Model year

2004 Audi S4

Sedan, gasoline, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Jan 16, 2007 to Jul 30, 2018.

Recall campaigns covering this model year19,965 vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints29Close to the median 2004 sedan
Severity index3.42004 sedans average 11.2
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2004 Audi S4 peaked in 2009, with 14 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

051015200720091420112013201520172019202120232026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

52% of complaints about the 2004 Audi S4 name engine and cooling

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Engine and cooling
15
Powertrain
5
Lighting
3
Visibility and wipers
3
Electrical system
2
Steering
2
Airbags
1
Seat belts
1
Brakes
1
Structure
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

One recall campaign covers the 2004 Audi S4

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2004 Audi S4
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
05V-096Mar 15, 2005On certain passenger vehicles, there is a possibility of xenon headlamp coating degradation over timeLighting9,965Part replacement
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2004 Audi S4

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

29 complaints on file, page 1 of 2.

  1. Filed Jul 30, 2018Failure Jul 28, 2018105,000 milesRahway, NJTires

    HANKOOK TIRES, VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 SPLITTING OUTSIDE SIDEWALL, CAUSED TO DEPRESSURE TIRE, WHICH CAUSED TO CRACK TIRE ON THE INNER SIDEWALL SUBSEQUENTLY LED TO MANUFACTURER CLAIM BLAME ON MY VEHICLE. THE TIRE MODEL IS UNDER A RECALL, BUT IN DIFFERENT SIZE, BUT IDENTICAL WALLS, MANUFACTURING PROCESS. MY VEHICLE'S TIRE SIZE 235/40/R18. RECALLED: VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 '245/45R18 96W', '245/40R19 94W', '275/35R19 96W PROPER TIRE PRESSURE WAS MAINTAINED AND CHECKED WEEKLY FOR 3YEARS, SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED.

    NHTSA complaint 11114564
  2. Filed Oct 24, 2017Failure Oct 20, 2017102,000 milesRahway, NJEngine

    AFTER ENGINE COOLS DOWN, TIMING CHAIN RATTLE CAN BE HEARD UPON STARTING THE CAR. CHAIN RATTLE MEANS THAT PLASTIC GUIDES OR ADJUSTERS ARE WORN, AND MIGHT GO ANY SECOND. SPOKE WITH AUDI REP ONLINE, WHICH ADVISES ME THAT THIS IS NORMAL, AND EXPECTED. KNOWING BASICS OF ENGINES AND TRANSMISSION, I DIDN'T BELIEVE THAT SOMETHING IS "LIFE TIME" AND IS NOT SERVICEABLE, ESPECIALLY IF IT'S PLASTIC (WHICH TENDS TO SHRINK AND EXPAND DEPENDING ON TEMPERATURES, AND THEN HAS FRACTURES WHICH SNAPS). TWO DIFFERENT INDEPENDENT LICENSED AUDI SHOPS CONFIRMED THAT THE GUIDES AND ADJUSTERS HAS TO BE REPLACED IN ORDER TO PREVENT CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. CHAIN SKIPPING A TOOTH MIGHT MEAN BENT VALVES, SCORED CYLINDER WALLS AND THE LIST GOES ON. WHAT IS LIFETIME, SHOULD BE COVERED BY AUDI. IF IT'S PROMISED TO BE LIFETIME AND NEEDS NO SERVICE, SHOULDN'T BREAK. IF IT BREAKS THAT ONLY MEANS DESIGN FLAWS, WHICH ARE OBVIOUS IN THIS ENGINE. YES, CAR ISN'T NEW, BUT THE PARTS WERE LIFETIME, SO I'M EXPECTING THEM TO LAST UNTIL ENGINE IS WORN OUT, NOT THE PARTS THAT ARE LIFETIME. IF NHTSA WILL DO FULL SCALE INVESTIGATION. WILL BE OBVIOUS THAT LARGE AMOUNT OF S4'S RANGING FROM 2004 TO 2007 ARE AFFECTED. EVEN 10% IS LARGE NUMBER, CONSIDERED THE COSTS OF FIXING WHAT IS "LIFETIME" ACCORDING TO AUDI, AND WHEN IT FAILS THEY LEAVE THEIR DESIGNS FLAWS FOR YOU TO FIGURE OUT. HOPEFULLY JUSTICE CAN BE BROUGHT TO LIGHT AS TO WHAT AUDI TRIES TO TURN IT'S BACK TO. SYMPTOMS: CHAIN RATTLE UPON START. CHAIN RATTLE DOESN'T GO AWAY WHILE DRIVING. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, LOSS OF POWER OR CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE.

    NHTSA complaint 11036013
  3. Filed May 17, 2016Failure May 15, 2015Poplar Grove, ILElectrical system, Exterior lighting

    XENON HEADLAMPS WIRING ALL CORRODED AND BARE WITH NO INSULATION LEFT. CHECK WITH AUDI AND THEY SAID OUR VEHICLE AND VIN IS NOT PART OF ANY RECALL. YET RCORRD-05V096-4498 IN YOUR DATABASE SHOWS A MOFIFICATION LETTER FROM VW TO INCLUDE OUR VIN. THERE IS NO RECORD ACCORDING TO AUDI SERVICE SHOPS THAT SHOW ANY RECALL WORK DONE TO OUR HEADLIGHTS. I HAVE ATTACHED A PICTURE THAT SHOWS THE DETERIATION OF THE ELECTRICAL WIRING AND HEADLAMPS TO OUR 2004 AUDI S4. WOULD APPRECIATE SOME ASSISTANCE TO HAVING OUR HEADLAMPS REPLACED FOR SAFETY REASONS.

    NHTSA complaint 10865507
  4. Filed Aug 10, 2015Failure Jul 15, 201579,000 milesPoplar Grove, ILElectrical system, Exterior lightingFire

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 AUDI S4. WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, THE LOW BEAM HEAD LAMPS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WITHOUT WARNING. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO THE HEAD LAMP BULBS, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE WIRING WAS BURNED AND DAMAGED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10747523
  5. Filed Dec 17, 2014Failure Dec 15, 2014111 milesHammond, INEngine

    ON SATURDAY MORNING 12/15/2014 START MY CARD AND HEARD A RATTLE NOISE ON THE ENGINE, FIRST TIME IT MAKE THAT NOISE SINCE I BOUGHT IT. ON MY WAY TO WORK I STARTED HEARING THE RATTLE NOISE AGAIN BUT THIS TIME IT WAS LOUDER I WAS DRIVING AROUND 40 MPH WHEN THIS HAPPENED. THE CAR STARTED VIBRATING AND KEPT MAKING THE RATTLE NOISE ON THE ENGINE. I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR NOT EVEN A WEEK AGO, AND ALREADY STARTED HAVING ENGINE PROBLEMS. I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC AND FOUND OUT THE ENGINE MIGHT NEED TO BE REPLACE SOON, SINCE THAT'S A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS CARS AND THAT THAT'S ONE OF THE SIGNS THAT THE ENGINE MIGHT GO BAD SOON. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10666999
  6. Filed Aug 14, 2014Failure Oct 3, 201180,000 milesHamden, CTEngine, Power train

    AUDI CLAIMS THAT THE TIMING CHAIN ON THOSE VEHICLES ARE LIFETIME AND DOES NOT NEED TO BE SERVICE. UNFORTUNATE THE TIMING CHANGE TENSIONERS ARE MADE OF PLASTIC WHICH THE WEAR OUT AT ABOUT 50K MILES, CAUSING A START UP RATTLE AND EVENTUALLY ENGINE EXPLOSION FROM THE CHAIN COMING OF THE GUIDES AND DESTROYING THE ENTIRE ENGINE AND CAUSING A MASSIVE ACCIDENT AT HIGH SPEED. HUNDREDS OF PROBLEMS LIKE THIS ONE ARE REPORTED ONLINE FROM THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE EVEN YOUTUBE VIDEOS. NOT TO MENTION THAT EVERY TIME YOU BRING YOUR VEHICLE AND COMPLAINT TO AUDI THE CLAIM THAT THE RATTLE IS NORMAL; JUST TO FIND OUT THAT IS THE FIRST CLUE OF FUTURE ENGINE FAILURE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10622265
  7. Filed Mar 16, 2012Failure Dec 15, 2011112,000 milesNappa, CAService brakes, Hydraulic, Steering

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 AUDI S4. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 25 MPH WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED AND BECAME STIFF AND HARD TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHO CONFIRMED THERE WAS A PUNCTURED HOSE CAUSING THE STEERING TO FAIL. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED ON A SEPARATE OCCASION THAT HE HEARD A SQUEALING NOISE AFTER THE BRAKES WERE DEPRESSED. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE BRAKES TO MALFUNCTION WHEN THEY WERE APPLIED. THE DEALER STATED THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 114,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10451955
  8. Filed Feb 2, 2012Failure Feb 1, 2012Berkeley, CAEngine

    2004 AUDI S4. CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE FAILED WHILE DRIVING, ENGINE, POWER BRAKES AND STEERING LOCKED UP *TGW THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER, THE VEHICLE HAD SUFFERED CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, WHICH WAS MOST LIKELY DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE TIMING CHAIN OR ADJUSTERS. THE CONSUMER WAS QUOTED A PRICE OF $24,000 FOR THE REPAIRS. THE CONSUMER HAS SINCE LEARNED IT WAS A RELATIVELY COMMON PROBLEM FOR HIS MODEL AND YEAR. THE SPECIFIC MECHANICAL FLAW SEEMED TO BE THAT THE TIMING CHAIN COORDINATED THE ACTION BETWEEN THE PISTONS AND THE VALVES. THE TIMING CHAIN WAS SUPPORTED BY SEVERAL PLASTIC GUIDES. THE GUIDES PUSHED AGAINST THE CHAIN BY THE ADJUSTERS. *JB

    NHTSA complaint 10446471
  9. Filed Jan 13, 2012Failure Dec 22, 201155,000 milesDanville, INPower train

    I OWN A 2004, AUDI, S4 WHICH I PURCHASED USED FROM MY BROTHER, WHO BOUGHT IT NEW. I BOUGHT THIS CAR FROM HIM WITH 45,000 MILES ON IT. AT 55,000 MILES THE CAR HAD CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. 5,000 MILES OVER THE WARRANTY PERIOD! THE MECHANIC THAT IS REPAIRING THE DAMAGE SAID IF ONE MORE COMPONENT WOULD HAVE BROKE IT COULD HAVE CAUSED ME TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASH. THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REMOVED FROM THE VEHICLE TO BE REPAIRED. I CONTACTED AUDI OF U.S.A. TO,1. ALERT THEM OF THIS PROBLEM AND POSSIBLE SAFETY ISSUE, 2. BECAUSE THE CAR IS ONLY 5,000 MILES OVER THE WARRANTY AND IT HAD SUCH MASSIVE FAILURE I BELIEVE IT ONLY REASONABLE TO ASK FOR SOME HELP IN THE COST OF REPAIRS. THE REPAIR COST ARE GOING TO BE BETWEEN 4,000 AND 5,000 DOLLARS. 3. I WORK IN QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR A COMPANY AND I REALLY WANTED TO SPEAK WITH THEIR QUALITY ASSURANCE AND ALERT THEM TO THIS BIG PROBLEM. IT IS CRUCIAL THEY (AUDI) UNDERSTAND THE PROBLEM. THE REPS AT AUDI OF U.S.A. THAT I SPOKE WITH WOULD NOT HELP (EXCEPT TO LISTEN, THEY ARE GOOD AT THAT), AND WERE NOT COOPERATING WITH ME IN THE PROCESS OF TRYING DESPERATELY TO ALERT THEIR QUALITY PEOPLE OF THIS FAILURE THAT OCCURRED TO MY CAR. I BELIEVE I WAS COMPLETELY IGNORED AND I NEED TO FIND OUT HOW I CAN EFFECTIVELY REPORT THIS. NOT ONLY TO AUDI BUT ALSO OTHER PEOPLE WHO OWN THE SAME VEHICLE. THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE MADE PUBLIC. THANK YOU. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10443757
  10. Filed Dec 21, 2010Failure Nov 20, 201040,000 milesAlexandria, VAStructure

    2004 AUDI S4 CONVERTIBLE - 40K - REAR WINDOW OF CONVERTIBLE TOP HAS SEPARATED FROM TOP - APPEARS TO BE GLUE, ATTACHMENT METHOD FAILURE. CALLED AUDI OF AMERICA REQUESTING ASSISTANCE, V. NICE - WANTED TO INITIATE CONVERSATION / INSPECTION 'AT DEALER LEVEL'. LOCAL DEALER LOOKS AT IT AND QUOTE $4350 TO REPLACE ENTIRE ROOF. DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN AUDI OF AMERICA AND DEALER APPARENTLY ENSURE WHERE 'LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION' TO ASSIST IS DISCUSSED. WE HAD PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED A NEW S4 AT THIS DEALER IN 2000 AND TRIED TO PURCHASE S4 CONVERTIBLE FROM THEM IN 2007. WE HAD OWNED 10 (TEN) VWS PRIOR. FURTHER, ASST SVC MGR AT AUDI OF TYSONS CORNER ADVISED THAT I SHOULD HAVE GARAGED MY VEHICLE, PROBLEM WOULD NOT BE FAILURE OF ADHERING PROPERTY, BUT CLEARLY NOT MAINTAINED PROPERLY BY ME. MY REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE WAS REFUSED BY THE DEALER BECAUSE OF 'DEALER LOYALTY'. AUDI OF AMERICA SAID THEY COULD NOT OFFER ANY HELP EITHER. I SEE ON THIS SITE THAT MANY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEMS WITH 03 CONVERTIBLE PRODUCTS AND PRIOR TO READING THOUGHT THAT THIS ISSUE IS SOMEWHAT IF NOT ENTIRELY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF AUDI - AFTER ALL - SHOULD WE ANTICIPATE REPLACING AN ENTIRE ROOF FOR ALMOST $5000 AT ONLY SIX YEARS ???? AS A HUMOROUS ENDNOTE - THE DEALER CALLED ME TODAY - WE HAD LOOKED AT CARS WHILE THERE - THEY WANT ME TO COME BY - TEST DRIVE AND BUY :-) *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10371992
  11. Filed Feb 8, 2010Failure Jan 30, 201053,000 milesFenton, MOUnknown or other

    IN JANUARY 2009 I ATTEMPTED TO CHANGE THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE ON MY 2004 AUDI S4. I USED THE CAR JACK THAT COMES WITH THE CAR. AFTER LIFTING THE CAR UP ON THE PROPER POSITION (AS EXPLAINED IN THE AUDI USERS MANUAL) THE CAR JACK BROKE APART UNDER THE WEIGHT OF THE CAR. THE GROUND IN MY GARAGE IS EVEN AND MADE OUT OF CONCRETE AND THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WAS IN P AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS FULLY APPLIED SO THAT MOVEMENT OF THE CAR WHILE LIFTED WAS IMPOSSIBLE. THE AUDI DEALER I COMPLAINED TO REPLACED THE CAR JACK AND FIXED THE DAMAGE ON THE RIGHT LOWER SIDE OF MY CAR WITHOUT ANY CHARGES. TWO WEEKS AGO I HAD A FLAT ON THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF MY CAR AGAIN COMING UP INTERSTATE I 55 FROM CAPE GIRARDEAU MO. WHEN USING THE NEW CAR JACK (SAME MODEL) THAT THE AUDI DEALER HAD GIVEN ME AFTER THE PRIOR INCIDENT. AND AS YOU PROBABLY GUESSED THE SAME HAPPENED AGAIN. THIS TIME I WAS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BUT THE CIRCUMSTANCES WERE NOT MUCH DIFFERENT. AFTER I STOPPED THE CAR, I SELECTED PARK ON THE AUTOMATIC TRANSACTION AND APPLIED THE EMERGENCY CAR BRAKE. AFTER LOOSENING UP THE BOLTS I PLACED THE CAR JACK AS EXPLAINED IN AUDIS USER MANUAL UNDER THE CAR ON THE FRONT RIGHT SIDE AND LIFTED THE CAR UP. THEN I ATTEMPTED TO TAKE OF THE TIRE WHEN THE JACK SUDDENLY GAVE IN AS DONE IN THE FIRST SITUATION EXPLAINED ABOVE. FORTUNATELY THE CAR DROPPED WITH THE ROTOR ONTO THE INSIDE OF THE RIM OF THE TIRE I WAS ABOUT TO PULL OF. I HAD TO CALL A FRIEND WHO WAS BRINGING ME A DIFFERENT CAR JACK SO I COULD PUT ON THE SPARE TIRE. LATER I FOUND OUT THAT THE RIGHT ROTOR WAS SLIGHTLY DAMAGED AFTER DROPPING ONTO THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE RIM. NOBODY WAS HURT BUT I TRULY BELIEVE THAT THIS CAR JACK IS DANGEROUS AS IT DOESNT SEEM TO BE MADE TO CARRY THE WEIGHT OF MY CAR. I WORKED FOR BMW AS A LICENSED CAR MECHANIC IN THE PAST AS WELL WAS A MAINTENANCE CREW CHIEF WORKING ON FIGHTER JETS WELL CAPABLE OF CHANGING A TIRE; IF THIS HAPPENS TO ME THEN I BELIEVE IT CAN HAPPEN ANYTIME TO ANYBODY USING THIS CAR JACK

    NHTSA complaint 10307525
  12. Filed Jan 3, 2010Failure Nov 25, 2009103,000 milesMazomanie, WIEngine

    ENGINE FAILURE GOING 45MPH DUE TO BROKEN VALVE SPRING. FAULTY PART DOCUMENTED IN 5/2005 USA TODAY BUT AUDI WILL NOT REPAIR. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10297853
  13. Filed Dec 9, 2009Failure Nov 18, 200894,000 milesMazomanie, WIEngine and engine cooling

    CAR ENGINE WAS MISFIRING - WAS INFORMED A FAULTY COIL PACK WAS CAUSING THE ISSUE. ONE WEEK LATER THE MISFIRES STARTED AGAIN. TWO MORE COIL PACKS WERE REPLACED. 2 WEEKS LATER ANOTHER MISFIRING EPISODE. CAR DIED AT INTERSECTION SO WAS TOWED IN FOR INSPECTION. CAMSHAFT ADJUSTER/CAM GUIDES HAD FAILED. PARTS WERE REPLACED FOR 5K AND THEN 2 WEEKS LATER CYLINDER 3 FAILED WHEN VALVE AND PISTON INTERACTED - CAR DIED AGAIN ON THE HIGHWAY. CAR ENGINE IS GOING TO NEED TOTAL ENGINE REPLACEMENT. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10295044
  14. Filed Dec 7, 2009Failure Nov 29, 200970,000 milesEllicott City, MDEngine

    SEE THE NHTSA ODI COMPLAINTS: 10267048, 10263937, 10262201, 10261864, 10261281, AND 10294798. MY SECOND EXPERIENCE WITH THE CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE OF THE "CAM CHAIN TENSIONER" COMPONENTS WAS IN NOV OF 2009 ON THE BANK 1 CAM. FAULT CODE "SET POINT NOT REACHED (OVER-RETARDED)." WITH MISFIRES TO ALL CYLINDERS ON BANK 1 - LESS THAN ONE YEAR FROM THE SAME FAILURE ON BANK 2 (SEE NHTSA ODI COMPLAINT #10294798). THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. AS I MENTIONED BEFORE, ALTHOUGH THE S4 IS A LOW VOLUME CAR THE 4.2L ENGINE IS USED IN MANY OF THEIR PRODUCTS; AND IF THIS COMPLAINT VENUE ANY INDICATION THE ENGINE APPEARS TO SUFFER A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF EXPENSIVE AND DANGEROUS FAILURES. THE COST TO DROP THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION IN ORDER TO MAKE THE REPAIR WAS ANOTHER ~$4,500. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10294801
  15. Filed Dec 7, 2009Failure Dec 15, 200854,000 milesEllicott City, MDEngine

    SEE THE NHTSA ODI COMPLAINTS: 10267048, 10263937, 10262201, 10261864, AND 10261281 MY FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH THE CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE OF THE "CAM CHAIN TENSIONER" COMPONENTS WAS IN DEC OF 2008 ON THE BANK 2 CAM. FAULT CODE "SET POINT NOT REACHED (OVER-RETARDED)." WITH MISFIRES TO ALL CYLINDERS ON BANK 2 - ALL BUT RENDERING THE VEHICLE UNABLE TO DRIVE. THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY 54,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THOUGH OUT OF WARRANTY I CONTACTED AUDI TO NO AVAIL. I AM SORELY DISAPPOINTED IN AUDI FOR ENGINEERING SUCH SHODDY DESIGN, AND NOT STANDING BY THEIR PRODUCT. IN FACT CRISWELL AUDI CHARGED $300 FOR AN ECU UPDATE THAT DID NOTHING. ALTHOUGH THE S4 IS A LOW VOLUME CAR THE 4.2L ENGINE IS USED IN MANY OF THEIR PRODUCTS; AND IF THIS COMPLAINT VENUE ANY INDICATION IT APPEARS TO SUFFER A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF EXPENSIVE AND DANGEROUS FAILURES. THE COST TO DROP THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION IN ORDER TO MAKE THE REPAIR WAS ~$4,500. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10294798
  16. Filed Jul 26, 2009Failure Jun 16, 200956,000 milesMississauga, 00Visibility

    WHILE IN RAIN ALL WINDOWS FOGGING UP FROM INSIDE, UNABLE TO DEFOG, THE A/C WILL NOT TURN ON, CHECKED FOR LEAKS - NO LEAKS OBSERVED, SPORADICALLY THE A/C TURNS ON AND OFF, VERY COMMON PROBLEM IN CARS FROM THIS YEAR, MAY CAUSE DAMAGE AND INJURY. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10278370
  17. Filed Jul 26, 2009Failure May 20, 200953,000 milesMississauga, 00Visibility

    2004 S4 WIPERS STOP WORKING (STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF WINDSHIELD) IN RAIN, MOTOR WORKS SEEMS AS SOMETHING SIZED, IN SOME SITUATIONS MAY CAUSE BIG DAMAGE AND INJURY. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10278368
  18. Filed May 31, 2009Failure Dec 2, 200860,000 milesNewmarket, 00Manual transmission

    I HAVE A 2004 S4 WHICH CRUNCHES WHEN SHIFTING INTO 2ND AND 3RD GEAR. AUDI REPLACED THE SYNCHROS BUT THE PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS. I HAVE RETURNED TO THE DEALERSHIP NUMEROUS TIMES BUT THEY KEEP TELLING ME ITS NORMAL. THE CRUNCHES OCCURS EVERYTIME I DRIVE IT AND ALSO MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO GET INTO GEAR. THE VEHICLES RPMS WILL SOMETIMES STICK, KEEPING THE VEHICLE MOVING WHEN NOT UNDER ACCELERATION.

    NHTSA complaint 10272456
  19. Filed Apr 28, 2009Failure Apr 22, 200944,000 milesDayton, OHEngine

    AT 44,000 MILES MY CAR HAS CATASTROPHIC FAILURE DUE TO DEFECTIVE PARTS. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS I STATED ABOVE BECAUSE MANY PEOPLE EXPERIENCE THE ENGINE REVVING UP. THE TRANSMISSION CAN ALSO BE A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE IT TYPICALLY HAPPENS UNDER HARD BRAKING WHICH ALL OF YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE IN GEAR YOU SLOW DOWN BETTER IF ALL OF A SUDDEN YOU POP OUT OF GEAR YOU CAR DOES NOT HAVE AS MUCH HOLDING YOU BACK. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10267048
  20. Filed Apr 24, 2009Failure Mar 12, 200932,145 milesClearwater, FLSeat belts

    REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE HAS INTERIOR DEFECTS AFTER 33,000 MILES. CAR IS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY DUE TO YEAR OF VEHICLE. THE FEMALE RECEPTOR OF THE BUCKLE HAS SOME OF THE INNER MECHANISM HANGING OUTSIDE OF THE LIP OF THE BUCKLE, MUCH DIFFERENT THAN THE OTHER BUCKLE NEXT TO IT WHICH IS IN NORMAL WORKING ORDER. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10266569
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

121 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • 44134620103345 Dec 9, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Tightening wheel bolts
  • 44145520103346 Oct 21, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Tightening wheel bolts
  • 3712672028053 Oct 3, 2012 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TCM software update for downshift concerns
  • 1712322018550 Aug 30, 2012 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Oil consumption measurement - Repair Authorization (CA)
  • Update91i8 May 13, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Google Maps Street View (NVLW))
  • AUD4927ENG Jul 10, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Due to new Minnesota state regulations regarding biofuels, biodiesel blends of B5 or less may not be available in the State of Minnesota.
  • Maintenance Jan 14, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    2004 Scheduled Maintenance Intervals
  • A0023742052680_4 Oct 4, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information on the additional reporting requirements for safety related inquiries.
  • Edition45 Jul 22, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Audi Elsa Newsletter
  • Edition42 Jul 1, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Audi Elsa Newsletter
  • Edition53 Sep 16, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Audi Elsa Newsletter
  • Edition102 Sep 8, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Audi Elsa Newsletter
  • Edition106 Oct 6, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Audi Elsa Newsletter
  • Edition96 Jul 28, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Technical bulletins and updates
  • Edition79 Mar 31, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Technical bulletins and updates
  • Edition92 Jun 30, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Idenifying and mixing factory fill engine coolants
  • Edition89 Jun 9, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    ElsaPro Software update and technical bulletins
  • 01130920147538 Jun 21, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The use of contaminated gasoline or gasoline with a low content of deposit control additives may result in one or more conditions.
  • 00147020392061 Dec 10, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    High quality media files (video and sound) are now integrated into technical service bulletins on a case-by-case basis. Media files can now be viewed on any smartphone or tablet.
  • 001465201173210 Jul 15, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) details the general process for carrying out a Software Version Management (SVM) software update for any TSB or Update.
  • 37143120130025 Jun 3, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    ATF pan leaks
  • 37143020036586 May 28, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicle lacks power or will not move after stop due to simultaneous depressing of the brake and accelerator pedals
  • 01130920147538 Jun 21, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The use of contaminated gasoline or gasoline with a low content of deposit control additives may result in one or more conditions.
  • 00147020392061 Dec 10, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    High quality media files (video and sound) are now integrated into technical service bulletins on a case-by-case basis. Media files can now be viewed on any smartphone or tablet.
  • 01130920147538 Jun 21, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The use of contaminated gasoline or gasoline with a low content of deposit control additives may result in one or more conditions.
  • 00147020392061 Dec 10, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    High quality media files (video and sound) are now integrated into technical service bulletins on a case-by-case basis. Media files can now be viewed on any smartphone or tablet.
  • 001465201173210 Jul 15, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) details the general process for carrying out a Software Version Management (SVM) software update for any TSB or Update.
  • 1335201004313 Jan 9, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Engine oils that meet Audi Oil Quality Standards.
  • 131020182884 Sep 5, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    If the vehicle?s engine experienced a serious mechanical problem, it is possible that small pieces of metal debris resulting from the mechanical problem may have become deposited in the intake manifold, air intake hoses, exhaust manifolds, exhaust down-pipe…
  • 2015 MY Schedule Jan 1, 2004 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Maintenance Card
  • 37 13 07 2033658 May 29, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicle lacks power or will not move after stop due to simultaneous depressing of the brake and accelerator pedals
  • 37 14 31 2013002 Jun 3, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    As the sump pan gasket settles, the torque of the bolts decreases and the seal may leak. Automatic transmission fluid is leaking at the sump pan gasket.
  • 37 14 30 2003658 May 28, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This condition may be caused when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are depressed simultaneously. Drivers who drive with their left foot resting on the brake pedal are prone to experience this condition. With the introduction of Electronic Power Co…
  • 37 13 07 2033658 May 29, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This condition may be caused when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are depressed simultaneously. Drivers who consciously or unconsciously drive with their left foot resting on the brake pedal are prone to experience this condition. With the introd…
  • A0021482021205_6 Jun 25, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin explains how to order replacement VIN plates, Safety Certification Labels, etc.
  • A0020362002047_1 Apr 16, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This information bulletin contains instructions for technicans on how to ensure their TAC call goes smoothly.
  • A9419182012749_1 Dec 6, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Exterior lights, moisture accumulation 2013-2021 A3 Cabriolet, 2016-2018 Sportback, 2004-2005 A4 Cabriolet, 2004-2008 S4 Cabriolet, 2008 RS4 Cabriolet, 2010-2021 A4 allroad, 2018-2021 A5 Sportback, 2010-2012, 2018-2021 RS5 Cabriolet, 2018-2021 S5 Sportback…
  • 20AUTIRECHAINS Dec 4, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    New document 2004-2020 A4 allroad, A6 allroad, A8L, R8 Spyder
  • A0019252011732_1 Sep 17, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    00 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions
  • A0019262052680_2 Sep 30, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains instructions for additional reporting requirements for safety related inquiries (airbag/seatbelts, accidents, fire and overheat damage.
  • SM 44-2017 EN Jun 28, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.
  • A1915612025303-5 Jul 7, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 19 number 14-50 dated June 20, 2014. Discontinuation and mixing of Audi-approved engine coolants. G11, G12, and G12+ coolants have been replaced by an improved version. G12++ coolant (for service available) has be…
  • A171782 2010043- May 10, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin contains all the the Audi Oil Quality Standards that should be used when doing an oil change.
  • ATE-17-05 Mar 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Due to increasing requests for high voltage personal protective equipment (HVE PPE) for dealer technicians working with high voltage vehicles (Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid, Electric Vehicle), the Volkswagen Tools and Equipment Team has identified two US based supp…
  • A441662 2010334- Oct 19, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This information TSB provides information regarding the correct way to torque adjust a wheel bolt.
  • A911743 2042097- Aug 21, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin contains resource information for when the traffic feature is inoperative in the MMI navigation.
  • A941791 2012749- Jul 31, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin contains technical information for when there is condensation visible on the inside of the headlight, taillight, fog light, side marker light, front turn signal, daytime running lights, and/or third brake light lens.
  • Accessories Oper Dec 4, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is an advance notice for Audi of America employees. This notice contains information for the accessories operations technical bulletin.
  • A001470 2039206- Dec 10, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    High quality media files (video and sound) are now integrated into technical service bulletins on a case-by-case basis. Media files can now be viewed on any smartphone or tablet. Audi of America has started to host its TSB videos outside of ElsaPro. Doing s…
  • A641436 2020552- Sep 23, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Windshield is streaked, has a snakeskin appearance, or its surface feels rough. Residue from industrial fallout as well as normal road dirt and grime may accumulate on windshield.
  • A441455 2010334- Oct 12, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 44 number 13-46 dated December 9, 2013. Wheel bolt requires torque adjustment.
  • A641329 2020552- Aug 14, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Windshield is streaked, has a snakeskin appearance, or its surface feels rough. Residue from industrial fallout as well as normal road dirt and grime may accumulate on windshield.
  • A911302 2018187- Aug 30, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 91 number 11-20 dated October 21, 2011. Customer may report that cracking, grinding, rattling, humming, whining, or similar interference is coming from one or more speakers. Parts of the speakers (such as the brac…
  • A461347 2034387- Jul 8, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Customer may report sporadically hearing the parking brake being actuated after the vehicle has been switched off. If the customer does not identify the sound as the sound of the parking brake being actuated, he or she may simply complain of hearing noises …
  • A001348 2002047- Apr 1, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 00 number 11-19 dated April 8, 2011. This TSB contains information on technician preparation when calling the Audi Technical Assistance Center
  • A191335 2025303- Mar 25, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 19 number 11-19 dated February 10, 2011. Discontinuation and mixing of Audi-approved engine coolants. G11, G12, and G12+ coolants have been replaced by an improved version. G12++ coolant (for service available) ha…
  • A961501 2019260- Sep 21, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 96 number 13-67 dated July 10, 2013. The customer may report that the handheld transmitter cannot be programmed to the garage door opener control module, J530. The customer?s door opener system may not be compatib…
  • A191562 2025303- Sep 8, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 19 number 15-61 dated July 7, 2015. Discontinuation and mixing of Audi-approved engine coolants. G11, G12, and G12+ coolants have been replaced by an improved version. G12++ coolant (for service available) has bee…
  • A911526 2042097- Dec 8, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The traffic feature in the MMI navigation is inoperative. If the vehicle is a model year 2016 A6 or A7, see TSB 2042013: 91 Audi connect online destination search, Google Earth navigation view, or INRIX online traffic is not available. There is a known serv…
  • A201559 2011703- Dec 10, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 20 number 13-29 dated November 15, 2013. The fuel tank has been removed from the vehicle and must be neutralized before shipment or disposal. When the fuel tank in a vehicle is replaced, the original tank must be …
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.