1996-2000 Audi A4 Degraded Braking in Wet Weather Investigation
NHTSA conducted an Engineering Analysis (EA00021) into 1996-2000 Audi A4 vehicles concerning reports of degraded braking performance when driving in wet weather. This investigation explored the potential safety risks and outcomes for owners.
S'applique également à
- Audi A4
- 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000
NHTSA's Findings So Far
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated Engineering Analysis EA00021 to examine complaints regarding the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC system in certain Audi A4 models. The primary concern was DEGRADED BRAKING IN WET WEATHER. This 1998 Audi A4 investigation aimed to determine if a safety defect trend existed.
Scope of the Investigation
This Engineering Analysis, identified as EA00021, focused on 1996-2000 Audi A4 vehicles. The investigation specifically looked into the braking system's performance under wet conditions. The scope included assessing the number of complaints related to this issue and any potential safety implications for drivers.
Status of the Investigation
NHTSA's Engineering Analysis EA00021 is now closed. This indicates that the agency has completed its review of the available data and complaints concerning the DEGRADED BRAKING IN WET WEATHER issue in the 1996-2000 Audi A4. The closure of an investigation typically means that NHTSA has made a determination regarding the need for further action, such as a recall.
What This Could Mean for Owners
For owners of a 1996-2000 Audi A4, the closure of the 1998 Audi A4 investigation (EA00021) means that NHTSA has concluded its formal inquiry into the degraded braking performance in wet weather. While the investigation is closed, owners who experience issues with their SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC system, particularly in wet conditions, should still consult with a qualified mechanic. It is always important to ensure your vehicle's braking system is in optimal working order for safety.
Source: NHTSA Investigation EA00021
What Audi A4 owners report
Counted from the records in our database across 31 model years.
- 3,022
- Owner complaints
- 33
- Recalls
- 3,248
- Service bulletins
- 115
- Crashes reported
- 51
- Fires reported
- 80
- Injuries reported
The 1998 model year
258 complaints, the 2nd most of 31 model years on file. Owners reported 6 crashes, 2 fires and 11 injuries for this year, which also has 6 recalls on file.
Complaints by model year
| 1998 | 258 | |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 190 | |
| 2002 | 181 | |
| 2003 | 210 | |
| 2004 | 189 | |
| 2005 | 219 | |
| 2006 | 298 | |
| 2007 | 219 | |
| 2008 | 191 | |
| 2009 | 144 |
Most-reported systems
- Air Bags — 577
- Electrical System — 474
- Exterior Lighting — 369
- Service Brakes — 360
- Hydraulic — 307
Latest recalls for the 1998 model year
- 22V471000 — Air Bags (Jul 2022)
- 06E060000 — Exterior Lighting (Jun 2006)
- 06E049000 — Exterior Lighting (May 2006)
Recent owner reports
Recall 69bt was not accomplished at McDaniels Audi of Charleston dealer. They indicated they had replaced airbag with 8D0898201A kit.
Read owner complaints →The contact owned a 1998 Audi A4. The contact stated that while driving at 35-40 MPH with his 12-year-old son sitting in the passenger seat, he crashed into another vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. There were no warning lights illuminated.
Complaints are owner reports filed with NHTSA. They are unverified, and counts depend on how many vehicles were sold, so they are not a failure rate.
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