1991 Audi 100 Quattro

Introduction:

The 1991 Audi 100 Quattro was a luxury sedan available with a choice of engines and transmissions:

• Engine:
  • 2.0L inline-4, 113 hp, 127 lb-ft of torque
  • 2.3L inline-5, 130 hp, 147 lb-ft of torque
  • 2.8L V6, 170 hp, 185 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission:
  • 5-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic
  • 5-speed automatic (quattro only)

Owners generally praised the Audi 100 Quattro’s refined driving experience, Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and comfortable interior. However, it was criticized for its cramped rear seats, high fuel consumption, and expensive parts.

Engine:

2.0L inline-4:

• Oil leaks: Description/Symptoms: Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets may develop leaks, causing smoke under the hood or oil drips on the ground. Solution: Replace faulty gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Timing belt failure: Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can fail prematurely, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals (typically every 60,000 miles). Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
• Intake manifold gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing vacuum leaks, rough idle, and decreased performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket and clean or replace any affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Coolant leaks: Description/Symptoms: Radiator hoses, water pump, or heater core may develop leaks, causing overheating or fluid loss. Solution: Replace faulty parts and ensure the cooling system is properly maintained. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the affected part ($100 - $600+)

2.3L inline-5:

• Ignition coil failure: Description/Symptoms: Ignition coils may fail, resulting in misfires, rough running, and reduced power. Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

2.8L V6:

• Head gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Head gaskets may fail, causing oil leaks, coolant leaks, or a blown head gasket. Solution: Replace the head gaskets and any affected components (head bolts, head resurfaced). Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
• Intake manifold crack: Description/Symptoms: Intake manifolds may develop cracks, causing vacuum leaks, rough idle, and decreased performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+

• Transmission: 5-speed manual:

• Synchro issues: Description/Symptoms: Synchronizers may wear out, making it difficult or impossible to shift into certain gears. Solution: Replace faulty synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Clutch failure: Description/Symptoms: Clutch disc or pressure plate may fail, resulting in difficulty engaging or disengaging the clutch. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+

4-speed automatic:

• Transmission slipping: Description/Symptoms: Transmission may slip or hesitate while shifting gears, especially under load. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+

5-speed automatic:

• Solenoid issues: Description/Symptoms: Transmission solenoids may fail, causing erratic shifting or inability to shift gears. Solution: Replace faulty solenoids. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Suspension:

• Strut mount failure: Description/Symptoms: Strut mounts may fail, causing clunking noises, reduced handling, and accelerated tire wear. Solution: Replace faulty strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per axle
• Control arm bushings: Description/Symptoms: Control arm bushings may wear out, leading to excessive play in the suspension, reduced handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace worn bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side

Electrical:

• Electrical gremlins: Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues may occur, such as faulty sensors, flickering lights, or inoperative components. Solution: Troubleshoot and repair or replace affected electrical components. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the issue

Exterior:

• Rust: Description/Symptoms: Body panels, especially around wheel arches and undercarriage, may develop rust over time. Solution: Repair or replace affected panels, and perform regular rust prevention maintenance. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the extent of rust

Interior:

• Dashboard cracks: Description/Symptoms: Dashboard may develop cracks or warping over time, especially due to sun exposure. Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Headliner sagging: Description/Symptoms: Headliner may sag or detach from the roof, especially in older vehicles. Solution: Replace or repair the headliner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Seat fabric wear: Description/Symptoms: Seat fabric may become worn or discolored, especially on heavily used seats. Solution: Repair or reupholster affected seats. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per seat

Summary:

The 1991 Audi 100 Quattro can be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. Owners should be prepared for potential repairs, especially as the vehicle ages. The cost and severity of these issues vary greatly, with some being minor inconveniences and others potentially major expenses.