1990 Audi 90

Introduction: The 1990 Audi 90 was a compact luxury sedan available with a 2.0L inline-4 engine (90hp/115lb-ft) or a 2.3L inline-5 engine (130hp/152lb-ft). It came with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. While praised for its refined interior and handling, it was criticized for its lack of power and high maintenance costs.

Engine 2.0L Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Stem Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from exhaust, oil consumption
  • Solution: Replace valve stem seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine damage if belt snaps
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner every 60,000 miles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Inline-5

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, overheating
  • Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, hesitation
  • Solution: Clean or replace intake valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission 4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from seals or gaskets
  • Solution: Repair/replace leaking seals or gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, inability to engage certain gears
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, shuddering, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, difficulty engaging gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Linkage Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Repair or replace shift linkage components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, noise
  • Solution: Replace struts/shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 (per axle)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises, vibrations, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery discharging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine
  • Solution: Replace starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly
  • Solution: Inspect and repair faulty electrical components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights fail to adjust or retract
  • Solution: Replace headlight motor assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors with keyfob or manually
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Lights Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard lights flickering or not illuminating
  • Solution: Replace faulty light bulbs or repair wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Heating or air conditioning not functioning properly
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control module, actuators, or sensors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motors Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating properly
  • Solution: Replace window motors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: While the 1990 Audi 90 offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, it is plagued by a range of potential issues that can be expensive to repair. The most common problems include engine gasket failures, transmission fluid leaks, suspension component wear, and electrical malfunctions. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the age and mileage of the vehicle. However, owners should be prepared for potentially significant repair bills if they encounter any of the listed issues.