Used Audi A8 1994 - 2002 reliability review

It's a luxury car for those with no ego to stroke. Build quality is always a strong point

What should I look for in a used Audi A8?

Have the car checked over thoroughly, and pay particular attention to the brakes and the steering rack – these items are both prone to high wear. Listen out for transmission noise and keep an eye out for any electrical gremlins. Any dings could be costly, unless, of course, you are prepared to put up with an 'imperfect' luxury car.

There have been recalls on a number of Audi A8 specifications over the years, so it is important that you are satisfied that the problems have been fixed. Some 1999 A8s suffered premature ball joint wear and V6 1998 models had issues with throttles jamming open. The 2003 models needed their driver airbags replaced.

Pay particular attention to chrome-effect trims that are actually made from aluminium. If they are cleaned incorrectly, they turn a milky white.

Used cars available now

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Audi A8 2.8 FSI SE CVT 4dr

Audi A8

2.8 FSI SE CVT 4dr

£2,495

Audi A8 3.1 FSI SE CVT 4dr LWB

Audi A8

3.1 FSI SE CVT 4dr LWB

£5,795

Audi A8 3.0 TDI V6 SE Executive Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI V6 SE Executive Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£5,995

Audi A8 3.0 TDI V6 Executive SE Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI V6 Executive SE Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£6,200

Audi A8 3.0 TDI V6 SE Executive Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI V6 SE Executive Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£6,495

Audi A8 3.0 TDI SE quattro 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI SE quattro 4dr

£6,695

Audi A8 3.0 TDI V6 Executive SE Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI V6 Executive SE Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£6,995

Audi A8 3.0 TDI V6 SE Executive Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI V6 SE Executive Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£6,995

Audi A8 3.0 TDI V6 SE Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

Audi A8

3.0 TDI V6 SE Tiptronic quattro Euro 5 (s/s) 4dr

£7,999

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Name: Stuart Milne

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