Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Audi A4
The 2021 Audi A4 is mostly reliable but has some notable issues, including problems with the back over prevention display, tires, rear seat belt retractors, and rear suspension. Ensure these are addressed to enjoy a smooth ownership experience.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Audi A4 has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 11 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V742000 Rearview Display Inoperative/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V034000 Rear Axle May Be Misaligned NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V606000 Seat Belt Locking Retractor Malfunction/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V295000 Rear Axle Lock Nuts May Break NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 3 complaints
- Unknown or Other 3 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 2 complaints
- Lane Departure 2 complaints
- Power Train 2 complaints
- Suspension 2 complaints
Of the 11 complaints on file, 3 report a crash; across all 11 complaints, owners report 1 injury (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Display function failure
How to check: Verify display functionality for video feed.
Rear axle alignment issue
How to check: Inspect rear tires for uneven wear.
Rear seat belt retractor fails
How to check: Test rear seat belts for proper retraction.
Trailing arm lock nut issue
How to check: Check for any unusual noises from the rear.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check dashboard for any warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on display.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud or irregular noises.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check acceleration for any lags.
Red flag: Noticeable delays when accelerating.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth gear transitions.
Red flag: Jerky or rough shifts.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Assess brake response and feel.
Red flag: Spongy or unresponsive brakes.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test electronic features like camera and sensors.
Red flag: Feature malfunctions or errors.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the display issue been fixed?
- Any suspension repairs or adjustments made?
- Rear seat belts retract correctly?
- Are there any outstanding recalls?
- Service history for electrical issues available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall clearance certificate
- Warranty information
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Audi A4 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 Audi A4? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.