2002 Audi A4 recalls and problems

The 2002 Audi A4 has 1 safety recall and 181 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Audi dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

181

Crashes / fires

13 / 6

Injuries / deaths

4 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2002 Audi A4 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2002 Audi A4 recalls

Recall 21V-470: Air Bags

Reported Jun 23, 2021 · 62,812 vehicles affected · Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

Problem: 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 air bag to deploy improperly in the event of a crash.

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.

Fix: 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.

2002 Audi A4 problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Electrical System	79
Engine and Engine Cooling	29
Exterior Lighting	17
Power Train	16
Visibility	11
Equipment	9
Air Bags	8
Tires	7
Seats	5
Suspension	5
Engine	5
Vehicle Speed Control	4

Most reported parts

Electrical System › Ignition — 50
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 13
Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 11
Air Bags › Frontal — 4
Electrical System › Wiring — 4
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer — 4
Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 3
Seats › Front Assembly › Power Adjust — 3

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 30,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2002 Audi A4 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · at 370,000 miles · reported Nov 25, 2020

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 · at 193,897 miles · reported Aug 26, 2020

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

Electrical System · at 106,000 miles · reported Apr 17, 2018

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 · at 90,000 miles · reported Mar 23, 2018

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.

Engine · at 89,000 miles · reported Mar 23, 2018

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.

Other Audi A4 years

2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 200320022001 2000

Compare all Audi A4 years · All Audi models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2002 Audi A4 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2002 Audi A4: 21V-470 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2002 Audi A4?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (79 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (29). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 30,000 miles.

Are Audi recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Audi dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.