2003 Audi A8
Only 3 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 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 3
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2003
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2003: 3 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 0 |
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1997 | 10 |
| 1998 | 4 |
| 1999 | 9 |
| 2000 | 3 |
| 2001 | 6 |
| 2002 | 1 |
| 2003 | 3 |
| 2004 | 20 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2006 | 6 |
| 2007 | 4 |
| 2008 | 8 |
| 2009 | 5 |
| 2010 | 1 |
| 2011 | 15 |
| 2012 | 11 |
| 2013 | 50 |
| 2014 | 18 |
| 2015 | 32 |
| 2016 | 11 |
| 2017 | 8 |
| 2018 | 0 |
| 2019 | 14 |
| 2020 | 3 |
| 2021 | 5 |
| 2022 | 0 |
| 2023 | 0 |
| 2024 | 0 |
| 2025 | 0 |
| 2026 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Suspension
1 of 3 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
Rear drivers coil spring failed, broke in half causing suspension to fail and damage rim/tire. Serious condition if driving at highway speeds. No warning of the failure prior.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-01-23
Power train
1 of 3 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
The car has had problems with: cv joints, control arms and needed a new transmission. Now there is a recall on the transmission cable.
NHTSA ODI report, 2008-10-16
Exterior lighting
1 of 3 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
Please add my name to the list of drivers that are adamantly opposed to the new blue/purple headlights many of the new luxury cars are featuring. The light is piercing and a danger to night time traffic.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-06-16
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2008-09-12Power train08V397000 Volkswagen is recalling 13,900 my 1996-2003 Audi A8 vehicles equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The locking cable may move out of position over time. With the locking cable out of…
Remedy: Dealers will modify the automatic transmission locking cable by installing an adjusting piece that will secure the locking cable in place. The recall began on September 12, 2008. Owners may…
Buy-smart checklist
2003 Audi A8 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Suspension: 1 report on file for this year.
- Power train: 1 report on file for this year.
- Exterior lighting: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 08V397000 · Power train
FAQ
- Is the 2003 Audi A8 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 2003 Audi A8?
- The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2003 Audi A8 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.