Multiple community reports confirm premature timing chain wear and tensioner failure on the DKNA engine. At least one owner was quoted approximately $2,500 USD at 84,000 miles. Faulty tensioners cause chain slack, leading to rattling on cold start and risk of chain jump, which can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Ticking or rattling noise on cold start
Chain rattle that fades after warm-up
Side-to-side play visible on secondary chain
Check engine light related to cam timing
DIY: Expert
EGR System Issues / Coolant Leaks€400-1,200 · 80,000-160,000 kmHIGH
EGR cooler and associated coolant circuit components are flagged across Audi forums as a recurring problem. The coolant circuit control valve housing (thermoplastic) is prone to cracking and slow coolant loss, sometimes mistaken for head gasket failure. Carbon buildup in the EGR system can also cause rough running.
NHTSA complaints document multiple owners experiencing EPC (Electronic Power Control) warning lights illuminating during highway driving, accompanied by shaking and loss of power. Root cause is not definitively isolated in available data but points to engine management or throttle body issues.
EPC warning light on dashboard
Vehicle shaking at highway speeds
Sudden reduction in power
Intermittent nature makes diagnosis difficult
DIY: Intermediate
Steering Malfunction in Cold Conditions€300-1,000 · 0-80,000 kmHIGH
At least one NHTSA complaint from a Montana owner describes the electric power steering ceasing to function three times in very cold temperatures, preventing vehicle control. This is a serious safety concern for owners in cold climates.
Steering becomes very heavy or unresponsive in cold weather
Warning light on dashboard
Issue recurs after restart in cold conditions
DIY: Dealer Only
Electrical System Gremlins€150-800 · 60,000-130,000 kmMODERATE
NHTSA complaints reference combined electrical, engine, and braking anomalies suggesting intermittent electrical faults. MMI infotainment software issues and DAB radio dropouts are also noted on forums. These are low-level but persistent annoyances that can escalate.
One NHTSA complaint documents engine issues discovered at a 60,000-mile oil change on a well-maintained example. Forum posts also reference oil leaks at the valve cover and oil filter housing areas. Regular oil level checks are essential.
Oil level dropping between services
Oil smell from engine bay
Visible oil residue around valve cover or filter housing
Blue smoke on startup in severe cases
DIY: Intermediate
Advertisement
Buying Checklist
Cold-start the engine and listen carefully for any timing chain rattle or tick for at least 30 seconds before driving
Request full documented service history showing oil changes at no more than 10,000 km intervals with correct VW 504/507 spec oil
Perform a VCDS or OBD-II scan for all stored and pending fault codes, paying attention to cam timing, EPC, and EGR-related codes
Pressure-test the cooling system and inspect the EGR cooler area and coolant valve housing for cracks, residue, or slow coolant loss
Check the oil filler cap and dipstick for creamy or milky residue indicating coolant ingress, and inspect the valve cover area for oil seepage
Test the electric power steering through its full lock-to-lock range and, if possible, test in cold temperatures to check for stiffness or failure
Service Reality
Community oil interval10,000 km
Oil specificationVW 504 00 / 507 00 compliant 5W-30 fully synthetic (e.g. Castrol Edge 5W-30 LL or Mobil ESP 5W-30)
Est. ownership cost (2yr)€1,500–4,000 over 50,000 km depending on timing chain condition, including oil services, minor consumables, and potential EGR or electrical work
Real fuel consumptionNo data
Also Found In
Audi A5 B9 2.0 TFSIAudi Q5 FY 2.0 TFSI
Buying Advice
The Audi A4 B9 DKNA is a rewarding car when properly maintained, but the timing chain is a genuine financial risk that must be assessed before purchase — a pre-buy inspection from an Audi specialist is non-negotiable. Budget for a timing chain service if the car is above 80,000 km and history is unclear, as repair quotes of €2,000–3,000 are realistic. Avoid any example with incomplete service history, evidence of extended oil change intervals, or any cold-start rattle. If the chain is known-good and the car is well documented, it can be a solid premium daily driver — but go in with eyes open and a contingency fund ready.