Case file · AUDI-A4-2009-2016 · Field document

Audi A4 2009–2016 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes — not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   Check the oil level and condition cold, and ask the seller how often they top off — early 2.0T cars burning a quart every 1,000–1,500 miles is the classic ring/PCV symptom.

2. Check 02

   Listen for a rattle on cold start-up, especially the first second or two — that's the timing-chain-tensioner tell. Ask for proof the updated tensioner was installed.

3. Check 03

   Pull service records and look for the oil-consumption repair (PCV breather and/or piston rings) on 2009–2012 cars; a documented fix is a green flag, not a red one.

4. Check 04

   Confirm drivetrain: prefer quattro with the conventional automatic over a FWD Multitronic CVT, which is the costliest transmission to fix.

5. Check 05

   Watch for coolant loss, a sweet smell, or low-coolant warnings — the plastic water pump and thermostat housing are known leak points.

6. Check 06

   Expect some rough idle / hesitation from direct-injection carbon buildup on higher-mileage cars; factor a walnut-blast cleaning into your budget.

7. Check 07

   Scan for stored codes before buying — high-pressure fuel pump, ignition coils, and PCV faults are common and a clean scan tells you a lot.

8. Check 08

   Check that all electronics work (MMI, windows, sensors); electrical niggles are common and annoying on these.