1988 Audi 90
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 0 |
| 1987 | 0 |
| 1988 | 4 |
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 3 |
| 1991 | 3 |
| 1992 | 0 |
| 1993 | 16 |
| 1994 | 10 |
| 1995 | 18 |
| 1996 | 0 |
| 1997 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: visibility.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
HEATER CORE FAILED AS VEHICLE WA SENTERING GAS STATION, WINDSHIELD BECAME FOGGED UP AND DRIVER'S RIGHT FOOT WAS BURNED BY HOT COOLANT. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19960910
1 of 4 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
THE ANTI-THEFT LOCKING MECHANISM THAT ENGAGES WHEN THE VEHICLE IS SHUT OFF, SOMETIMES ENGAGES WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING STEERING TO MALFUNCTION.THE DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19991007
1 of 4 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED THE BRAKES LOSE PRESSURE AND GO TO THE FLOOR, RESULTING IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. THE DEALER HAS NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19971112
SAFETY TIMELINE
THE DIFFERENTIAL OIL OF THE TRANSAXLE IS LOST OVER TIME DUE TO EVAPORATION. LOW OIL LEVELS CAUSE PREMATURE BEARING AND GEAR WEAR AND EVENTUAL FAILURE OF THE DIFFERENTIAL.
Remedy: DRAIN AND REPLACE THE DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL WITH OIL HAVING HIGHER PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS.
Campaign 93V006000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1988 Audi 90 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 93V006000 (power train) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1988 Audi 90 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1988 Audi 90?
The most-reported component is visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac system:heater core, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Audi 90 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.