1990 Audi 80 recalls
Air Bags · NHTSA 97V172000 · Oct 6, 1997
Problem: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Some air bag sensors do not comply with audi's durability standards over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Risk: In the event the sensor should malfunction, the air bag restraint system can inadvertently deploy. Deployment of the air bag restraint system without warning could cause a driver to lose vehicle control.
Fix: Dealers will replace the air bag sensor control module.
54,800 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Power Train · NHTSA 93V006000 · Jan 11, 1993
Problem: The differential oil of the transaxle is lost over time due to evaporation. Low oil levels cause premature bearing and gear wear and eventual failure of the differential.
Risk: In the event of failure, the vehicle's drive wheels couldlose power. In extreme circumstances, the front wheels lock, causing rapiddeceleration resulting in possible loss of vehicle control and an accident.
Fix: Drain and replace the differential gear oil with oil having higher performance characteristics.
152,000 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Steering · NHTSA 90V070000 · Apr 10, 1990
Problem: Improperly manufactured steering lock bolts could break if driver applies excessive force to a locked steering wheel in an attempt to disengage the steering lock.
Risk: Bolt breakage would cause steering wheel to remain locked even after the driver turns the ignition key and attempts to move the car; this total loss of steering control could result in an accident.
Fix: Replace complete steering lock assembly, including a modified lock bolt.
6,600 units potentially affected · Full recall details →
Latest owner complaints
Power Train · Aug 31, 2004 · 76,948 miles · NY
While driving at 55 MPH the front wheels locked without warning. The dealer stated that the transaxle seized. *ak *nm
Electrical System · Jan 23, 2003 · 95,000 miles · CA
There is an ignition problem. There is a screeching sound that other owners of later audi models have also complained about. Apparently there is a recall for the later models, but I am not aware of one for that. Http://www.bba-reman.com/auto-mine/audi/audia6_ignition_switch_problem.htm
Power Train · Jan 23, 2003 · 95,000 miles · CA
There is leakage in seal of the front axle shaft. I fear that if it continues then it could cause a big steering failure
Power Train · Jan 23, 2003 · 95,000 miles · CA
There is leakage in seal of the front axle shaft. I fear that if it continues then it could cause a big steering failure
Fuel System, Gasoline · May 3, 2000 · MD
Consumer noticed dripping of gas tank. Vehicle was taken to dealer who stated that leak caused by rust at top of fuel tank.*ak
Power Train · Oct 5, 1999 · MI
Bearings and seals malfunctioned causing leakage. Nlm
Power Train · Oct 5, 1999 · MI
Bearings and seals malfunctioned causing leakage. Nlm
Power Train · Jan 8, 1999 · WA
The differential failure was dur to "lack of oil in the chamber" the vehicle still had the original component and the record kept by the original owner indicate that no differential recall work was done on this vehicle. I contact audi of america's nation consumer office and they said there was no such recall on this vehicle
Air Bags · Jul 17, 1997 · NY · crash · 1 injured
The battery died, called aaa and had the battery recharged. Then turned the ignition on and the driver's side airbag deployed, and threw the consumer more than 5 feet away into a brick wall. *ak the air bag was deployed while jump starting the vehicle. As the result of air bag deploying, electrical components like alternator and battery were destroyed. *yh
Electrical System · Jul 17, 1997 · NY · crash · 1 injured
The battery died, called aaa and had the battery recharged. Then turned the ignition on and the driver's side airbag deployed, and threw the consumer more than 5 feet away into a brick wall. *ak the air bag was deployed while jump starting the vehicle. As the result of air bag deploying, electrical components like alternator and battery were destroyed. *yh
Power Train · Jan 6, 1997 · IL
Recall on differential done on vehicle previously. Is still having the same problem with the vehicle high grinding noise, car slows down seems like hitting brakes but didn't. Took car to dealer and they say the entire transaxle has to be replaced. *ak
Power Train · Mar 29, 1996 · GA
While driving 60mph, automatic transmission locked up, almost resulting in a accident. *ak
Frequently asked questions
Does the 1990 Audi 80 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls covering the 1990 Audi 80, the most recent one (97V172000) for air bags. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
What are the most common problems with the 1990 Audi 80?
Based on 9 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most reported areas are power train (8), electrical system (2), air bags (1).
Have there been crashes or injuries linked to the 1990 Audi 80?
Owners reported 1 crash, 0 fires, 2 injuries and 0 deaths in complaints to NHTSA. These are unverified owner reports, not findings of fault.
Is NHTSA investigating the 1990 Audi 80?
NHTSA has opened 2 defect investigations that include this vehicle, most recently EA94026: Inadver.air bag deployment.