2003 Audi A8 Reliability Report
NHTSA data as of Oct 15, 2026Published Oct 19, 2026
scored
Not enough data to score. Too few were made for a reliable rate.
- Owner complaints
- 3
- 1 is a recall notice
- Per 10,000 cars
- 21.2
- 944 made for the U.S.
- Vs the average car
- –
- Serious outcomes
- 1
- crash, fire, injury, stall or tow
- Recalls
- 1
- NHTSA crash rating
- Not rated
- no overall rating before 2011
Should You Buy the 2003 Audi A8?
We do not score the 2003 Audi A8. Too few were made for a reliable rate, so we show the facts only.
It has 1 recall.
Before you buy, check that the recalls were done and get an independent inspection. The full checklist is at the end of this page.
Pros
- No do-not-drive or park-outside recalls
Cons
None stand out.
What Owners Report
We read all 3 complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2003 Audi A8, one by one, and grouped them by the problem they describe. The most reported problems come first. A complaint that describes more than one problem is counted under each, so the counts add up to more than 3.
No problem shows up in more than one of the complaints we read.
Reported Once (4)
Show the 4 problems reported once
- Ball joints and control arms failure
- Coil spring: parts breaking or coming apart
- CV axles failure
- Transmission failure
How the 2003 Audi A8 Compares With Other Years
The other A8 years of the 1st generation (D2), 2000 to 2003, and the years just before and after it.
| Year | Rating | Score | Vs average | Per 10k cars | Recalls | Most reported problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Good | 74 | 0.82× | 26.1 | 1 | Unintended acceleration (cause not stated) |
| 2003 This year | Not scored | – | – | 21.2 | 1 | – |
| 2002 | Not scored | – | – | 9.9 | 1 | – |
| 2001 | Not scored | – | – | 20.0 | 2 | – |
| 2000 | Not scored | – | – | 12.9 | 2 | – |
2003 Audi A8 Recalls
One recall covers the 2003 Audi A8. It was issued in August 2008: “Transmission Locking Cable.” A VIN check at NHTSA shows whether it is still open on a given car.
Transmission Locking Cable
The locking cable may move out of position over time. With the locking cable out of position, the shifter can be moved out of the "park" position even if the ignition key is not in the ignition lock. This could allow the vehicle to roll, causing a crash without warning.
NHTSA 08V397000Owner letter (PDF)Issued Aug 14, 2008.
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings
NHTSA gave the 2003 A8 no overall, frontal or side rating. It did rate each seat in those tests and lists the seat ratings under Rating Breakdown on its page. We show them the same way below. These tests are from before 2011, so the stars are not comparable with ratings for 2011 and newer models. See the 2003 A8 ratings on NHTSA.gov.
4-door with side airbags
Check Before You Buy
A checklist for the 2003 A8, from its recall.
Confirm the Recalls Were Done
Ask the seller for proof that each of these recalls was repaired.
- Transmission Locking Cable NHTSA 08V397000
Ask the Seller
- Ask for the service records, especially oil changes.
Before You Pay
- Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you choose.
- Decode the VIN to confirm the model year, engine and trim.
- Check the title for salvage, flood or rebuilt branding.
What to do next