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The Audi A4 years to avoid are 2011, 2009, 2003, 2008, and 2017, with the 2011 model being the worst due to excessive oil consumption requiring $6,000 engine replacements at approximately 65,000 miles[1]. Despite these problematic years, the A4 earns a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating overall, ranking 14th out of 31 luxury midsize cars[2]. The safest choices for used A4 buyers are 2018-2020 models, which earned near-perfect reliability scores[3].
Audi A4 Model Years to Avoid
While the Audi A4 maintains reasonable overall reliability, certain model years experienced significant problems that make them poor used car choices:
| Model Year | Primary Issue | Avg Repair Cost | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Excessive oil consumption[1] | $6,000 | High |
| 2009 | Excessive oil consumption[1] | $1,400+ | Most complaints |
| 2013 | Engine failure[1] | $8,800 | Moderate |
| 2003 | Fuel system/cooling issues[3] | High | 215 NHTSA complaints |
| 2017 | Electrical/climate control[4] | Varies | 37/100 reliability |
| 2008 | Engine problems[5] | $1,200+ | Moderate |
2011 Audi A4 (Worst Overall)
The 2011 A4 holds the distinction of being the worst model year based on repair severity and cost[1]. Although the 2009 model accumulated more total complaints, the 2011’s problems prove more expensive and occur at lower mileage.
The primary issue involves excessive oil consumption with the 2.0 TFSI engine[1]. Owners report consuming one quart of oil every 300-500 miles—far exceeding acceptable consumption levels[6]. This problem stems from:
- Faulty piston rings allowing oil into combustion chambers
- Carbon buildup around piston rings
- Oil separator failures[6]
Average repair costs reach $6,000 when engine replacement becomes necessary, typically occurring around 65,000 miles[1]. Consumer Reports rated this model year 1 out of 5 stars for reliability[3].
For buyers researching similar Audi models, see our guides on Audi A3 years to avoid and Audi A5 years to avoid.
2009 Audi A4 (Most Complaints)
The 2009 A4 marked the first year of the B8 fourth-generation platform, bringing typical first-year production problems[5]. This model year accumulated the highest total complaint volume of any A4 generation.
Issues affecting the 2009 model include:
- Excessive oil consumption (most reported problem)[1]
- Multiple airbag recalls
- High repair costs averaging $1,406 annually[5]
- Numerous diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
FIXD assigned the 2009 A4 a reliability score of just 1 out of 10[5]. While the used market value sits around $6,219, high ownership costs offset any purchase price savings[5].
2013 Audi A4
The 2013 A4 experienced engine failures costing an average of $8,800 to repair at approximately 91,000 miles[1]. This represents the most expensive average repair cost of any A4 model year.
Common 2013 problems include:
- Complete engine failure
- Timing chain tensioner issues
- Piston failure
- Oil consumption problems[3]
The severity of potential repairs makes the 2013 A4 a risky purchase, particularly for vehicles approaching the 90,000-mile mark.
2003 Audi A4 (Highest NHTSA Complaints)
The 2003 A4 recorded 215 complaints to NHTSA—the highest since 1999[3]. This model year came from the second-generation B6 platform and marked the beginning of a particularly troublesome period for the A4.
Problems spanning the 2003 model include:
- Fuel system failures
- Engine cooling issues
- Speed control malfunctions
- Four separate recalls for fuel pump errors[3]
The combination of age, high complaint volume, and systematic reliability problems makes the 2003 A4 unsuitable for buyers seeking dependable transportation.
2017 Audi A4
The 2017 A4 introduced the B9 fifth-generation platform with updated technology but also brought new reliability concerns[4]. CarComplaints data shows a dramatic spike in complaints compared to the 2015-2016 model years[4].
Issues affecting the 2017 model include:
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Climate control failures
- Wiring problems and plastic engine part failures[7]
- Overall reliability score of just 37 out of 100[4]
Forum owners specifically recommend avoiding the early B9 generation due to these issues[7].
2006-2008 Audi A4 (Third Generation)
The entire B7 third-generation A4 (2006-2008) warrants caution[5]. FIXD assigned these model years the lowest possible reliability score of 1 out of 10 due to:
- High repair costs across the generation
- Low safety scores compared to newer models
- Numerous recalls affecting multiple systems[5]
If budget constraints limit options to the B7 generation, the 2008 model year represents the most reliable choice after Honda resolved early production issues[8].
Common Audi A4 Problems by Generation
Oil Consumption (B8 Generation: 2009-2016)
Excessive oil consumption remains the most reported A4 problem, primarily affecting vehicles with the 2.0 TFSI engine[9]. The issue stems from carbon deposits packing around piston rings, preventing proper sealing[6].
Symptoms include:
- Oil consumption exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles
- Blue smoke from exhaust
- Oil level warnings between scheduled changes
Contributing factors:
- Audi’s recommended 10,000-mile oil change intervals (too long)
- Engine design allowing carbon buildup[6]
Forum members specifically note that 3,000-5,000 mile oil change intervals significantly reduce oil consumption problems[7].
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
The timing chain tensioner poses critical reliability concerns in certain A4 model years[9]. When this component fails, it disrupts engine synchronization and can cause catastrophic damage.
Signs of timing chain tensioner problems:
- Rattling noise at startup
- Check engine light
- Rough idle or misfires
- Engine won’t start
Timing chain repairs typically cost $1,500-$3,000 depending on damage severity and whether the chain jumped timing.
Electrical Issues (B9 Generation: 2017+)
The fifth-generation A4 introduced sophisticated electronics that created new failure points[10]. Owners report:
- Malfunctioning infotainment systems
- Faulty warning lights
- Climate control inconsistencies
- Automatic gearbox issues with jerky changes[10]
These problems prove difficult to diagnose and often require dealer-level equipment to resolve properly.
For information on Audi servicing options, see our guide on whether Audi can be serviced anywhere.
Best Audi A4 Years to Buy
Despite problematic years, several A4 model years offer excellent reliability:
| Model Year | Consumer Reports Score | Why It’s Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| 2018-2020 | 5/5[3] | Perfect scores, minimal issues |
| 2015-2016 | 4/5[3] | Most refined B8, bugs resolved |
| 2014 | Good | Final B8 years, proven reliability |
| 2005 | Good | Most reliable B6 option[3] |
Why 2014-2016 Stand Out
Forum owners consistently recommend the 2014-2016 A4 as the optimal used purchase[7]. These final years of the B8 generation benefit from:
- Resolved oil consumption issues from earlier years
- Refined chassis and drivetrain
- Proven reliability with no major design flaws
- Lower used car prices than newer B9 models
The key to ownership success involves purchasing examples under 80,000 miles and maintaining 3,000-5,000 mile oil change intervals[7].
Why 2018-2020 Models Earn Top Ratings
Consumer Reports assigned 2018-2020 A4 models perfect or near-perfect 5 out of 5 reliability scores[3]. By this point, Audi had resolved the early B9 generation issues that plagued the 2017 model year.
These years benefit from:
- Matured infotainment and electrical systems
- Updated engine management reducing oil consumption
- Comprehensive standard safety features
- Modern technology without first-year bugs
For buyers exploring other Audi models, see our rankings of the best Audi sedans and best Audi cars overall.
Audi A4 Reliability Statistics
The Audi A4 maintains average reliability within its segment despite problematic model years[2]:
- Overall reliability rating: 3.5 out of 5.0
- Segment ranking: 14th out of 31 luxury midsize cars
- Average annual repair cost: $739
- Repair frequency: 0.37 visits per year (below average)
- Severe repair probability: 13% (slightly above 12% average)[2]
These figures indicate the A4 offers reasonable long-term ownership when buyers select appropriate model years and maintain proper service intervals.
What to Check When Buying a Used A4
Given known issues, used A4 buyers should verify:
- Complete service history – Confirm regular oil changes at 5,000-mile intervals, not 10,000
- Oil consumption test – Check oil level before and after test drive
- Timing chain inspection – Listen for startup rattle on B8 models
- Electrical functionality – Test all infotainment and climate control features
- Pre-purchase inspection – Have an Audi specialist inspect engine internals
For general used car guidance, see our article on how many miles is good for a used car.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid the 2011 A4—it’s the worst model year with $6,000 engine replacement costs at 65,000 miles[1]
- The 2009 A4 has the most complaints overall and should be avoided[1]
- First-year models (2009, 2017) typically have more problems than later years in each generation
- The 2018-2020 models earned perfect Consumer Reports reliability scores and are the safest choices[3]
- Change oil every 5,000 miles instead of 10,000 to prevent oil consumption issues[7]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable Audi A4 year?
Why does the Audi A4 burn so much oil?
The 2.0 TFSI engine in 2009-2013 A4 models suffers from faulty piston ring design that allows carbon buildup, preventing proper sealing[6]. This causes excessive oil consumption, sometimes reaching one quart per 300-500 miles. Extended 10,000-mile oil change intervals recommended by Audi contributed to the problem[7].
Is the Audi A4 expensive to maintain?
Should I buy a 2017 Audi A4?
The 2017 A4 should be approached cautiously as a first-year redesign with a 37 out of 100 reliability score[4]. The 2018-2020 models resolved early B9 generation issues and earned significantly better reliability ratings. If budget allows, choose a 2018 or newer model.
References
- CarComplaints.com. (2025). Audi A4 Complaints by Model Year. https://www.carcomplaints.com/Audi/A4/
- RepairPal. (2025). Audi A4 Reliability Rating. https://repairpal.com/reliability/audi/a4
- Autvex. (2025). Audi A4 Years to Avoid: Complete US Buyer’s Guide.
Audi A4 Years to Avoid: Full Buyer’s Guide
- SlashGear. (2024). The Most Reliable Years For The Audi A4, And Some To Avoid. https://www.slashgear.com/1704721/audi-a4-years-reliable-avoid/
- FIXD. (2025). Best & Worst Years of Audi A4 – Graphs & Owner Surveys. https://www.fixdapp.com/car-reviews/best-worst-years-of-audi-a4-graphs-owner-surveys/
- Reddit r/AudiA4. (2024). B8 A4 2.0 possible oil consumption solution.
B8 A4 2.0 possible oil consumption solution
byu/BobColorado inAudiA4 - Reddit r/whatcarshouldIbuy. (2021). What Audi A4 year do you recommend?
What Audi A4 year do you recommend?
byu/ryanmile inwhatcarshouldIbuy - CoPilot. (2024). Which Years Of Used Audi A4s Are Most Reliable? https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/most-reliable-year-model-of-the-audi-a4/
- Garage Services Bromley. (2024). Audi A4 Problems: Common Engine Issues and Solutions. https://garageservicesbromley.com/blog/audi-a4-problems-common-engine-issues-and-solutions/
- What Car. (2025). Used Audi A4 – 2015-2024 Reliability & Common Problems. https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a4/estate/used-review/n888/reliability
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
