What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1996–2000) A4?

A4 owners have made 16 complaints about the 1996–2000 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 30th out of 39 Audi generations in overall reliability, with real transmission and drivetrain concerns.

Compare With Other A4 Generations

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

1st Generation (1996–2000) A4 Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 16 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 30th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 39 eligible generations.

Recent 1st Generation (1996–2000) 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.