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1991 Audi 90

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Introduction:

The 1991 Audi 90 was a mid-size sedan offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The 2.3L inline-5 engine produced 130 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.8L V6 engine produced 172 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. The Audi 90 was praised for its handling, performance, and spacious interior, but it was also criticized for its high fuel consumption and relatively high price.

Engine

2.3L Inline-5

  • Head gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket resulting in coolant and oil leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, and engine overheating Solution: Replacing the head gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500
  • Timing belt failure: Description/Symptoms: Snapped timing belt resulting in catastrophic engine damage Solution: Replacing the timing belt and any damaged components Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Description/Symptoms: Leaking intake manifold gasket causing vacuum leaks, rough idle, and decreased performance Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750

2.8L V6

  • Valve stem seal failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn valve stem seals resulting in excessive oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500
  • Crankshaft position sensor failure: Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor causing engine stalling or difficulty starting Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

  • Clutch wear: Description/Symptoms: Worn clutch causing slipping, shuddering, or difficulty changing gears Solution: Replacing the clutch Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000
  • Synchronizer failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn synchronizers causing grinding noises or difficulty shifting gears Solution: Overhauling or replacing the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500 +

4-Speed Automatic

  • Torque converter failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged torque converter causing slipping, shuddering, or overheating Solution: Replacing the torque converter Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500
  • Transmission control unit (TCU) failure: Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning TCU causing transmission shifting problems or erratic behavior Solution: Replacing the TCU Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000

Suspension

  • Strut/shock absorber failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn struts or shock absorbers resulting in poor ride quality, handling, and braking performance Solution: Replacing the struts or shock absorbers Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 per axle
  • Control arm bushing failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings causing noise, vibration, and misalignment Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side

Electrical

  • Battery failure: Description/Symptoms: Faulty battery causing difficulty starting the vehicle or electrical system failure Solution: Replacing the battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Alternator failure: Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning alternator causing insufficient charging of the battery Solution: Replacing the alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750
  • Wiring harness issues: Description/Symptoms: Damaged or corroded wiring harness causing electrical component failures or intermittent problems Solution: Replacing or repairing the wiring harness Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500

Exterior

  • Door handle failure: Description/Symptoms: Broken or malfunctioning door handle making it difficult to open or close the doors Solution: Replacing the door handle Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per door
  • Sunroof drain blockage: Description/Symptoms: Clogged sunroof drains causing water leakage into the interior Solution: Cleaning or replacing the sunroof drains Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Fuel filler door failure: Description/Symptoms: Broken or stuck fuel filler door making it difficult to refuel the vehicle Solution: Replacing the fuel filler door Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

  • Headliner sagging: Description/Symptoms: Loose or detached headliner causing a sagging appearance Solution: Reattaching or replacing the headliner Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Power window failure: Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning power window motors or switches causing difficulty operating the windows Solution: Replacing the power window motor or switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Dashboard cracking: Description/Symptoms: Cracked or faded dashboard causing an unsightly appearance Solution: Replacing the dashboard Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000

Summary:

The 1991 Audi 90 is a solid vehicle with a number of potential issues to watch out for. Engine problems, particularly with the head gasket and timing belt, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, such as torque converter failure or TCU failure, can also be expensive. Suspension and electrical problems are relatively common, but typically less severe and less expensive to fix. Interior issues are generally minor and inexpensive to address. Overall, the 1991 Audi 90 is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, but it’s important to be aware of its potential issues before purchasing one.

Audi, 90
Audi 90 1991
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