove box broke (cheap plastic) (want $300 to replace) hinges on the center compartment broke ... Read More

Audi A4 Sludge Problems

• Sludge problem and Engine Damage after Audi Dealer Changes Oil

  Written by: audiowner1 on Feb 13, 2011 10:09:00 AM

  Within 10 minutes of pulling out of the Audi dealer after it had changed the oil on my 2004 A4 Cabriolet, 3.0 engine, with 109,000 miles, the oil light went on. Called dealer, who thought it might not have put in enough oil. Completed drive home and then next day drove to another Audi dealer that was open, and oil light went on again about 10 minutes into drive. 2nd Audi ... Read More

Audi A4 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: pricing on a 2009 A4 3.2 Premium Plus [gregg_vw]

  Written by: rwolff on Feb 7, 2011 9:15:51 AM

  Thanks for the info and opinion. I'm a bit concerned about the oil sludge problems that the turbos have had in the past. I had a 2004 A4 turbo and at 30K had to have the engine replaced due to oil sludge, still under warranty thankfully. Has Audi corrected the problem? If so, would consider the 2.0T. I did test drive one and it was very nice, quieter than the earlier ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Coolant Leak in Cylinder

  Written by: simonmj on Oct 5, 2010 3:50:00 PM

  My 2004 Audi A4 3.0 convertible's check engine light came on and I just had the ignition coil recall performed. My check engine light continues to come on...the computer kept showing misfires on Cylinders 3 & 4. There was about a 5 second rough start when the engine was started cold. After a week in the shop, the dealership says it is a coolant leak in cylinder 3 only...they are no ... Read More

Audi A4 Sludge Problems

• 2004 AUDI A4 SLUDGE ISSUE GONE GOOD

  Written by: fordman214 on Jul 29, 2010 7:42:53 AM

  I KNOW THERE ARE TONS OF PEOPLE HAVING THIS HUGE PROBLEM AND HAVING ALOT OF COMPLAINTS, SO I FIGURED I'D SHARE A GOOD ONE. BOUGHT AN A4 FROM A SISTER IN LAW THAT HAD 134K MILES FOR $3500. PRETY GOOD RIGHT? MADE IT 170 MILES, THE OIL PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR WENT UP IN A BALL OF SMOKE AND SOUNDED AS IF THE VALVES WERE STICKING OUT THE ... Read More

Audi A4 Convertible

• Broken Spring in Convertible Top

  Written by: vtsc on Jul 23, 2010 6:29:21 PM

  The Audi dealership cannot seem to resolve an issue with the convertible top on my 2004 A4 3.0 Cab. (46Kmiles - 7 years old). The spring that holds the inner roof top to the upper canvas, (visible at just behind mid-point while dropping the roof), is broken. It looks as though the j hook spring is connected to the lining on one end, but broken in two below the actual spring. ... Read More

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• Pretty to look at- Troublesome to own!

  Written by: gapch1 on Apr 20, 2010 1:03:16 PM

  I purchased my 2004 A4 convertible in Oct. 2009. I have had it into the shop now three times, three separate issues. First one had to do with a intake fan or valve.. a week and a half to figure that problem out. Several days after getting it back from the shop, the car starts misfiring, chugging and check engine light is flashing. Now, we get to tow it. An ignition ... Read More

Audi A4 Convertible

• Re: 2005 Audi A4 Cab [stacyjm]

  Written by: hatnbak on Apr 12, 2010 12:55:23 PM

  I can identify with you. My 2004 A4 Cabrio 3.0 went out of warranty about 2 years ago, and I've had A LOT of repairs. I've finally learned to avoid my Audi dealer, as their labor rates & recommended time for different fixes makes the repairs ridiculously expensive. I can't even remember the entire list, but in addition to $2000 for convertible top positioning sensors & control module (which probably wouldn't ... Read More

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• Re: Never, ever buy any Audi [michael105]

  Written by: 2004a4 on Apr 1, 2010 12:58:58 PM

  I've owned 2 Audi's and not had any major issues with them. My first car was an '88 90. I bought it with around 80k miles on it, no clue of the history before then, but when I traded it in it had over 180k miles. Beyond regular maintenance I only had to replace the cat. and a/c compressor. My current car is a 2004 A4 1.8t. It's not been perfect, ... Read More

Audi A4 Convertible

• Re: 2004 A4 Cab should I purchase it? [icat]

  Written by: andre154 on Dec 4, 2009 2:07:02 PM

  (Same answer as Post #226) Try turning ignition key on and off three times (without starting engine), should reset the light and roof mechanism. Had same issue and this is what Audi shop told me to do - it worked. :)

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: looking for help with maintenance [ntheyardagain]

  Written by: mercops on Oct 6, 2009 9:25:22 AM

  What is the year make and model. Audi was forced in 2004, to extend warranties on engines that failed due to "sludge issues" from 5 years/ 50,000 miles to 8 years/unlimited miles. Please see below August 31, 2004 Audi to Extend Warranty on Certain Models Due to Oil Sludge Problems Source: Associated Press Volkswagen of America Inc. has extended its warranty coverage of certain models for problems caused by oil sludge, ... Read More

Audi A4 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Certified pre-owned 2007 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro [andyfromjersey]

  Written by: sandiegoaudi on Sep 28, 2009 2:49:58 PM

  I bought my 2004 Audi a4 1.8T silver/black for $17300. I don't know how I got that price.. I was in the Volkswagen/Audi dealership looking for a 2007 passat and the Audi was sitting right in front on sale for 18500. I offered 16500 cash and we met at 17300. I thought it was an amazing deal for a 3 year old car with only 40k miles... plus I got the ... Read More

• Re: Certified pre-owned 2007 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro [andyfromjersey]

  Written by: sandiegoaudi on Sep 28, 2009 12:08:11 PM

  The certified warranty is worth it for sure ... I bought a certified 2004 audi a4 in April 2007 and I have used that warranty more than I can imagine, my car has been towed twice (both times covered by warranty/ problems with the coils). My airbag sensor malfunctioned twice... covered I had a coolant leak that required 3 different trips to the dealer to get it fixed... covered. I bought ... Read More

Audi A4 Ignition Coil Problems

• Re: Problems with Audi A4 Ignition Coils [damourer]

  Written by: audia42004 on Sep 19, 2009 9:23:18 AM

  Hello Folks, The Break down: My Audi A4 1.8T 2004 started shaking and slowed down my way back from work. I pulled over and called Audi Dealership they told me to tow the car to service center right away and not to try to drive it further. Diagnostic: As expected one of the 4 ignition coils was misfiring (I could also smell gasoline from my car's exhaust). I had extended warranty ... Read More

Audi A4 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Is this a good deal on a used 04 Audi A4 3.0 quattro? what's 2 many miles?

  Written by: newtoused on Aug 11, 2009 5:56:33 AM

  Hi! I'm new to this forum and buying used cars. Thinking of buying a 2004 Audi A4 3.0 quattro w/ 76,300 miles for $11,900 from a private seller. It has a complete sport package and only 1 owner who has all the maintenance on paper. It's pretty much immaculate and rides well. Is that too many miles to even considering the purchase or is it a good deal? Should Itry to ... Read More

• Re: The summer of audi event [sondu51]

  Written by: bear_4_life on Jun 4, 2009 10:20:19 AM

  Just bought our new Audi end of May. In all honesty, you need to walk into the dealerships and tell them of what you expect or already have in hand. Initially, I had no idea of the different incentives until I gathered bits of info here and there. Live in California and if you look at the San Jose Audi website, you'll see what kinds of incentives are / were available ... Read More

Ultimate AWD Sports Sedans

• Re: 2004 Audi A4 vs. the other AWD's ..... [penguinhead]

  Written by: waygrabow on Jun 2, 2009 7:45:21 PM

  We recently went looking to replace our 03 A4 1.8T quattro. All the cars we looked at would be good choices, depending on your priorities. MB C300 4matic- really liked the looks, smallish trunk, definitely a contender. BMW 328xi- excellent handling, not sure we like the runflat tires, small trunk. G35x- handles like a big car, big HP means less mpg, many nice features. Audi A4: we loved our 03 but ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Audi A4 vs. the other AWD's ..... [penguinhead]

  Written by: ateixeira on Jun 1, 2009 1:12:15 PM

  I think you have a nice list of cars there, actually. I've driven all of them at one point or another, last year I went to an Audi event at Summit Point and sampled the Bimmer, Benz, Audi, and a Lexus IS250 AWD. The Benz was a bit soft, this being a 2008 or so model. For their AWD cars the suspension tuning is softer, perhaps they expect snowy climates call ... Read More

• 2004 Audi A4 vs. the other AWD's .....

  Written by: penguinhead on May 31, 2009 6:47:20 PM

  Hello all ! New here...figured it would be an intelligent place... Wife looking to buy a used (2004) AWD Sedan. Each has about 68,000 miles on it. Prices are apparent differences, will deal with that later. Looking at: AUDI A4 1.8 Quattro Infinity G35x BMW 325xi Mercedes c-240 Not looking for a 'race car'. Standard wife car; comfortable; good in snow. She likes these styles, so the Subarus are not a ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2004 Audi a4 problem [mercops]

  Written by: eddie650 on May 4, 2009 12:32:40 PM

  I have the 2005+ Audi A4 and I noted recently that new literature on my model says to replace the timing belt at 75,000 miles.

• Re: 2004 Audi a4 problem [jabriangirls]

  Written by: mercops on May 4, 2009 7:45:45 AM

  FYI; If your timing belt failed it may be the result of a faulty part as the service guide for the 1.8T requires change out at 100,000 miles. There has been an issue with these failing before recommended replacement time and the NHTSA has a data base and log on complaits and corrective actions against AudiUSA. Check the NHTSA website for your specific year and model. I might give you some ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Audi a4 problem [jabriangirls]

  Written by: rowlandj on Apr 30, 2009 10:33:17 AM

  If you have no record of a timing belt change it's very likely that it did fail. I assume you have the 1.8T engine as well? If so, you could have severe engine issues. The problem could be anywhere from bent valves to holes in the pistons as that engine is an 'interference engine'. A break to the timing belt at speed causes significant damage in most cases. I hope it's ... Read More

• 2004 Audi a4 problem

  Written by: jabriangirls on Apr 30, 2009 7:09:45 AM

  Yesterday I was driving home and my acceleration just died on my on the highway. I tried to start it back up up and i noticed the engine wouldn't turn over. I was told that it could be a timing belt problem or a trasmission problem. I am praying that it is not the latter. i need any help with this issue. my car only has 87k in mileage. any suggestions ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Audi A4 3.0 - Torque Converter [juiyuan]

  Written by: TOMH3638 on Feb 14, 2009 4:32:42 PM

  Audi's are notorious for electrical glitches. I had the same diagnosis over a year ago on a 2004 A4 as the check engin light came on just prior to a state inspection. The dealer re-set the indicator, stayed off a few days, then back on. Car has 98K on it. This year , same dealer, wanted to install a torque converter, Once ir reminded him of the procedure they did last ... Read More

• Re: Looking to buy 2006 Audi A4 [eddie650]

  Written by: rowlandj on Jan 7, 2009 4:27:23 AM

  Oils should meet a VW spec in the 504 or something like that range. It has changed over the years but if you look at a label on Mobil 1 0W-40 you'll see it. That oil is the most generally available that does meet the spec and I have been using it for years in my 2004 A4 1.8T. WalMart usually has it but AutoZone, Pep Boys etc... also typically stock ... Read More

Audi A4 Ignition Coil Problems

• Re: Problems with Audi A4 Ignition Coils [wuzup]

  Written by: HassanA4 on Feb 3, 2009 6:24:18 AM

  Hello,I have an 2004 A4 1.8, with 83000 miles. My check engine light came on an I think it is an engine coil that needs to be replaced. I had one replaced about 6 months ago and i was wondering if there has been a recall on these items.

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Audi A4 2004 [ricky2032]

  Written by: Mr_Shiftright on Dec 24, 2008 9:04:18 AM

  Your car's engine management system should compensate for the lower octane. All you'd notice was a drop in performance.

• Audi A4 2004

  Written by: ricky2032 on Dec 15, 2008 9:52:44 PM

  I put regular gas on it for 9months. Which i didn't think it would do harm but what do you think?

• 2004 A4 - Chronic Transmission Problems

  Written by: bgs3 on Oct 1, 2008 4:20:22 PM

  I am new to this website and am seeking information on transmission problems on A4s. How do I go about getting info on here pertinent to this? We need our 3rd transmission in 4 1/2 years, it has never worked smoothly (and we even had it repaired the week after we purchased the car brand new). Of course, Audi America and our dealer do not wish to pay for this now ... Read More

• CEL on Audi A4 3.0 Quattro

  Written by: kmi1 on Jan 15, 2009 8:23:43 PM

  I am having some problems with my 2004 Audi A4 3.0 Quattro and was wondering if someone could give me some feedback. I was out of town for a week and upon my return, found my car would not start. I did have someone at home drive it a couple of times while I was gone but they said they had no troubles. I tried to restart my car the next ... Read More

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• Synthetic

  Written by: sarnman on Nov 25, 2008 1:04:49 PM

  Does anyone know when Audi started using synthetic oil in their engines from the start? I just bought a 2004 A4 1.8t (34k miles) and am hoping to avoid the dreaded sludge problem. The salesmen told me it has always had synthetic but I'm not sure. Thanks.

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• Re: A4 quattro lease ready to expire [Car_man]

  Written by: woody50 on Nov 20, 2008 6:55:41 PM

  Wow, it's been nearly 2 years and 30,000 miles since I leased this A4. I have had a blast driving it, but I'm ready to turn it in. No mechanical problems. My teenage boys are 6 feet tall (much taller than I am) so fitting in the back seats is too tight. The Audi dealer in Norwell Mass. has been great to deal with. I looked at a 2004 AllRoad with ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Audi A4 2004 [pug3]

  Written by: eddie650 on Jul 7, 2008 6:25:46 PM

  No way to know for sure without taking your car in to be checked out. I'm aware that if the oxygen sensor goes bad for some reason, the check engine light comes on. At work this happens on the Malibu's in our fleet when the rodents chew on a wire when the car is parked in the lot overnight in the same space for a few days. For some reason, they ... Read More

• Audi A4 2004

  Written by: pug3 on Jul 7, 2008 7:57:52 AM

  Check Engine light stays on. What could be the problem?

• Re: Audi A4 Bose speaker

  Written by: robin25 on Jun 30, 2008 5:49:16 PM

  My son's 2004 Audi A4 has Bose speakers and the front driver's side speaker seems to have blown. Can anyone tell me how I can go about getting it replaced other than to take it to the Audi dealer?

Buying a Used A4

• Re: 2003 Audi A4 convertible [pats1]

  Written by: ptine on Mar 16, 2008 12:47:32 PM

  Thanks very much for your reply. I'm taking delivery in a few days on a 2004 3.0 convertible with 27,000 miles for 24K. Car is in fine shape. Took a test drive and was very pleased with the ride. Thanks again for your input and advice!

Audi A4 Convertible

• 2004 A4 Cab should I purchase it?

  Written by: ravinpat on Jan 24, 2008 8:34:04 AM

  Hi I am comming off my lease and I have been toying with the idea of purchasing the veichle. Audi has a great interest rate of 3.9 percent. I only have 42K miles on it. I was wondering if anyone had come up with this same or similar senario and if Audi were known to break down after a certain time. Should I look at just turning it in to save ... Read More

Ultimate AWD Sports Sedans

• Post moved

  Written by: pat on Jan 16, 2008 2:55:49 AM

  Here's the link: turbofun, "Audi A4 2004 and earlier" #6016, 15 Jan 2008 11:37 pm.

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• Audi lease termination - what a fiasco

  Written by: turbofun on Jan 15, 2008 11:37:30 PM

  I want to share my Audi A4 lease termination experience so others can learn from my mistake. Having had a positive experience with an A6 lease via Seattle’s University Audi, I decided to lease my second Audi in 2004, this time, an A4. One month before the end of the lease, I went through the lease termination inspection. Got dinged for $1300 items: a door ding for $125, two scratched wheels ... Read More

Audi A4 Avant vs. BMW 3-Series Wagon vs. Mercedes C-Class Wagon

• Re: A$ vs 328xi [georgek2]

  Written by: bryan3536 on Dec 28, 2007 8:40:17 PM

  It's been a brutal week in car-search land. We've been visiting relatives in Florida all week (I live in NY) and thought this would be a perfect week to find a car and, if we bought one, drive it home. Didn't go so good. The 2005 BMW 3-Series Wagon that I thought was the answer to my problems turned out to be a non-starter - I couldn't possibly put my 95+ ... Read More

• Re: A$ vs 328xi [badnews]

  Written by: bryan3536 on Dec 18, 2007 6:47:44 AM

  I'm glad to see there are others out there trying to make this decision. I am in need of a car with a split personality: 1) daily commuter car (i.e., decent MPG) 2) that will double as dog/kiddy transport on weekends (wagon/SUV storage), and 3) that will also be our "night on the town/adult" car, the car we'll use to go to weddings or use when we go to dinner with ... Read More

Audi A4 Reliability

• a4 1.8T quattro

  Written by: quattroporte12 on Dec 12, 2007 4:18:01 PM

  I am seriousley interested in a used, 2004 audi a4 1.8T Quattro with the ultra sport package, and i was interested in peoples opinions about the reliability. this is really my only concern, because i heard from a friend that the 1.8T is a great engine IFF you PERFECTLY maintain it, and if you miss one oil change the engine can become very unreliable and expensive to replace. also, i think ... Read More

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• 2004 A4 1.8t Automatic--Warranty Coverage up soon ????

  Written by: bpopman on Dec 10, 2006 6:44:09 PM

  Up here in Canada and my car is about to go in for its 70000km service..I am totally covered on warranty bumper to bumper until 80000km. Just wondering what I should tell the dealer I think may be going wrong so they fix it for free now rather then me paying for after warranty is up...since dealer just bills Audi Canada/USA for the repairs anyway I thought I might take advantage ... Read More

Audi A4 Avant vs. BMW 3-Series Wagon vs. Mercedes C-Class Wagon

• reliability question

  Written by: rosomax on Nov 8, 2007 3:35:36 PM

  Folks, I am looking at the 2003-2004 325xi or 2004-2005 1.8 A4. Both in wagon form (dogs). They both have 1) AWD 2) Manual tranny (essential) BMW is reputed to be more reliable than Audi. But it's a lot slower (they fixed it in 2006 but it's too expensive). I realize I would have to get an extended warranty no matter what choice I make, but I would like to minimize ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Audi A4 Oil Problem?

  Written by: dunlapjim on Nov 5, 2007 12:04:59 AM

  I have a 2004 A4 1.8T (79,000 mi.)which is now sitting as upon completion of a 2.5 hour drive the check engine and oil light went on and the engine began sounding a bit like a diesel engine. I immediately parked and it needed 1.5 qts of oil to top it off, but other than that I have done nothing. It seems to be foolish to drive 6 miles it to ... Read More

Ultimate AWD Sports Sedans

• Re: Edmunds: RS4 > IS-F [circlew]

  Written by: habitat1 on Oct 31, 2007 1:44:42 AM

  Do you really think Audi handling performance is that much better 335xi vs. an A4 awd? I think there are too many varieties of fruit getting into the basket for meaningful comparison here. As Shipo said, the AWD RS4 "winning" against the RWD IS-F is hardly a validation of anything. As for BMW's vs. Audi's AWD systems, IMO, Audi's gets more accolades because the alternative in the A4 is a ho-hum ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• 2004 A4 oil problem, need help.

  Written by: chrisyak23 on Sep 13, 2007 3:39:17 PM

  Hello, I have a 2002 A4 with just over 90,000 miles. I have had issues with my oil level. I have had it in several times and they never find a leak. Just took it in again and they did an oil consumption test on it and still couldn't find the problem. The tech at the dealer called Audi of America and they advised him that 1 - 1.5 quarts used ... Read More

• Re: should I buy an Audi??? [skinsfan1]

  Written by: athornton on Oct 1, 2007 9:11:20 PM

  Hi You have probably read my comments on Audi (and by implication, VW). Audi has steadfastly refused to honor its warranty commitments on failures which should not have happened, given the age, mileage and top-notch treatment that we have given the car (2004 Audi A4, 25000 miles). Our repair costs have totaled about $2800 in this time. Our treatment at the hands of Audi has been so abysmal that we will ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: 3990 lbs?! [sevenfeet0]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Sep 29, 2007 5:24:28 AM

  I have found faults with the new CTS. For the most part, these faults would not rule the new CTS out. The thing is, to my eye, beautiful and seemingly well made (fit and finish wise, at least.) I think it is an STS killer and if that does come true, it will probably enter the LPS class. It is, at this moment in time, still a "near" LPS contestant. NOT ... Read More

• Re: 3990 lbs?! [sevenfeet0]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Sep 26, 2007 5:52:14 PM

  The BMW turbo charged engine generates damn near weapons grade torque at damn near "nuttin'" RPM's. The CTS DI engine generates adequate, nearly ample torque -- but not so much when compared with the BMW blown engine which generates MUCH more torque at MUCH lower RPM. The CTS at this "point of inflection" is a direct competitor with the BMW 3, Audi A4, Infiniti G35, etc. It's wheelbase, to be sure, ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Audi Extended Warranty

  Written by: shivdasa on Aug 26, 2007 3:07:21 PM

  Hi everyone. I have a 2004 A4 Cabriolet and the standard 4 yr 50,000 mile warranty is about to expire. Are the extended warranties worth it? They seem expensive - $3,000 to $4,000 but it also seems from reading this discussion, that Audis have lots of problems. Any suggestions/recommendations on whether the extended warranties are worthwhile? Thanks.

• Re: Does 2007(2005+) Audi A4 last long? [gciaccia36]

  Written by: athornton on Aug 17, 2007 10:15:33 PM

  Hi: AS you may have gathered from the experience that we reported with our 2004 Audi A4 6-spd, our clutch failure occurred well within our standard warranty period, (25000 miles and less than 3 years), but Audi would not honor the warranty, so I suspect that purchasing the extended warranty would be money down the drain. Regards athornton

• Re: Does 2007(2005+) Audi A4 last long? [jamiewu0203]

  Written by: athornton on Aug 13, 2007 7:55:32 PM

  Hi: Our 2004 A4 Quattro (with manual transmission) has cost us $2600 in 26000 miles and less than 3 years. We had a distorted door, a failed clutch, and a broken catch on the center glove compartment (so far unfixed). My wife, who is a teacher, is 59 years old and drives the car 98% of the time. Despite a 4-yr 50000 mile warranty, our dealership (Maplewood Audi, St. Paul, Minnesota) ... Read More

Lexus IS 250 AWD vs. Audi A4 2.0 quattro

• Re: Lexus IS 250 AWD vs. Audi A4 2.0 quattro [jzalkin]

  Written by: kc567567 on Aug 3, 2007 6:13:40 PM

  I have never even bothered to program the voice commands ,,,,, just don't think its worth the hassle. I like the smartkey a lot too ,,,, I only touch the remote to open all 4 windows and moon roof as I approach the car. Faster cool off, and I usually drive with air off and windows down anyway. KC

• Lexus IS 250 AWD vs. Audi A4 2.0 quattro

  Written by: taruky on Jul 31, 2007 8:10:07 PM

  I am a 2004 Audi A4 quattro owner. My premium purchase plan (basically a flexible lease/balloon payment program) ends in a few months and I've narrowed my replacement choices to the A4 and IS 250. I have test driven both and like certain features in each. Audi: The drive is a little more peppy with that European purr. Interior materials are first rate, but the car is a little short on ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: I love this board... [louiswei]

  Written by: jzalkin on Jul 28, 2007 9:47:58 PM

  Here is my take with the following disclamer: I own a 2006 IS250 RWD and had a 2004 A4 Cab 1.8t before it. I chose the Lexus over the BMW because of value and comfort. I am in South FL and the roads are a grid system. Only handling I get to experience is 90 degree turns so the BMW handeling factor was out. The BMW was more and did not ... Read More

• Re: BMW 3xi vs. Lexus IS 250 & Audi A4 [das107]

  Written by: habitat1 on Jul 26, 2007 1:44:34 PM

  My vote is for a 328i RWD. Unless you really need AWD (i.e. anticipate driving in snow on more than an occasional basis), you are paying a lot for AWD. It is heavier, less fuel efficient and, depending upon how long you keep the car, prone to more expensive maintenance and repairs down the road. The A4 Quatro is a heavy pig, IMO. I've been given one a couple of times ... Read More

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• Re: 2001 Audi A4 [andys120]

  Written by: a4quattro on Jul 25, 2007 5:27:35 PM

  We have a 2004 Toyota Sienna and it has been a piece of .... well you can fill in the blank. New brake pads constantly, 3 sets of tires in 40,000 miles (I think the dealer is not rotating them, but saying they are and we are paying for it) and trying to gouge us to buy their way-over-priced tires. Seat back falls off repeatedly off driver's side seat, sheet metal ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k [ryannail]

  Written by: ryannail on Jul 18, 2007 7:56:17 PM

  UPDATE Finally a success story. After having the car for about 4 days or so the dealer indicated the clutch replacement repair was covered under warranty. Apparently they sent pictures of the parts to Germany and although it was a close call the dealer indicated he talked Audi into covering the repair. Saved me $3,100, thank goodness. Cheers.

Audi A4 2.0 AWD vs. BMW 328xi

• Solved the problem

  Written by: driver100 on Jul 18, 2007 8:43:00 AM

  I think I may have solved the problem. I am considering trading in my 2004 X3 for a 2008 3 Series hardtop/convertible. I haven't had a convertible since my 1960 Sprite, and I did try it with the top down and it was fun! Also tried a manual, which I haven't owned since I was a teenager and I really like it. My wife wants to get an Audi with manual ... Read More

Audi A4 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Pricing on S-Line? [drjoed]

  Written by: smogil on Jul 13, 2007 12:42:16 PM

  I've never had a Lexus, but I've had several problems with my 2004 A4 CVT. They're completely different cars.. I remember I didn't like the Lexus having too small of a trunk and that it was rear-wheel drive. I think the Audi can work out cheaper as well. But like I said, lots and lots of problems. Service has been fantastic and they've fixed them all quickly. I also like the ... Read More

• Re: Buying a 2004 A4 Quattro AWD 6 Speed Manual [zmp]

  Written by: bigpapaluke on Jul 10, 2007 10:54:38 AM

  My salesman never mentioned a break-in period, and he also had a 2006 Audi 2.0T. It's your investment, and if you're not comfortable with their initial diagnosis, call and set an appointment with the service department, and ask to take one of the service reps on a test drive to see if they can feel the lag too. I'm still surprised this issue is on the manual transmission, as it's been ... Read More

• Re: Buying a 2004 A4 Quattro AWD 6 Speed Manual [zmp]

  Written by: bigpapaluke on Jul 9, 2007 6:35:43 PM

  Has the Turbo Lag issue died down? Did you end up getting a 6MT or an Automatic? If the former, I would be shocked by the Turbo lag because I've test driven multiple Audi(s) with manuals and never experienced a delay in the turbo response. Just food for thought, test drive your car before you purchase it, just so you know the driving dynamics of the car you're going to take ... Read More

• Re: Price Paid... [smogil]

  Written by: zmp on Jul 8, 2007 8:16:31 PM

  Hello!! I bought the car last Tuesday. I hadn't done any research on this car in particular since I was thinking about buying a pre-owned 2004 A4 instead. It just has the premium package and the bluetooth option. I think it's a 2007 instead of a 2007.5 because I had the bluetooth added without having to add the Convenience Package as required if you Build your Audi in their website. Did ... Read More

Buying a Used A4

• Re: 2003 Audi A4 convertible [jeep53]

  Written by: pat on Jul 5, 2007 3:19:13 PM

  You know what, more people will probably see your question if you post it here: Audi A4 2004 and earlier. Congrats and enjoy!!

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k [christian78]

  Written by: cneff on Jul 4, 2007 12:21:38 PM

  Christian78 and anyone else that had dealings with Audi Thanks for the results of the story...it brings back memories. I have a few posts here related to my Audi experience which they called "unique", but reading all of the complaints, etc it seems many of us are enjoying these "unique" experiences. It seems it is not the car but the company. Audi seems unable or refuses to take ownership for the ... Read More

• Re: 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k [christian78]

  Written by: athornton on Jul 2, 2007 6:56:22 PM

  Christian: Many thanks for the update, and congratulations on your persistence and overall success! I am collecting posts such as yours in preparation for an approach to the State Attorney General's Office with a request to investigate the practices of Maplewood Audi, Minnesota, and the Audi Corporation of America. Thanks Regards Arnold T

• Re: 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k [ryannail]

  Written by: christian78 on Jul 2, 2007 12:37:56 PM

  Ryannail & Athornton: Thanks to those who responded to my original post regarding my premature clutch failure. Two and a half months after my car broke down, I finally have a resolution through the Better Business Bureau's Auto Line arbitration program. In a nutshell, I won my case but still managed to lose financially. Prior to the case hearing on June 11th, a third party mechanic from the BBB went to ... Read More

• Re: 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k [ryannail]

  Written by: pacifier on Jun 26, 2007 11:10:48 AM

  Sorry to hear, I should have done my homework before buying the audi. I heard about the sludge problem they once had with the older models causing the engine to seize, but they assured me this problem was rectified in the newer models. After reading all the problems in this forum I’m seriously considering trading in the car for a lexus, which is more reliable. Got the call yesterday my starter ... Read More

• Re: 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k [christian78]

  Written by: ryannail on Jun 25, 2007 10:54:43 AM

  Christian78: I feel your pain. I was just stranded yesterday under similar conditions. I finance a 2004 A4 1.8T Quatro Audi and the clutch went out without warning at about 36K miles. After crawling to a stop in San Francisco my passengers jumped in a cab while I called Audi Emergency Road Service. The service was horrible. I had to wait over 2.5 hours for a tow truck to arrive (they ... Read More

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• Re: Lease vs. Buy Conundrum [raudiaudi]

  Written by: mcwenzel on Jun 7, 2007 11:26:20 AM

  You won't be buying the car from the dealer, you will be buying it from VCI Account Services, LLC, who Audi assigns their lease rights to. You can buy it at the end of the lease and resell it, but you will be subject to double taxation depending on your state. Also, 2004 A4's are not going for 25k. That might be the asking price, but not the selling price. I ... Read More

• Lease vs. Buy Conundrum

  Written by: raudiaudi on Jun 7, 2007 10:25:44 AM

  I worked out the math on a 2007 a4 Audi. Now my comparison is lease vs. buy numbers. On the buy side, I would be looking at a finance loan of 35k, 60 mos. at %5.89 with a payment of about 675/mo. Where as the 36 mos. lease is 379/month 10k mi/yr. Here is the kicker. The residual value on the car after the 36mo. lease is at $18,796.40 and the ... Read More

• Re: 2004 A4 lease expiring 16000 miles under [tizzle]

  Written by: Car_man on May 31, 2007 3:23:40 AM

  Greetings tizzle. It is difficult for me to say if you will be able to negotiate the same monthly payment that you currently have on the new car that you are interested in. If you provide me with the full MSRP and selling price of the new car, I can use Audi's current lease program to estimate what your monthly payment should be for you. The best way to get a ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6sp manual clutch failure at 29k

  Written by: christian78 on May 31, 2007 6:09:54 PM

  I have a familiar problem, one that at least 19 other Audi owners/posters have already detailed. I'm so ANGRY (hence the long post) that so many people seem to suffer from premature and repeated clutch failure, and not a single person seems to have had any success fighting Audi, in court or otherwise. My details: * I leased my Audi A4 1.8T new in 2004. I drive it less than 10k ... Read More

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• A4 Lease Deal?

  Written by: eurocarlov on May 9, 2007 1:59:33 PM

  I have a 2004 Nissan Murano SL AWD.. pretty much loaded up. Its on a lease 400 a month... didnt put any money down, 15k per year, 42 months (52,500 miles total). I still have a year left on the lease, but am quickly approaching my mileage limit (ALREADY). The payoff is still around $22,000). I am very interested in an Audi A4 1.8T Quattro, pretty basic, with Premium Package. I ... Read More

A4 replacement: Mazda6 or Mazda3 and which engine

• Re: Audi A4 replacement: Mazda6 or Mazda3 and which engine? [leftfrank]

  Written by: 204meca on May 2, 2007 9:29:51 PM

  Frank: We own a 2004 A4 1.8T w CVT. For 5 days I drove a Mazda6 2.3 W 5 spd AT & could not help comparing the two. Engine: A4 definitely has more power/faster, but the 2.3 was pretty peppy, more than adequate for 2 people w luggage. Mileage from our A4 has been exceptional; with midgrade gas it gets 26-27 in city & 33-36 highway. We went almost 400 in ... Read More

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• 2004 A4 lease expiring 16000 miles under

  Written by: tizzle on Apr 14, 2007 1:20:49 PM

  Greetings Carman!! My 2004 Audi A4 1.8T's lease is to expire next month. We are currently 16000 miles under our allowed mileage. We would like to just drive a A4 2.0T with premium package and heated front seats off the lot paying the same lease as we have on our '04 383.84/month. Do you think the dealer where we leased the car from would allow us to do this? What is ... Read More

• Breaking Lease for new car...

  Written by: wootang00 on Apr 8, 2007 11:34:48 PM

  Hi! I have a 2004 Audi A4 with 49,XXX miles on the car. I leased the car in May 2004 for $270 per month (inc. taxes) on a 4 yr, 10,000mi plan. I still got a year to go on my lease and am looking to try to turn it back into audi to pick up a new a4. I guess the question is: What kind of penalties or fees am ... Read More

2004 Audi A4 1.8T Ultrasport vs. 2000 Audi S4

• 2004 Audi A4 1.8T ultrasprort vs. 2000 Audi S4

  Written by: bom_er on Apr 8, 2007 7:48:52 PM

  alright, so I have a 2000 S4 right now. it is in the shop more than im driving it. ive had it for 3 years and spent $7000 on top of what i paid for it just in repairs. I was offered to trade my car for a 2004 A4 1.8t ultrasport. Im stuck in between the both of them. I love my car but am tired of all the repair ... Read More

A4 replacement: Mazda6 or Mazda3 and which engine

• Audi A4 replacement: Mazda6 or Mazda3 and which engine?

  Written by: leftfrank on Mar 30, 2007 7:52:56 PM

  There's no generic Mazda group so I'm posting this in both the Mazda6 and Mazda3 groups. The lease on my 2004 A4 1.8T quattro 6M is coming to its end next month, and I'm looking at Mazdas to replace it (can't spend that much again). But I can't decide which would be the closest replacement: -Mazda3 2.3 hatch (trunk is way too small for me). -Mazda6 2.3 sedan or hatch -Mazda6 ... Read More

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• Lease ending: To Buy or Not To Buy?

  Written by: leftfrank on Mar 14, 2007 10:22:51 AM

  My beloved 2004 A4 1.8T Quattro 6-speed manual is coming to the end of its 42 month lease. The residual price is $17,300. Looking at what this car is currently selling for, this seems like it might be a good deal. Is it? I am also concerned about a warranty going forward. I would have 6 months left on the factory warranty, and considering the cost of Audi repairs, I want ... Read More

• 2004 A4 lease ending: Residual price negotiable?

  Written by: leftfrank on Mar 9, 2007 10:20:13 AM

  My 2004 A4 lease is ending in 6 weeks. I am considering buying it and I'm wondering if there is a chance that Audi Financial will negotiate down the residual price that is in the original lease agreement? Also, does Audi offer extended warrantees and what might they cost (ballpark)? Thanks. Frank

• Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Cabriolet Convertable 2004

  Written by: lxa0411 on Mar 2, 2007 8:18:21 AM

  Hello, I am not sure where i would need to post this but i am relocating to the East and would like to sell my Audi A4. It is grey, black top, grey leather. It has 35,000 miles. Beautiful car but i need to sell it. I have two other cars and a baby on the way. You can email me if your interested at alvarezrrb@yahoo.com.

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

• Re: '99 A4 1.8T 5-speed- Should I Buy? [kelbelle37]

  Written by: amm2 on Jun 13, 2006 3:56:47 PM

  I don't know how I missed all these posts. I was looking at a 2004 A4 1.8 quattro avant certified. It seemed worthwhile with an extended warranty until a had another dealer salesman warn me off Audi, he even recommended some of his other competitors! So I guess he's being honest with me. I was impressed with the quattro snow ability. This would be a 100000 warranty from Audi, but if ... Read More

• Up date from satisfied owner of 2004 A4

  Written by: 204meca on Jun 13, 2006 12:59:06 PM

  As an A4 owner & follower of this forum, I have some great news. No I did not get a great deal on my insurance (thought it is very reasonable)! We got the A4 sedan, 1.8T for comfort, expected to be able to equal or slightly exceed EPA numbers. Big surprise is how Audi has managed to get both plenty of punch & economy in this package. I am a self ... Read More

• How to price 2004 Audi A4 1.8T Cabriolet?

  Written by: thankdog on Feb 15, 2007 1:15:27 PM

  Hello folks I am at a loss here. I've been researching how to place a fair price on my car which I have to sell. It is paid for and i hate to do it - but alas - as fun as this car has been - you just cannot put two 300 VariKennels into it for my two dogs ! :) I have seen pricing from as low as 25,000 ... Read More

Audi A4 2005+

• A4 Owners

  Written by: driver100 on Feb 9, 2007 9:54:23 AM

  I have a 2004 X3 that I like very much..however, I have one major problem that BMW can't fix. If the temperature is about 5 degrees below freezing my power windows don't work. Very embarassing when a Focus can get through the drive through alright and I have to open my door! It is a safety factor too, when you can't pay or reach the button for parking etc. If the ... Read More

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• Re: Audi A4: Lease Questions [Car_man]

  Written by: giampiero6 on Feb 3, 2007 4:11:08 PM

  Hi Car_man and everybody. Thanks for this cool forum. Very informative! I have a question regarding a lease. I currently have a 2004 A4 1.8T Cabriolet, with sport suspension, and heated seats. 40k miles. It's pretty basic. Current payments are $500 with tax included. My lease is up in a couple of months and I'm looking at getting into the 2007 A4 2.0 CVT Cabriolet. The MSRP for the car is ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: BMWs are over-rated [habitat1]

  Written by: tlong on Jan 7, 2007 11:36:32 PM

  "I had a 2004 TL 6-spd also. Liked the TL's engine, chunky gearbox action and great stereo; disliked the on/off switch clutch, uncommunicative steering which loaded up heavily and asymmetrically, it's tendency to wander around if not watched constantly, it's flatspotting std EL42s" It just goes to show you that everyone can have different impressions and opinions of the same car. On your positives, I agree with you on the gearbox ... Read More

Audi A4 Avant vs. BMW 3-Series Wagon vs. Mercedes C-Class Wagon

• A$ vs 328xi

  Written by: badnews on Dec 17, 2006 9:00:33 PM

  I don't have experience with all the vehicles, but I just passed my 2004 MDX onto my wife and was comparing the A4 Avant with the 328xi. Being a prior satisfied Audi owner, I was trying to decide between the 2.0 and the 3.2. But then I saw a comparison test between the A4 and the 328xi and decided I needed to test drive that vehicle. Back when I bought my ... Read More

Audi A4 2005+

• Re: As for A4 engines... [markcincinnati]

  Written by: dl7265 on Sep 22, 2006 9:27:05 PM

  "NO A6 FWD's and NO A4 FWD's have been sold, so says the sales mgr here in Cinti -- at least since 2004". O boy, Sound's like some people need to hear Mr. Shipo's "winter tires are better then awd speech" That is just hard to imagine. Granted Audi has hung it's hat on the "unfair advantage of Quattro" Although now everybody's doing it.. One of my biggest issues of Fwd ... Read More

• Re: As for A4 engines... [byronwalter]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Sep 22, 2006 12:36:13 PM

  There are very few FWD Audis sold here in SW Ohio -- only a lone A3 FWD is on our dealer's lot, in fact. NO A6 FWD's and NO A4 FWD's have been sold, so says the sales mgr here in Cinti -- at least since 2004. Maybe this is so. In any case I can hardly imagine anyone considering an Audi FWD, but I can see people considering both AWD ... Read More

Audi A4 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: [mike2003a4]

  Written by: jlouka on Aug 13, 2006 7:26:40 PM

  Hey I seem to be having similar problems with my 2004 A4 and I thought it was just me. Other people I talk to seem to love their A4's and I cant wait to get rid of mine. I also leased mine from Audi of Smithtown . . . actually i'm on my 2nd a4. My first one had so many problems I filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau ... Read More

Audi A4 2005+

• BMW to the rescue?

  Written by: markcincinnati on Aug 29, 2006 5:41:50 AM

  It's not that I think Audi needs to be rescued, but I must admit I was somewhat upset when Audi announced their new engine line up and I found no more V6 turbo motors were offered. My personal history with Audi's turbo motors began when I picked up a 1987 5000CS quattro -- equipped with a 5 cylinder, two-valver rated, as I recall at 160HP. Over time, we (my wife and ... Read More

Audi A4 Lease Questions

• Re: Audi A4: Lease Questions [Car_man]

  Written by: doc1978 on Aug 26, 2006 3:51:40 AM

  Need your opinion carman. I have a 2004 Audi A4 my lease is up in a year and 5 months. However I can only put 2000 more miles on before i get charged the .25 cents a mile. The car was appraised at 15500 and the buy out is 19600. I am willing to go into another lease. Is there any lease deals out there that can eat up the upside ... Read More

Audi A4 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 97' A4 2.8 Quattro [mnhockey29]

  Written by: kyfdx on Aug 11, 2006 6:46:32 PM

  Hi, mnhockey29.. Since this is primarily a pricing discussion, you might have better luck posing your question in one of the other A4 discussions.. Audi A4: Problems & Solutions Audi A4 - 2004 and earlier Regards, kyfdx