1998 Audi A8 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 1998 Audi A8?
While a technological marvel in its day and still a pleasure to drive, the 1998 Audi A8 presents a significant financial commitment to maintain its luxury. Expect an engaging ownership experience, but only if you are prepared for the specialized care and potential for expensive repairs that come with this sophisticated, aging German executive sedan.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 4.2L V8 engine (if maintained)
- Durable aluminum space frame chassis
- Sophisticated quattro AWD system
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 1998 Audi A8. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 13,900 MY 1996-2003 AUDI A8 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE LOCKING CABLE MAY MOVE OUT OF POSITION OVER TIME. WITH THE LOCKING CABLE OUT OF POSITION, THE SHIFTER CAN BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION EVEN IF THE IGNITION KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION LOCK.
STEERING:LINKAGES:ROD:RELAY:CONNECTING
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TIE RODS OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY ARE PROTECTED ON EACH SIDE BY A SEAL TO PREVENT MOISTURE AND DUST PARTICLES FROM ENTERING THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SOME TIE ROD SEALS MAY NOT SEAL PROPERLY.
What breaks on the 1998 Audi A8?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Audi A8 by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Audi A8. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.
Relevant Products for Your 1998 Audi A8
Parts and accessories matched to your 1998 Audi A8
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Frequently Asked Questions
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