Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Audi A4
The 2009 Audi A4 has notable airbag recall issues. Ensure the airbag recalls have been addressed before purchase, as they involve potential life-threatening risks. Common complaints exist, so thorough checks are recommended for safety and satisfaction.
Known issues to inspect
Passenger airbag inflator defect
How to check: Verify recall repairs for passenger airbags with documentation.
Airbag control unit corrosion
How to check: Inspect airbag warning lights; check recall compliance.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or squealing
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Feel for smooth gear shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifts
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure rapid, smooth acceleration.
Red flag: Sluggish response or power loss
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for stable, straight stopping.
Red flag: Vibration or pulling to one side
- 06
Parking
What to check: Listen for noise in steering components.
Red flag: Grinding or squealing noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have the airbag recalls been completed?
- Are there any unresolved repairs needed?
- What regular maintenance has been performed?
- Have there been any accidents?
- Are there any electrical issues?
- Have any suspension components been replaced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of airbag recall repairs
- Maintenance records
- Title and registration documents
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/7/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2009 Audi A4.