Faults:

Had the entire front suspension rebuilt, under manufacturer warranty, at just under 4 years of age. Problem was, I was told, incorrect grease used in the assembly of the suspension links by the manufacturer. Fair play, they replaced everything for free and the car drove like new.

Other problem was frequent alarm activations. Audi unable to find or repair problem, or advise me how to disconnect the alarm. Finally, bought a manual, disconnected the alarm - the wiring is integrated into the central locking controls, and installed an aftermarket alarm.

Had to have the receiver coil for the immobiliser replaced, £180, as the car wouldn't start.

Most worryingly, at 60,000 I was advised to have a cambelt change, plus the follower. At 70,000 miles the new cambelt follower failed, fortunately I spotted it before the cambelt itself failed, but this could easily have wrecked the engine.

When standing in traffic, the engine ticks loudly, I guess a lazy cam follower. Hasn't caused a failure (yet) but affects my driving style, i.e. I avoid traffic jams like the plague. But I shouldn't have to really.

Audi have a reputation for reliability, that based on this car, is not entirely justified.

General Comments:

It's a pleasant car to drive, handles well, and looks great.

The interior is well made, and attractive, and is wearing well.

Minor other niggles are excessive noise, both tyre rumble and road noise.

Additionally, the performance is uninspiring to say the least. My previous 115 bhp Audi 80 felt a lot quicker. It does go, but you have to push it really hard.

Fuel economy is also not brilliant, around 29 mpg around town. I'd accept this if the performance was better.

Faults:

ABS sensor corroded after 2 years otherwise nothing.

General Comments:

A great car but why do Audi fit such poxy stereo systems? Sony seem to get better sound from a walkman than a car stereo.

Faults:

Electric windows kept opening. Two new catalytic converters broke (repaired under warranty). Immobiliser had to be replaced due to wire getting stretched by adjustable steering wheel. Two boot locks seized and had to have extra keys to open just the boot.

General Comments:

Although the above seems a lot I had the car for three years and did 107k miles. Very good car, superb engine which was just beginning to loosen up. Have just bought the 2.5 tdi 6 spd Audi A4. Have done 3k in it with no problems.

It is a stunner with 45 mpg to boot.