2018 Audi A4 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The primary ownership concern is a critical recall affecting the passenger airbag system, which can be deactivated due to a faulty seat heater cable connection. Confirm this recall is completed.
- A high volume of 136 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicates potential for various electrical and powertrain issues that may not have escalated to formal complaints.
- Despite a lack of owner complaints, the overall reliability verdict is below average, necessitating a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection.
- Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG.
2018 Audi A4
Critical Failure Risk
A faulty connection in the seat heater cable can lead to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) misdiagnosing the seat occupancy, potentially disabling the passenger airbag. This issue is subject to recall campaign 21V874000.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers who prioritize luxury, comfort, and a premium driving experience.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal maintenance and repair expenses.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Audi A4 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Audi A4.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (AM-S7)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Chassis Cab
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
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Most Common Issues
1. Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) Fault
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. PCV Valve Malfunction
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Est. shop cost: $150 - $250
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Audi A4 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Audi A4 is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2018 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 2018 Audi A4?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Audi A4 is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Audi A4?
Base MSRP is $36,000.
What engine is in the 2018 Audi A4?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2018 Audi A4 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi A4, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 A4 require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Audi A4?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Audi A4?
13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Audi A4?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi A4, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Audi A4?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi A4, body style is chassis_cab.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Audi A4 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi A4, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Audi A4?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Audi A4?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.