2017 Audi A4 Safety Report
2017 Audi A4: High crash test ratings, but significant owner complaints regarding engine, airbags, and coolant leaks.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Audi A4
Reliability Score
The 2017 Audi A4 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Audi A4
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Audi A4:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coolant Leak From Thermostat/Water Pump Housing Multiple owners report coolant leaks from the thermostat/water pump housing, leading to engine overheating and potential safety risks. Described as a 'rampant problem' by owners. |
High | Common | 26000-58000 miles |
| Passenger Airbag Sensor Malfunction The passenger airbag sensor frequently turns on or off without warning, or displays a 'Safety System Malfunction' message, directly related to NHTSA recall 21V874000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Auto Start/Stop System Failure Engine stalls upon restarting after auto start/stop activation, creating dangerous situations due to sudden loss of power. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Headlight Housing Stress Cracks Headlight housings develop stress cracks, obscuring light projection and reducing night visibility. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Transmission Shifting Issues Transmission fails to shift gears, requiring a complete stop and restart, posing a safety risk, especially at higher speeds. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Audi A4:
Frequent reports of coolant leaks, turbocharger failures, and auto start/stop system malfunctions leading to engine stalling.
Malfunctioning passenger airbag sensors, often related to recall 21V874000, with issues of the sensor turning on/off or displaying malfunction warnings.
Includes various issues such as sunroof explosions, rodent nests in engine, and general safety system malfunctions not tied to specific components.
Issues related to the passenger occupant detection system (PODS) and seatbelt warnings, often linked to the airbag recall.
Reports of transmission failure and inability to shift gears.
Loss of power steering at low mileage, posing a significant safety risk.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Audi A4
Is the 2017 Audi A4 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Audi A4 received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 81 owner complaints, 4 crashes, and 2 injuries, with recurring issues concerning engine coolant leaks and airbag sensor malfunctions, which are critical safety components.
What are common problems with the 2017 Audi A4?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Audi A4 include engine-related problems (15 complaints), particularly coolant leaks from the thermostat/water pump housing, and airbag system malfunctions (13 complaints), often related to the passenger airbag sensor and a specific recall (21V874000). Other issues include auto start/stop system failures and headlight housing cracks.
Has the 2017 Audi A4 been recalled?
Yes, the 2017 Audi A4 has one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V874000) concerning the 'SEATS' and 'AIR BAGS'. This recall addresses a potential issue where a disabled passenger airbag could increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Are there issues with the 2017 Audi A4's engine?
Yes, the 'ENGINE' component has the highest number of complaints (15). Common engine-related problems include coolant leaks from the thermostat/water pump housing, turbocharger failures at relatively low mileage (e.g., 58,000 miles), and malfunctions of the auto start/stop system leading to engine stalling.
What are the crash test ratings for the 2017 Audi A4?
The 2017 Audi A4 received an excellent 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars in frontal crash tests, and 5 stars in both side crash and rollover tests.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2017 Audi A4 boasts high crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of common issues like coolant leaks and airbag sensor malfunctions, and verify that the airbag recall (21V874000) has been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Audi A4
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Audi A4. The data includes 81 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Audi A4 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.