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2017 Audi A4 Report

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

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2017 Audi A4 Report

Overall Score

8.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Confirm the critical passenger airbag recall (21V874000) has been completed.
  • Investigate the high TSB count (135) for potential recurring issues.
  • The 2017 A4 achieves a commendable 28 MPG combined.
  • Excellent NHTSA safety ratings, including a 5-star overall score.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Audi A4

The 2017 Audi A4 blends premium comfort with a sophisticated driving experience, but used car shoppers should approach with informed caution. This generation A4 boasts excellent safety scores and efficient operation, making it an attractive luxury sedan. However, a significant recall impacting the airbag system, alongside a substantial number of technical service bulletins, points to potential underlying issues that require thorough pre-purchase scrutiny. Buyers should prioritize confirming the completion of all safety recalls and investigating any reported electronic or system quirks.

Critical Failure Risk

A contact fault in the seat heater cable can affect the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS), potentially disabling the passenger airbag. This is a critical safety issue.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
28
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.7/ 10

Practicality

6.1/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers prioritizing safety and fuel efficiency in a luxury sedan.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a low-maintenance vehicle with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Audi A4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Audi A4.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S7)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Chassis Cab
EPA Combined MPG
28

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Passenger Airbag System Fault

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Electronic System Glitches

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

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Audi A4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Audi A4 is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Audi A4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.1/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 505 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Audi A4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Audi A4 is 8.2/10. Overall score is 8.2/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 6.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 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 at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Passenger Airbag System (PODS) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Audi A4?▾

Base MSRP is $41,100.

What engine is in the 2017 Audi A4?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Audi A4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Audi A4, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 A4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Audi A4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Audi A4?▾

13 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Audi A4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Audi A4, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Audi A4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Audi A4, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Audi A4?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Audi A4?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Audi A4?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class and 2017 Lexus IS.

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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