1998 Audi A8: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1998 Audi A8: 3 recalls, 4 owner complaints and up to 18 mpg combined.
Recalls
3 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Steering Vehicle recall #99V248000 · 1999 · 51,900 vehicles
What's wrong: The tie rods of the steering assembly are protected on each side by a seal to prevent moisture and dust particles from entering the swivel bearing mechanism. It is possible that some tie rod seals May not seal properly.
Why it matters: If moisture and/or dust particles enter the swivel bearing mechanism, the swivel bearing could wear over time diminishing the steering control of the vehicle.
The fix: Dealers will replace the tie rods.
Transmission & drivetrain Vehicle recall #08V397000 · 2008 · 13,900 vehicles
What's wrong: 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.
Why it matters: This could allow the vehicle to roll, causing a crash without warning.
The fix: 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.
Airbags Vehicle recall #22V471000 · 2022 · 28,624 vehicles
What's wrong: Volkswagen group of america, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 1998 Audi a8 and 1997-1998 Audi a4 vehicles equipped with non-azide driver air bag inflators (nadi) that do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (psan) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the nadi inflator May absorb moisture, causing the inflator to explode or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Why it matters: The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag May not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
The fix: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternative inflator of a different design, free of charge. Owner notification letters were sent September 21, 2021.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 1 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Visibility (wipers, glass) (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Equipment (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 1998 Audi A8 has 4 owner complaints, ranking #18 of 32 A8 model years for complaints (well below the 8 average). Neighboring years: 1997 (10 complaints, 2 recalls), 1999 (9 complaints, 4 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.7 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 15 | 24 | 18 | Premium |
| 4.2 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 15 | 23 | 18 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1998 Audi A8.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
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FAQ
Does the 1998 Audi A8 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 vehicle recalls for the 1998 Audi A8. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 1998 Audi A8 problems?
Owners have filed 4 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (2), visibility (wipers, glass) (1), equipment (1).
What gas mileage does the 1998 Audi A8 get?
EPA ratings run up to 18 mpg combined (3.7 L, Automatic 5-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1998 Audi A8 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.