# Audi A4 2017–2024 Pre-Purchase Checklist | CarCaseFile

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> Printable pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2017–2024 Audi A4: the generation-specific checks that separate a good one from someone else's problem.

Case file · AUDI-A4-2017-2024 · Field document

# Audi A4 2017–2024 · 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.

[← Full case file](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/audi-a4-2017-2024/)

Check 01

Check the coolant reservoir level and look for pink/white crusty residue around the water pump/thermostat housing at the front of the engine. Slow seepage with no puddle is the classic EA888 Gen 3 failure.

Check 02

Ask by VIN (Audi dealer or audiusa.com/recall) whether the water pump/thermostat module was already replaced under the 8-yr/80k extended warranty, and whether open recalls (backup camera software on 2020–2022, seat-heater cable/passenger airbag on 2017–2020) are done.

Check 03

On the test drive, creep in stop-and-go traffic and reverse up a slight incline. Low-speed shudder or clunky engagement points to S tronic clutch or mechatronic trouble.

Check 04

Get proof of S tronic fluid services (roughly every 40,000 miles). No records on a 60k+ car = budget for the service immediately and negotiate.

Check 05

Listen at light throttle between roughly 1,500–3,000 rpm for a tinny metallic rattle, the known wastegate-linkage rattle. Usually cosmetic, but note it and check for boost codes.

Check 06

Check the oil level in the MMI and ask directly about top-offs between changes. Gen 3 engines are much better than older 2.0Ts, but some cars still use a noticeable amount.

Check 07

On 2020+ mild-hybrid cars, confirm start-stop works normally and no battery warnings appear in the MMI. Auxiliary-battery and battery-management faults are a known annoyance.

Check 08

On the allroad, confirm the rear-axle alignment follow-up recall was performed if the car had earlier recall work.

Walk-away signals

2017 (first model year, highest complaint count of the run; verify water pump/thermostat service and recall completion) · Any year with no S tronic fluid-service records

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