2001 Audi A8: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2001 Audi A8: 2 recalls, 6 owner complaints and up to 18 mpg combined.

Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Fuel system Vehicle recall #01V259000 · 2001 · 600 vehicles
What's wrong: A "blind cover" at the filler neck of the fuel tank May not seal properly allowing fuel vapor to escape.
Why it matters: Should this happen, the fuel tank pressure will be reduced, which will activate the leak detection system and alert the driver of a system's fault indicated by an instrument panel light.
The fix: Dealers will replace the fuel filler neck/expansion tank assembly. Owner notification began March 21, 2002.
Transmission & drivetrain Vehicle recall #08V397000 · 2008 · 13,900 vehicles
What's wrong: 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.
Why it matters: This could allow the vehicle to roll, causing a crash without warning.
The fix: 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.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Speed control / throttle (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Transmission & drivetrain (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Engine & cooling (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Electrical (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2001 Audi A8 has 6 owner complaints, ranking #13 of 32 A8 model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 8). Complaints peaked in 2004 (2 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 3 years old, at a median of 86,000 miles. Neighboring years: 2000 (3 complaints, 2 recalls), 2002 (1 complaints, 1 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.2 L 8-cyl | Automatic (S5) | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 15 | 23 | 18 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2001 Audi A8.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
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FAQ
Does the 2001 Audi A8 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 2001 Audi A8. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2001 Audi A8 problems?
Owners have filed 6 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are speed control / throttle (2), transmission & drivetrain (2), engine & cooling (1).
What gas mileage does the 2001 Audi A8 get?
EPA ratings run up to 18 mpg combined (4.2 L, Automatic (S5)), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2001 Audi A8 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.