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2019 Audi A4 Report

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

Updated Jun 2, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize confirming the completion of Recall 21V874000, which addresses a critical defect in the passenger airbag system due to issues with the PODS and seat heater cable.
  • The vehicle's 'Below Average' reliability verdict, influenced by this critical recall and a high TSB count (156), suggests potential for ongoing technical advisories.
  • While no owner complaints are logged, the expanded recall indicates a persistent issue that warrants close inspection of related components.
  • Expect good fuel efficiency with a combined EPA rating of 30 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Audi A4

The 2019 Audi A4 aims for the luxury compact sedan segment, blending sophisticated styling with a comfortable interior and engaging driving dynamics. This front-wheel-drive model, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, delivers respectable fuel economy for its class. However, potential buyers should be aware of its reliability record, which is marked by a significant recall concerning the passenger occupant detection system and seat heater cable, alongside a substantial number of technical service bulletins.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall addresses issues with the PODS and seat heater cable, which can lead to the passenger airbag being incorrectly disabled or other electrical faults. This is a significant safety concern.

Early detection can help you avoid a $700-$1,200 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
30
MPG
City
27
MPG
Highway
34
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

5.4/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers seeking a premium German sedan experience on a used car budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand absolute mechanical simplicity and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Audi A4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 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
30

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

Most Common Issues

1. Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) / Seat Heater Cable Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Oil Consumption

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Audi A4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Audi A4 is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Audi A4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Audi A4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Audi A4 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) / Seat Heater Cable (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Audi A4?▾

Base MSRP is $46,200.

What engine is in the 2019 Audi A4?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Audi A4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Audi A4, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2019 A4 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Audi A4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 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 2019 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Audi A4, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Audi A4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Audi A4, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Audi A4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Audi A4, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Audi A4?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Audi A4?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class and 2019 Lexus ES.

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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