Rear drivers coil spring failed, broke in half causing suspension to fail and damage rim/tire. Serious condition if driving at highway speeds. No warning of the failure prior.
The worst 2003 Audi A8 problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Lights1
- Suspension1
- Transmission1
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Lights1
- Suspension1
- Transmission1
Recalls 1
Power train: automatic transmission
- What is wrong
- Volkswagen is recalling 13,900 my 1996-2003 audi a8 vehicles equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The locking cable may move out of position over time. With the locking cable out of position, the shifter can be moved out of the "park" position even if the ignition key is not in the ignition lock.
- Risk
- This could allow the vehicle to roll, causing a crash without warning.
- Remedy
- Dealers will modify the automatic transmission locking cable by installing an adjusting piece that will secure the locking cable in place. The recall began on september 12, 2008. Owners may contact audi at 1‑800‑822‑2834.
Recall number 08V397000 · Recall details
Technical service bulletins for the 2003 Audi A8 132
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- This bulletin provides information on the additional reporting requirements for safety related inquiries.
- This technical service bulletin provides instructions for correcting a clicking sound from the wheel...
- This informational bulletin explains how to order replacement VIN plates, Safety Certification Labels, etc.
- This information bulletin contains instructions for technicans on how to ensure their TAC call goes smoothly.
- 00 Software Version Management (SVM), operating instructions
- This communication is issued to inform dealers of updated shipping regulations related to lithium ion...
- This communication is issued to remind dealers of the repair validation process for repair group 19....
- This bulletin contains instructions for additional reporting requirements for safety related inquiries...
- This informational bulletin contains technical information for when there is condensation visible on the...
- This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the...
2003 Audi A8 fuel economy
Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.
| Engine | Drive | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.2L 8‑cyl | 4WD | 15 | 23 | 18 |
What 2003 Audi A8 owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
The car has had problems with: cv joints, control arms and needed a new transmission. Now there is a recall on the transmission cable.
Please add my name to the list of drivers that are adamantly opposed to the new blue/purple headlights many of the new luxury cars are featuring. The light is piercing and a danger to night time traffic. These new lights are even distracting during daylight. I believe that cars equipped with these blue/purple headlights should be recalled and the headlights replaced. They are a definite hazard to other vehicles.
Compare the 2003 Audi A8
Other model years
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Questions about the 2003 Audi A8
Is the 2003 Audi A8 reliable?
Owners have filed 3 complaints about the 2003 Audi A8, fewer than a typical A8 model year.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Audi A8?
Lights, with 1 complaint. Next is suspension (1).
How many recalls does the 2003 Audi A8 have?
1 recall, covering power train.
What gas mileage does the 2003 Audi A8 get?
Official estimates for the 2003 Audi A8 range from 18 mpg combined. The most efficient version (4.2L 8-cyl, 4WD) gets 15 city and 23 highway.
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