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2016 Audi A4 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ryan Davis
2016 Audi A4 Report

Overall Score

8.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Audi A4 boasts a perfect 5-star NHTSA safety rating, providing confidence in occupant protection.
  • With zero recalls and zero complaints logged by NHTSA, this model appears to have avoided major safety defects or widespread owner dissatisfaction.
  • A high TSB count of 101 suggests Audi issued numerous technical bulletins to address system refinements or minor issues, making a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection crucial.
  • The 2.0L turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission offer a good balance of performance and fuel economy, rated at 27 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Audi A4

The 2016 Audi A4 presents a compelling package for used car buyers seeking a blend of premium feel, engaging driving dynamics, and strong safety credentials. With a perfect 5-star NHTSA rating across all crash tests, this Audi prioritizes occupant protection. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a respectable 220 horsepower, paired with an efficient 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, achieving a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG. While the absence of recalls and complaints is a positive sign, a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicates Audi was actively refining systems. This suggests potential for minor, non-safety-critical issues that warrant careful inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Some 2.0 TFSI engines can develop issues with oil consumption, potentially due to worn piston rings or PCV system faults. This can lead to increased oil levels being burned, requiring more frequent top-offs.

Early detection can help you avoid a $700-$1,200 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
220HP
Torque
258 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
24
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

5.9/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a refined German sedan with a focus on safety and a comfortable ride.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical simplicity and minimal potential for minor issues.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Audi A4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Audi A4.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
220 hp
Torque
258 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Chassis Cab
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. Oil Consumption

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Ignition Coil Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Audi A4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Audi A4 is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Audi A4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.9/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 480 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Audi A4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Audi A4 is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Audi A4?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Ignition Coils (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2016 Audi A4?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.0. Output is 220 hp • 258 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2016 Audi A4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi A4, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 A4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Audi A4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Audi A4?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2016 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi A4, fuel economy range is 21-27 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2016 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi A4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi A4, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Audi A4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Audi A4, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Audi A4?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Audi A4?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class and 2016 Acura TLX.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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