2017 Audi A4 Buyer's Guide: Reliability, Trims & Fair Prices

The B9 A4: Audi's Tech-Forward Luxury Sedan

The 2017 Audi A4 marked the beginning of the B9 generation—a complete redesign that brought class-leading technology, refined driving dynamics, and improved reliability. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster was revolutionary for its time and remains impressive today. Eight years later, used B9 A4s offer genuine luxury at attainable prices.

We analyzed current market data to identify fair pricing and common issues. The 2017 A4 has proven more reliable than previous Audi generations, though German luxury maintenance costs remain a reality. Understanding what to look for and what to budget helps ensure a positive ownership experience.

Trim Level Analysis

Premium: Entry Point

The Premium trim includes leather upholstery, power seats, panoramic sunroof, and Audi's MMI infotainment system. It's a genuine luxury car at the lowest price. However, the Virtual Cockpit and navigation are optional—many Premium models lack these signature features.

Premium Plus: The Sweet Spot

Premium Plus adds Virtual Cockpit, navigation, blind spot monitoring, and improved audio. This trim hits the value sweet spot—most desirable features at reasonable pricing. Most used inventory sits at this trim level. Focus your search here unless budget requires Premium or demands Prestige features.

Prestige: Full Luxury

Prestige adds head-up display, 360-degree camera, Matrix LED headlights, and Bang & Olufsen audio. These features were cutting-edge in 2017 and remain impressive. The premium is substantial—only worthwhile if you specifically want these features. For most buyers, Premium Plus delivers 90% of the experience.

Current Market Pricing

Eight years of depreciation have brought the A4 into accessible territory. Most inventory clusters between $18,000-$26,000 for well-equipped quattro models. This represents 60-70% depreciation from original MSRP—typical for German luxury.

Value Factors

quattro vs. FWD: quattro commands $1,500-$2,500 premium. Worth it for capability and resale. FWD acceptable only for mild-climate city use.

Virtual Cockpit: Vehicles with the 12.3-inch digital cluster sell faster and command $500-$1,000 premium. It's the A4's signature feature.

Sport Package: Adds sport suspension, 19-inch wheels, and S line appearance. Adds $500-$1,000 to value. Enhances driving feel noticeably.

Reliability Analysis

The B9 A4 improved significantly over previous generations. The 2.0T engine is mature and well-proven across multiple VW/Audi platforms. The 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission is refined. However, issues exist and maintenance costs exceed mainstream vehicles.

Known Issues

Turbocharger Problems: Some 2.0T engines experience turbo failures or wastegate issues. Listen for unusual sounds under boost. Check for oil consumption and blue smoke. Turbo replacement runs $2,000-$3,500.

Water Pump Failures: The electric water pump can fail, causing overheating. Often covered under extended warranty. Replacement costs $800-$1,200. Check for any overheating history.

Infotainment Glitches: The MMI system occasionally freezes or responds slowly. Software updates address most issues. Test all functions during evaluation. Minor annoyance rather than reliability concern.

S tronic Shudder: Some dual-clutch transmissions exhibit low-speed shudder during parking maneuvers. Clutch adaptation or replacement addresses the issue. Test extensively in parking lot situations.

Pre-Purchase Inspection

• Service Records: Require complete dealer or specialist service history. Verify oil changes every 10,000 miles and all scheduled maintenance.
• Turbo Check: Listen for unusual sounds under acceleration. Check for oil leaks around turbo. Verify no boost issues or check engine lights.
• Transmission Test: Test in parking lot for shudder. Drive through all gears. S tronic should be smooth at all speeds.
• Coolant System: Check coolant level and condition. Look for water pump leaks. Verify no overheating history.
• Electronics: Test Virtual Cockpit, navigation, and all MMI functions. Verify Bluetooth connectivity and CarPlay function.
• quattro System: If equipped, test AWD engagement. No warning lights should illuminate related to drivetrain.

Ownership Costs

German luxury ownership requires appropriate budget:

Maintenance: $1,200-$1,800 annually at Audi specialist. Oil changes $100-$150. Brake service $400-$800 per axle. DSG service $300-$500 every 40,000 miles.

Insurance: $1,400-$2,200 annually depending on profile and coverage. Luxury vehicle rates apply.

Fuel: Premium required. At 28 MPG average and current prices, budget $2,200-$2,600 annually for 12,000 miles.

Tires: Performance tires required. $800-$1,200 per set every 30,000-40,000 miles.