AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data

Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 1998 Audi Cabriolet

Overall rating NHTSA-grounded

Above average

Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $2,500–$4,000

The 1998 Audi Cabriolet has minimal recalls and very few owner complaints, suggesting strong reliability for its age.

Most-common failures

Part Typical mileage Cost range Frequency
fuel system100,000–150,000 miles$400–$800occasional
gasoline system100,000–150,000 miles$300–$600occasional

Scheduled maintenance to budget

Routine items every owner should plan for.

  • Oil change every 5,000 miles
  • Replace timing belt at 90,000 miles
  • Brake fluid change every 2 years
  • Inspect suspension annually
  • Transmission fluid change every 60,000 miles

Warning signs to watch for

Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.

  • Fuel smell in the cabin
  • Difficult engine starts
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Engine hesitation
  • Check engine light for fuel faults

Generated by gpt-4o on 8/19/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.