By Josh RosenbergWhile historically high new and used car prices have forced buyers to look for "older" vehicles that may have aged well as a way of saving money, the issues of reliability and dependability have become even more crucial.
In terms of the 2010 A4's reliability, it's been somewhat mixed. While many owners have reported positive experiences with their vehicles, there have been some concerns and complaints regarding specific issues. Consumer Reports, for instance, rated the 2010 Audi A4 as "average" in terms of reliability based on owner surveys and data.
While Audi has been known for its engineering and quality, it's also known for the complexity of its engines, transmission, and other components that can therefore be more prone to glitches.
On the other hand, owners who have taken good care of their vehicles, kept up with maintenance, and addressed any issues as they arose have reported their Audi A4s running reliably for many years and high mileage, and often over 200,000 miles.
So here, ...
- We'll list areas of possible mechanical problems that some owners have experienced that should be checked before buying one today.
- Next, we'll take a look at the overall pros and cons of buying a 2010 A4 all these years later.
Then we'll review its features as it was originally released in 2010.
- And finally, we'll suggest ways of buying one today at the lowest price.
But first, two very important suggestions ...
1. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Audi:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
2010 Audi A4 Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
Oil Consumption: Some owners reported issues with excessive oil consumption in certain engines. This could lead to the need for more frequent oil top-ups between regular maintenance intervals.
Timing Chain Tensioner: There were isolated cases of timing chain tensioner problems, which could potentially lead to timing chain issues or engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Transmission Issues: In a few instances, there were reports of transmission problems, such as jerky shifting or transmission failure. These issues were not widespread but were noted by some owners.
Electrical Gremlins: Like many modern vehicles with complex electronic systems, occasional electrical issues were reported, including problems with sensors, dashboard warning lights, or malfunctions in the infotainment system.
Suspension Components: Some drivers experienced premature wear on suspension components, leading to noises, clunks, or a less comfortable ride.
Turbocharger Concerns: In rare cases, turbocharger-related issues, such as failure or reduced performance, were reported. These issues were not prevalent but were noted in some instances.
It's important to note that not every A4 experienced these problems, and Audi, like other manufacturers, might have addressed some issues through recalls or service bulletins. Also, regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to maintaining the car's reliability.
2010 Audi A4 Pros
Cost Savings: Well, no surprise, there's a significant savings in upfront costs. That said, this has to be weighed against the increased risk of potentially higher maintenance and repair costs going forward.
Depreciation: The steepest depreciation for a vehicle often occurs within the first few years. By purchasing an older model, you avoid a significant portion of this depreciation hit.
Lower Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums for older cars are generally lower compared to insuring newer vehicles, saving additional funds over time.
Reliability Knowledge: Armed with information regarding common issues, you can anticipate and address potential problems more effectively.
Luxurious Interior: The A4 was known for its upscale, high-quality interior materials and design. Comfortable seats, refined finishes, and advanced technology contributed to a premium feel.
Strong Performance: It offered a range of powerful engines, providing impressive acceleration and responsive handling. Quattro all-wheel drive (available in some models) enhanced traction and stability.
Fuel Efficiency: The A4's engines were relatively efficient for their class, offering decent fuel economy, especially in its four-cylinder variants.
Safety Features: It was equipped with various safety features, including stability control, antilock brakes, multiple airbags, and advanced driver-assistance systems in some models.
Tech and Features: While not as advanced as the latest models, this A4 offers a range of technology features, such as an advanced infotainment system, navigation, and optional upgrades like a premium sound system.
2010 Audi A4 Cons
Maintenance and Repairs: Older cars might require more frequent maintenance and repairs. While Audis are known for quality, there might be some wear and tear issues to address, especially if maintenance hasn't been consistent.
Luxury Costs: Owning a luxury vehicle often comes with higher maintenance and repair costs compared to non-luxury brands.
Outdated Technology: While it still has modern features, the technology in a 2010 model might not be up to par with the latest advancements. It's infotainment systems, safety features, and connectivity options are less advanced.
Potential Unknowns: Depending on the vehicle's history and condition, there might be hidden issues that only become apparent after purchase, potentially leading to unexpected repair costs.
Limited Rear Space: The rear seating might have felt a bit cramped for taller passengers, with less headroom compared to some competitors.
Ride Quality: Some owners noted that the ride could be a bit firm, which might not suit everyone's preference, especially on rough roads.
Price: Compared to some rivals, the A4 could be seen as relatively expensive, especially when factoring in models with optional features or the higher trim levels.
Tech Interface Complexity: The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system, while advanced, could be complex for some users to navigate.
2010 Audi A4 Review
With its sleek looks and smooth handling, the 2010 Audi A4 is a compact luxury sedan with lots of appeal. Toss in its top safety ratings, high quality materials, solid construction, elegantly refined interior, large trunk, available all-wheel drive and impressive wagon version, and the A4 offers a hard-to-match mix of style and performance.
Changes for the 2010 model year include the previous convertible version being dropped in favor of the new A5 Cabriolet. Also dropped is the old V6 model, which couldn't outperform the turbocharged four-cylinder anyway, and is now represented by a new V6 supercharged Audi S4.
What remains unchanged is the A4's strength: its highly appealing sport sedan/wagon, with perhaps the nicest cabin in its class, to capably take on the likes of the BMW 328i and Mercedes-Benz C300.
Its slick design, precise and well-balanced handling, and top-notch interior certainly offer the type of total driving experience shoppers in this more upscale segment are looking for.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2010 Audi A4 is classified as a compact luxury sedan and was offered in two body styles: sedan and wagon (Avant). The base A4 trim wa for the sedan-only, the 2.0T FrontTrak (which indicates front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission - CVT). The other trim is the 2.0T Quattro, which is the all-wheel drive version offered on both the sedan and wagon.
The standard features are grouped into three available packages: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The base 2.0T FrontTrak is not available with the Prestige package, while the 2.0T Quattro is available with all three.
The standard features included with the Premium package include leather upholstery, power front seats with driver lumbar, cruise control, 17 inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, a sunroof, foglamps, an electronic parking brake, a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel, a split-folding rear seat, Audi's MMI system (dash-mounted) and a 10-speaker CD sound system with satellite radio, a subwoofer and an auxiliary audio jack.
The Premium Plus then adds heated front seats, Bluetooth phone connectivity, bi-xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, three-zone automatic climate control, LED daytime running lights and taillights, and an iPod jack.
The Prestige package then chips in with auto-dimming rear and side mirrors, 18 inch wheels, keyless ignition, keyless entry, navigation with real-time traffic and the third-generation MMI interface (new menus and center console-mounted with a joystick-type button on top the control knob), a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system (also optional with Premium Plus) with a 6-disc CD changer, and voice control for the stereo, navigation and Bluetooth.
In addition, Premium wagons add a power tailgate.
Also found on some models is an optional Sport package that includes firmer suspension tuning, high-performance tires and sport seats. The S line package for Prestige models is basically an enhanced Sport package.
Stand-alone options to be found include the navigation system and third-generation MMI for Premium and Premium Plus trims, a blind-spot monitor, a "Drive Select" system (Prestige only) that allows adjusting suspension/steering/transmission response, adaptive cruise control, rear-seat side airbags and several wood trim choices.
And lastly, a Bluetooth/HomeLink feature bundle is available on Premium trims.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the 2010 A4 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that's good for 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While front-wheel drive and a CVT are standard on the base 2.0T FrontTrak, the 2.0T Quattro (all-wheel drive) comes with either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 6-speed automatic with manual shift control.
In performance testing, the 2010 A4 2.0T Quattro sedan with automatic was timed from a standstill to 60 mph in a quite quick 6.5 seconds.
The EPA-estimated gas mileage for the A4 2.0T FrontTrak is a respectable 23 mpg city and 30 mpg on the highway. Fuel economy for the A4 2.0T Quattro doesn't drop much and comes in at a very similar 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway with the manual and 21 and 27, respectively, with the automatic.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all 2010 A4 models include antilock brakes (ABS), stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In addition, rear-seat-mounted side airbags are an available option.
"Side Assist", a blind-spot alert system, can be added for those A4s with navigation. And Audi's "Active Braking Guard", an element of adaptive cruise control, alerts the driver and readies the brakes for maximum stopping power when a collision is detected as imminent.
With its high emphasis on safety, the 2010 A4 aced all of its government crash tests, earning perfect five-out-of-five-star ratings in all driver and passenger protection categories for both frontal and side impacts.
Interior:
The 2010 A4's interior, was one of the best in its class, and possible "the" best. It's attractively designed with high grade materials, refined, and user-friendly. The leather quality, for example, is much higher than the "leatherette" found in base BMW and Mercedes rivals. The seating, both front and rear, is comfortable and supportive.
The sedan's trunk space is a huge 16.9 cubic feet, large even when compared to standard family sedans. The cargo capacity for the wagon comes in only slightly higher with 17.3 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats. This can be increased to 51 cubic feet by folding down the rear seats.
While this isn't huge for a wagon due to the A4's rear-end styling, it's still very useful for those who value the wagon's refinement and performance but who still could use some hauling room.
Drive:
The 2010 Audi A4's handling is smooth, capable and confident ... and even more so with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Add on the Sport package and the performance gets positively dynamic. Bear in mind, however, that the Sport package's improvement in athleticism comes with the sacrifice of some ride comfort and smoothness. Families will likely be happier with the base suspension.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides class-competitive acceleration with good fuel economy, impressive given it's competing against some V6s. While most drivers will be pleased with its power, some may find it a little noisier than its top competitors.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In!
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free, it's quick and there's no contact by any third parties. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN#. They really focus in on the specific vehicle.