About the Audi A4
AI-generatedThe Audi A4 is a premium executive saloon that has been a cornerstone of Audi's lineup since 1994. Competing directly with the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the A4 combines sophisticated styling, excellent build quality, and advanced technology with a choice of efficient petrol and diesel engines. Available as a four-door saloon or five-door Avant estate, it offers a compelling blend of comfort, refinement, and driving dynamics that appeals to business users and private buyers alike. The current generation (B9, launched 2015 and facelifted in 2019) features Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard, comprehensive safety systems, and the latest MMI infotainment. Engine options include 1.4 and 2.0-litre TFSI petrol units, plus 2.0 and 3.0-litre TDI diesels, with quattro all-wheel drive available on higher-powered models. The A4 is renowned for its spacious, beautifully finished interior, low running costs (especially diesel models), and strong residual values. While not the most engaging to drive compared to some rivals, it excels as a refined, comfortable long-distance cruiser with excellent motorway manners.
Generations
Known Issues
Known Issues
B9 (2015-2023)
2015-2020
- EGR valve failures on 2.0 TDI engines causing rough running and warning lights
- AdBlue system faults, particularly injector failures on diesel models
- Sunroof rattles and water leaks in early models
- DPF clogging on diesel engines with predominantly short journeys
- Infotainment system freezing or rebooting unexpectedly
- Dual-clutch S tronic gearbox juddering at low speeds when cold
- Oil consumption issues on some 2.0 TFSI petrol engines
- Front suspension bushes wearing prematurely causing knocking noises
B8 (2007-2015)
2007-2015
- Timing chain tensioner failure on 2.0 TFSI engines (pre-2012 particularly affected)
- Turbocharger failures on 2.0 TDI engines, especially CR170 version
- Dual-mass flywheel failures causing vibration and noise on manual diesels
- DPF problems on diesel models with short urban journeys
- EGR valve issues on diesel engines
- Automatic gearbox mechatronic unit failures causing erratic shifting
- Front wishbone bushes deteriorating and causing handling issues
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,400-£2,200
Insurance Group
20-32
Average Service
£350-£550
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£24,000 - £32,000
£18,000 - £25,000
£14,000 - £20,000
£7,000 - £12,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and premium interior materials throughout
- Excellent refinement with quiet cabin and comfortable ride quality
- Efficient engine range with impressive fuel economy, especially diesels
- Advanced technology including Virtual Cockpit and comprehensive safety systems
- Strong residual values compared to non-premium competitors
- Spacious interior with generous rear legroom and boot space
- Avant estate offers excellent practicality without compromising style
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - Benefited from facelift with improved infotainment, updated styling, and resolved many early B9 generation teething problems. More refined engines and better equipment levels as standard.
- 2020 - Most reliable of the B9 generation with all major issues resolved. Excellent specification levels and mild-hybrid technology on many models improving efficiency. Strong warranty coverage for used buyers.
- 2017 - Early B9 model with most initial issues ironed out but before stricter emissions regulations added complexity. Good balance of technology, reliability, and value for used buyers.
Worst Years
- 2008 - Early B8 models suffered from significant timing chain tensioner issues on 2.0 TFSI engines that could lead to catastrophic engine failure. Also prone to turbo problems on diesels.
- 2016 - First year of B9 generation had various teething troubles including sunroof leaks, infotainment glitches, and early AdBlue system problems on diesels that hadn't been fully resolved.
Buying Checklist
Engine7 items
- Check for oil leaks around cam cover and sump - common on higher mileage examples
- Listen for timing chain rattle on 2.0 TFSI engines, especially on cold start (pre-2012 particularly)
- Inspect for blue smoke from exhaust indicating turbocharger wear on diesel models
- Check oil level and condition - should be clean and at correct level
- Look for EGR valve warning lights or error codes on diesel engines
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The A4 name stands for 'Audi 4-door' and the model was originally designed to replace the Audi 80
Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system was first developed for rally racing in the 1980s and gives the A4 excellent all-weather traction
The A4 Avant estate offers one of the largest boot capacities in its class at 495 litres (1,495 litres with seats folded)
Virtual Cockpit, now standard on most A4s, was first introduced on the 2014 Audi TT and revolutionised digital instrumentation
Alternatives to Consider
BMW 3 Series
7/10More engaging to drive with sharper handling and better rear-wheel drive dynamics. Slightly less refined but appeals to keen drivers. Similar running costs and premium appeal.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
7/10More luxurious interior and smoother ride quality. Better for comfort-focused buyers. Excellent build quality and slightly more prestigious badge appeal in the UK market.
Jaguar XE
6/10British alternative with distinctive styling and excellent handling. Often cheaper to buy used with similar specifications. Good equipment levels but less established reliability record.
Owner Tips
- 1Always check full service history with evidence of oil changes every 10,000 miles or annually - critical for timing chain longevity on TFSI engines
- 2For diesel models, ensure regular long motorway runs (30+ miles) at least weekly to regenerate the DPF and prevent costly blockages
- 3Budget for AdBlue top-ups every 6,000-10,000 miles on post-2015 diesel models - warning light appears with plenty of notice
- 4Consider using Audi specialists rather than main dealers for servicing after warranty expires - significant cost savings with same quality parts
- 5Check for software updates at service time as Audi regularly releases fixes for infotainment and engine management issues
- 6Inspect suspension bushes and track rod ends annually as these wear items can affect handling and tyre wear if neglected
- 7On S tronic dual-clutch gearbox models, allow to warm up before driving hard - juddering when cold is normal within reason
- 8
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