1999 Audi A4 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 1999 Audi A4
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module.
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2001 Audi A4 earns a 75.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (1.8t specifically) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 1999 Audi A4?
The 1999 Audi A4, while offering exceptional driving dynamics and a premium feel for its age, is undeniably a vehicle that demands diligence and a healthy maintenance budget. Do not expect Japanese car reliability; instead, anticipate a rewarding ownership experience for those prepared for its specific Teutonic quirks and necessary upkeep.
Biggest Strengths
- Quattro AWD system (excellent traction)
- Solid, engaging driving dynamics
- High-quality interior materials (for its era)
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 1999 Audi A4. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 TT Roadster, 2000 TT Coupe, 1999 Audi A8, 1998-2000 Audi A6, and 1999-2000 Audi A4 vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) that do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, possibly causing the air bag to deploy improperly in the event of a crash.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.
What breaks on the 1999 Audi A4?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Audi A4 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Audi A4. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
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Frequently Asked Questions
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