Used Guide: 2017-2021 Audi A4 (B9)

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Over numerous generations and iterations, the Audi A4 has earned itself a reputation as a go-to sedan for luxury shoppers after efficient performance, advanced features and design, and the all-weather confidence of Quattro AWD.

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For this generation A4, the interior was likely the strongest expression of the machine’s move into next-generation territory, with new safety features, new driver assistance hardware, and a new sense of style that brought the A4’s looks in line with its bigger and pricier siblings.

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Used Guide: 2017-2021 Audi A4 (B9) Back to video

With excellent display graphics, ambient lighting and user interfaces, the B9-generation A4 targets a shopper who wants their luxury sedan to do double-duty as a high-tech lounge from which they can relax, socialize, and enjoy the open road.

Key competitors include the BMW 3-Series, Lexus IS, Volvo S60, Acura TLX, Infiniti Q50, and Mercedes C-Class.

Compared to the previous-generation car, the B9 Audi A4 was lighter and stiffer, to the benefit of efficiency, performance, and handling. 

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On past test-drives of this generation A4, I noted a powerful lighting system, a smooth and responsive automatic transmission, and a 2-litre turbo engine that performed well in all situations, but may leave some drivers wishing for more than 252 horsepower. 

A manual transmission was briefly made available, though subsequently cancelled because of a low take rate.  As of 2019, Audi does not sell manual-transmission cars in Canada.

On high-tech features and content, look for a Bang and Olufsen stereo system, a potent adaptive LED lighting system, navigation, a digital instrument cluster, a Drive Mode selector, and a full suite of advanced safety tech and assisted driving features, including Congestion Assist, which enables semi-autonomous driving in heavy traffic.

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With solid performance, reasonable mileage, and a driving experience designed to connect with all driving styles, a used B9 Audi A4 makes a great upgrade from an earlier unit, and a sensible second-hand luxury sedan buy for the shopper that doesn’t want to break the bank on up front pricing or running costs.

Below, let’s hook you up with some more information on the B9 Audi A4 as a used buy, including specs, reviews, news, and features. I’ll also share five tips to help you find the best used Audi A4 possible for your used car dollar.

Tip 1: Engine mounts

Some owners have reported engine mount failure in their A4’s, caused when the fluid filled engine mount(s) rupture and leak. Many have not.

In most reported cases, there was no change to the feel or sound of the vehicle, and ruptured engine mounts were detected by a technician on a routine inspection during servicing. If you’re handy under the hood, you may be able to spot the engine mounts, and if ruptured, a brown-colored fluid leak.

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A professional inspection can quickly reveal issues with engine mounts, and a multitude of other problems that may not be apparent to the average driver on a test-drive.

If the used A4 you’re considering has one or more ruptured engine mounts, it could cost you money and reduce enjoyment of your new A4. 

Tip 2: Performance modifications

Some owners have modified their Audi A4’s using non-factory parts and computer programming to boost the power and performance from the engine. Many have not.

Damage or wear to driveline, suspension and powertrain hardware caused by the use of non-factory parts is not covered by warranty. Dealers can detect the use of non-factory electronics, even if they’re removed before a warranty visit.

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Further, your A4’s remaining warranty doesn’t cover damage or wear caused by a failure to maintain the vehicle properly. 

For best results, the average shopper should confirm the A4 they’re considering has been consistently inspected and maintained, and that it hasn’t ever run non-factory parts of software. These steps can prevent unpleasant warranty-related surprises, and maximize the reliability and resale value of your new purchase.

Tip 3: Water pump/engine trouble

Numerous owners have reported water pump trouble from their B9 A4’s. Many have not. This is a commonly-discussed issue on the engine series used in the A4, and other VW and Audi models.

In many cases, a water pump in the B9 A4 will present a coolant leak as a sign that water pump replacement is required. In many cases reported by the owner’s community, this happens at low mileage and is fixed under warranty.

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Locate the water pump and check for signs of a visible fluid leak, nearby corrosion, or a flaky, powdery substance (dried coolant), on or near it. If you detect any signs of a current or past coolant leak, have the vehicle seen by a professional before you buy.

For maximum peace of mind, have an Audi technician perform a full inspection of the vehicle you’re considering, before you buy. If there’s a problem with the water pump, it’ll be revealed here– possibly saving you hundreds of dollars.

Remember that a failed water pump can end your trip in its tracks with no notice, and even destroy your engine. This is why it’s important to change a worn-out water pump before it fails.

Tip 4: Leather and body care

Some owners have noted premature wear to leather seating surfaces, especially on the driver’s seat and bolster. Many have not.

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On your test-drive, carefully check all leather seating surfaces for signs of damage, rips, tears, rubbing, or abrasion. The driver’s seat and outboard seat bolster are most suspect.

To protect the A4’s seating from wear for the long term, consider using the ‘Easy Entry’ function, which automatically reverses the seat on engine shut-down, making it easier for drivers to board and exit without contacting the outward seat bolster.

Owners say that seat wear can be minimized by taking care not to rub against the seat bolster as they board and exit, by using seat covers, and by regularly cleaning and protecting the leather seating surfaces, to help maximize lifespan and resale value.

On that note, consider having your used A4 treated with a quality anti-corrosion or oil-spray product by a professional on an annual basis– even despite Audi’s strong reputation for corrosion resistance. This relatively small investment can help your used A4 last longer, and may pay for itself with higher resale value down the line.

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Tip 5: Body and windshield care

This generation Audi A4 features numerous safety systems that rely on input from sensors and cameras mounted behind the vehicle’s body and windshield. Proceed with caution if the A4 you’re considering has any damage to either.

A damaged windshield can negatively affect the operation of various safety systems, and some owners report that replacing a windscreen also requires a potentially-pricey recalibration of the safety systems.

Damaged or poorly-repaired bumpers can also cause frustrating and pricey safety-system trouble in certain circumstances. 

Final Thought

These tips are designed to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test-drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Audi A4.