2002 Audi A4
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
These records cover every 2002 Audi A4. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2002 Audi A4. Newest first.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2000-2001 Audi TT Coupe, TT Roadster, 2000-2002 A4, and S4 vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators (NADI) that do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, possibly causing the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, the air bag may not properly protect the occupant, increasing the risk of serious injury or death.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the driver frontal airbag inflator with an alternative inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69CJ.
The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.
Owner complaints
181 complaints13 involved a crash6 involved a fire4 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine · Exterior lighting
2002 audi A4 with 370K burned a bit of oil which was fine cleaned the engine out with cleaners it smoked a bit which IS normal.. Headlights started flickering 'hids' so I parked it. 3 days later I go to take the car on a test drive and the drivers headlight lit on fire ! Not sure if it was a headlight issue or a wiring issue.. Insurance will not cover it.
- Air bags · Seat belts
I slid off a wet curvy down hill road and slammed into an embankment. Went unconscious and woke with a large laceration to back of head. Saw that the passenger airbags exploded but none for driver's side. Seatbelt on driver's side tighten so tight could strangled me if I was wearing it. Have video of malfunctioning seatbelt and airbag
- Unknown or other
When it rains water gets in the car on the driver side now my window dont come down are up
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact heard a ticking noise coming from the timing belt. Audi brooklyn (665 65TH st, brooklyn, ny 11220, (833) 448-2449) was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 150,000. The vin was unknown.
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system · Wheels
Takata recall; fuel pump went out while driving causing car to stop and almost lead to an accident. (Ca electric components do not always work, window IS a big one. wheels all had to be replaced within six months and the axel appears to cause wheel damage. constant leaks such as coolent.
- Engine
While driving on a city street, the wheel steering suddenly blocked and it was not possible to steer the vehicle to the left nor to the right. Managed to stop the vehicle on the street shoulder. diagnostic at the body shop: power steering belt broken and even missing. Need replacement.
- Engine
While driving on the city street, the engine overheated and smoke came out. Stopped vehicle on the side road to see what's happening. drove after engine has cooled off to the next body shop. Diagnostic: engine cooling IS leaking, water pump IS defect. Timing belt will be affected if not replaced as well.
- Suspension
I bought a car from a used car dealer in renton wa. After about a year went by I noticed that I haven't received the title. Called the dealer and they told me I have to contact dmv. Talked to a person in the renton office and twice to the covington office. They told me I have to pay a 39 dollar…
I bought a car from a used car dealer in renton wa. After about a year went by I noticed that I haven't received the title. Called the dealer and they told me I have to contact dmv. Talked to a person in the renton office and twice to the covington office. They told me I have to pay a 39 dollar charge to get a title. Decided to maybe trade the car in and found out the frame was bent. I already spent 1200 dollars for parts missing on the car. Now another part IS ad at another 1500 dollars to make the air work. Apparently the car had been crashed and picked back together just to off it. Complained a out parts missing and they agreed to give me 400 dollars for the first problem. Never did see the money. I would like to have a total refund of the difference from what they gave me for the car after the 25000 dollars they gave me for the truck load I traded in. *Tr
- Tires
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4 equipped with bridgestone potenza tires, size: 225/45r17. While parked, it was noticed that the front passenger side tire had tread separation. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the tire was replaced. The contact also stated that the front…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4 equipped with bridgestone potenza tires, size: 225/45r17. While parked, it was noticed that the front passenger side tire had tread separation. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the tire was replaced. The contact also stated that the front driver side tire was replaced previously for the same failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The tire and vehicle failure mileage was not available. The dot number and vin were not available.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Incident happened on the day shown above I was running errands car was working well through out the day it was when I went to pick my husband up from work I stopped at an intersection when traffic light turned green I stepped on the gas pedal and that's when it started chugging and choking and did…
Incident happened on the day shown above I was running errands car was working well through out the day it was when I went to pick my husband up from work I stopped at an intersection when traffic light turned green I stepped on the gas pedal and that's when it started chugging and choking and did not want to go more than 30mph and suddenly it just shut down we were able to pull over to the side of the road when we tried turning on the car again it felt heavy and sluggish failed to start. Left car over night locked and alarm on we always pump 91 chevron gasoline and keep up with 5K oil changes hired a indy mechanic and instantly notice the fuel pump was not activating please help. *tr
- Engine
I am writing regarding a sad story about my 2002 audi A4 quattro 3.0 sedan . while I realize that the car IS not new, and with 152,000 miles on the road; I am still disappointed with the series of events that has happened to me, not once, but twice now! about a week ago, as I turned the…
I am writing regarding a sad story about my 2002 audi A4 quattro 3.0 sedan . while I realize that the car IS not new, and with 152,000 miles on the road; I am still disappointed with the series of events that has happened to me, not once, but twice now! about a week ago, as I turned the engine on, I heard a loud knocking like something had been hit and fallen apart in the engine. At the same time, the check engine light came on (flashing). I took it to my trusted mechanic. At this point, I am thinking that the issue was with a coil ? But not really since they have been replaced and not that long ago, might I add! while the car was being inspected, the mechanic heard a noise coming from camshaft adjusters. Once they opened the case, they found screws lose that had literally fallen off and broken. the camshaft adjustment housing was also damaged, amongst other parts (i have pictures). How can this be possible? After all, the bolts are encased, and it IS not like anyone messed with them. The sad part IS that the same had happened on the other side a year ago. *tr
- Exterior lighting
Immediately after the first rainfall in my ownership with this vehicle, both headlights stopped working. Audi has not done anything to fix this problem. This IS not a convenience issue but a safety issue for driving at night. *tr
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 mph she heard a loud popping noise and smoke came from underneath the hood. The contact was unable to drive the vehicle and it was towed to a dealer. They dealer advised her that the differential in the…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 mph she heard a loud popping noise and smoke came from underneath the hood. The contact was unable to drive the vehicle and it was towed to a dealer. They dealer advised her that the differential in the transmission overheated and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified and offered to buy her vehicle for $500. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was approximately 105,000.
- Power train
Car jerks then shuts off especially when coming to a stop or after changing gears. It also jerks when on an inclined street, the car starts to roll back, jerks after acceleration, then cuts off completely. After it shuts off, it takes a while for it to turn back on and only to find the check engine and epc light on. It's come to the point where I'm too afraid to drive my own vehicle. *tr
- Exterior lighting
After driving for a few minutes the left dipped headlight message displays on the dash and the left (driver side) headlight will flicker on and off a few times and then go out completely. turning the headlights off and on a few times will get it to come on again but only for a short time. this IS…
After driving for a few minutes the left dipped headlight message displays on the dash and the left (driver side) headlight will flicker on and off a few times and then go out completely. turning the headlights off and on a few times will get it to come on again but only for a short time. this IS a safety issue as the lights are a required safety item on all vehicles and it IS a ticketable item. this needs to be a safety recall from audi as none of the dealers seem to know how to repair the item without having you spend thousands of dollars trying to swap out parts until you find something that might stop it. most blogs have said that the dealer can never find a solution to the problem after they have spent $2-3K and finally gave up and are driving the car without 1 or more headlights. *tr
- Exterior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact was driving 25 mph when the front driver side headlight illuminated on and off before failing completely. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was contacted but the vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 100,000 and the current mileage 143,000.
- Engine and engine cooling
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact stated that the vehicle would constantly overheat without proper warning. The contact replaced the radiator and thermostat, but to no avail. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who advised that the problem was within the engine…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact stated that the vehicle would constantly overheat without proper warning. The contact replaced the radiator and thermostat, but to no avail. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who advised that the problem was within the engine, but could not determine the specific cause of the failure. The vehicle was not inspected by the dealer or repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Power train › Automatic transmission
2002 audi A4 1.8T, transmission ctv, the car has 75,000 miles everything works in the car with some minor stuff, but the transmission start to jerk when stop in a red light, IS almost uncontrollable, it want to move the forward, so I have to press the brake hard so it doesn't move. It starts to get…
2002 audi A4 1.8T, transmission ctv, the car has 75,000 miles everything works in the car with some minor stuff, but the transmission start to jerk when stop in a red light, IS almost uncontrollable, it want to move the forward, so I have to press the brake hard so it doesn't move. It starts to get dangerous to drive in that kind of condition. This IS the second audi I own and that?s a shame that so good quality car has this kind of problem and the dealers and audi USA don?t do anything about it. You spend 30 thousand of dollars and you have to throw your car away because the fix cost more than what your car IS worth. *tr
- Electrical system
On december 3RD, 2010, I was driving south on i-405s heading from long beach, ca to san diego, ca. I was driving approximately 45 mph when my check engine light came on and I lost all acceleration in my car. I still had electrical power (ie, indicators still worked, my manual transmission worked…
On december 3RD, 2010, I was driving south on i-405s heading from long beach, ca to san diego, ca. I was driving approximately 45 mph when my check engine light came on and I lost all acceleration in my car. I still had electrical power (ie, indicators still worked, my manual transmission worked and interior dome lights worked). I pulled straight over to the side of the highway at which point I noticed that the hood of my car appeared to be melting and that smoke was rising out of the engine. I jumped out of the car and ran to the side of the road to call 911. Two gracious strangers attempted with two separate fire extinguishers to put out the fire but were unable to. The entire engine compartment was entirely consumed by flames within 2-3 minutes. By the time the fire department and emts arrived, the entire car was aflame and was no longer salvageable. It only took about 5 minutes for the entire car to go up in flames. All that remained once the fire was put out was the rear-hatchback door. Everything else in the car was completely and totally melted and burned. The state trooper who was at the scene of the incident said that the car was so badly burnt it would be extremely hard to determine what caused the fire. I have pictures of the car after the fire and would be happy to share them if needed. The fire was so fast, hot and quick that it was only 30 minutes from when my check engine light came on and I had to pull over, to the end of the entire ordeal. *tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. While driving approximately 70 mph, the vehicle downshifted to first gear and instantly came to a stop. The contact had no control of the vehicle. The contact coasted to the side of the road and the vehicle was taken to a local repair shop. The mechanic stated…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. While driving approximately 70 mph, the vehicle downshifted to first gear and instantly came to a stop. The contact had no control of the vehicle. The contact coasted to the side of the road and the vehicle was taken to a local repair shop. The mechanic stated that the transmission control module was defective. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact called the manufacturer who advised the contact to take the vehicle to the dealer. The current and failure mileages were approximately 97,000.
- Vehicle speed control
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the vehicle suddenly accelerated which caused the vehicle to go through an intersection. The contact engaged the brakes to stop and shut the vehicle off. The contact restarted the vehicle and the rpms increased…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 audi A4. The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the vehicle suddenly accelerated which caused the vehicle to go through an intersection. The contact engaged the brakes to stop and shut the vehicle off. The contact restarted the vehicle and the rpms increased rapidly so the contact had the vehicle towed to an authorized dealer. This failure was the second occurrence. The dealer performed a diagnostic test but could not find the cause for the failure. The dealer suggested that the floor mat had become caught on the accelerator pedal but the contact stated that it had not happened. The failure mileage was 56,600. updated 01/18/11 *bf updated 01/31/11
- Exterior lighting
No known events lead up to the failure. The message "left dipped headlight" appears and the left headlight stops working at the same time. This problem happens frequently in audi A4 of model year 2002-06. *Tr
- Exterior lighting
The headlights for the 2002-2005(6) audi A4 will flicker on and off and often turn off completely while driving this IS not caused by ann accident or improper care but rather faulty manufacturing. It IS very common with these vehicles. When this problem begins it will typically occur regularly…
The headlights for the 2002-2005(6) audi A4 will flicker on and off and often turn off completely while driving this IS not caused by ann accident or improper care but rather faulty manufacturing. It IS very common with these vehicles. When this problem begins it will typically occur regularly (every use of the vehicle). Replacing the bulbs does not correct this problem as it IS inherent in the igniter which audi charges approximately $600. *Tr
- Exterior lighting
2002 audi A4 with hid head lamps turn off intermittently while driving vehicle. get an error code "front right dipped headlight" or "left front dipped headlight" while lights go off completely. has been going on for years such that I had the bulbs replaced but did not fix problem. *Tr
- Exterior lighting
Passenger side headlight on 2002 audi A4 quattro keeps malfunctioning after multiple dealership maintenance. *Tr
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10251027Tightening wheel bolts
- 10250950Tightening wheel bolts
- 10250430Oil consumption measurement - Repair Authorization (CA)
- 10249085Google Maps Street View (NVLW))
- 10249054Due to new Minnesota state regulations regarding biofuels, biodiesel blends of B5 or less may not be available in the State of Minnesota.
- 10243930This bulletin provides information on the additional reporting requirements for safety related inquiries.
- 10243787Audi Elsa Newsletter
- 10243780Audi Elsa Newsletter
- 10241749Quick Reference Update Guide
- 10231144Technical bulletins and updates
- 10231130Idenifying and mixing factory fill engine coolants
- 10231128Technical bulletins and updates
- 10231127ElsaPro Software update and technical bulletins
- 10228314The use of contaminated gasoline or gasoline with a low content of deposit control additives may result in one or more conditions.
- 10228302High 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.
- 10228297This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) details the general process for carrying out a Software Version Management (SVM) software update for any TSB or Update.
- 10226530ATF pan leaks
- 10226529Vehicle lacks power or will not move after stop due to simultaneous depressing of the brake and accelerator pedals
- 10224993The use of contaminated gasoline or gasoline with a low content of deposit control additives may result in one or more conditions.
- 10224981High 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.
- 10224976This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) details the general process for carrying out a Software Version Management (SVM) software update for any TSB or Update.
- 10221966The use of contaminated gasoline or gasoline with a low content of deposit control additives may result in one or more conditions.
- 10221954High 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.
- 10221949This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) details the general process for carrying out a Software Version Management (SVM) software update for any TSB or Update.
- 10216682Engine oils that meet Audi Oil Quality Standards.
- 10216662Discontinuation and mixing of Audi-approved engine coolants.
- 10216656Discontinuation and mixing of Audi-approved engine coolants.
- 10216638If 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-pipes, turbocharger, supercharger, and/or intercooler. If these pieces are not removed prior to the installation and operation of the replacement engine, the pieces may be drawn into the combustion chamber, which can cause a knocking noise and subsequent serious engine damage.
- 10214458This special notice is to inform dealers to return the parts listed if it meets the criteria provided.
- 10212703Vehicle lacks power or will not move after stop due to simultaneous depressing of the brake and accelerator pedals
- 10210680As 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.
- 10210679This 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 Control (EPC) (no accelerator cable) to fuel injection systems, an engine RPM control feature has been incorporated into the engine electronic control system software. Customer states that the engine returns to idle speed of approximately 1,400 RPM although the accelerator is depressed, and/or the vehicle hesitates (lacks power on take-off).
- 10210650This 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 introduction of Electronic Power Control (EPC) (no accelerator cable) to fuel injection systems, an engine RPM control feature has been incorporated into the engine electronic control system software. As a result, application of the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time (brake pedal with left foot and accelerator pedal with right foot) results in the following: ? Brake pedal function (normal at all times) overrides any throttle application. ? Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) will not be stored. ? When the brake pedal is applied while the accelerator is depressed, engine RPMs will return to idle speeds of 1400 RPMs after approximately two seconds. ? When the accelerator is applied while the brake pedal is depressed, the vehicle accelerates slower than usual (reduced engine torque).
- 10198567This informational bulletin explains how to order replacement VIN plates, Safety Certification Labels, etc.
- 10184530This information bulletin contains instructions for technicans on how to ensure their TAC call goes smoothly.
- 1016628400 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions
- 10164518This communication is issued to inform dealers of updated shipping regulations related to lithium ion batteries.
- 10163501This communication is issued to remind dealers of the repair validation process for repair group 19. 2005-2019 A3, 1996-2019 A4, 2008-2019 A5, 1992-2019 A6, 2012-2019 A7, 1997-2019 A8, 2019 E-Tron, 2015-2019 Q3, 2010-2019 Q5, 2007-2019 Q7, 2019 Q8, 2000-2019 TT, 2008-2018 R8
- 10161273This bulletin contains instructions for additional reporting requirements for safety related inquiries (airbag/seatbelts, accidents, fire and overheat damage). 2008-2021A3, 2015-2021A3 Cabrio, 2005-2016 A3 Sportback, 1999-2021 A4, 2010-2021 A4 allroad, 1999-2012 A4 Avant, 2003-2009 A4 Cabrio, 2010-2021 A5 Cabrio, 2008-2021 A5 Coupe, 2018-2021 A5 Sportback, 1999-2021A6, 1999-2011A6 Avant, 2008-2020 A7, 1999-2021 A8, 2008-2019 e-tron, 2019-2021 e-tron quattro, 2015-2021 Q3, 2009-2021 Q5, 2007-2021 Q7, 2019 Q8, 2008-2020 R8 Coupe, 2011-2020 R8 Spyder, 2017-2019 RS3, 2007-2008 RS4, 2008 RS4 Cabrio, 2010-2021 RS5, 2010-2020 RS5 Cabrio, 2016-2018 RS6, 2016-2018 RS7, 2004-2012 S4, 2004-2009 S4 Cabrio, 2010-2021 S5 Cabrio, 2008-2021 S5 Coupe, 2018-2021 S5 Sportback, 2007-2021 S6, 2008-2020 S7, 2007-2009 S8, 2018-2021 SQ5, 2000-2021 TT Coupe, 2001-2021 TT Roadster, 2012 TT/RS Coupe
- 10155644This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.
Every Audi A4 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.