The 1996 Audi A4 has 6 recalls, the most serious being a cracked ignition switch housing that can leave the key stuck between start and run, cutting power to the windshield wipers and headlights while driving. The remaining recall covers the horn, which can work only intermittently due to a weak electrical ground connection, meaning a driver may not be able to sound a warning when needed.
At a glance
What can fail
The ignition switch's spring anchor point may crack during manufacturing, weakening the spring force needed to return the key to the running position after starting the engine.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the ignition switch with a new one that has a reinforced anchor point, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The ignition switch return spring anchor point can crack, reducing spring force. This prevents the key from fully returning to the running position after starting, making windshield wipers and headlights stop working.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the ignition switch with an updated version.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The plastic housing around the ignition switch can crack at the spring attachment point. When it cracks, the return spring weakens, preventing your key from fully returning to the running position after starting. This leaves electrical accessories like wipers and headlights not working.
What the fix does
The ignition switch will be replaced with a modified version that has a stronger housing design.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The plastic housing around the ignition switch can crack at the point where the return spring attaches. If this happens, the spring may not push the key back to the running position after you start the engine.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace your ignition switch with a new one.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The horn may work intermittently or not at all due to a weak ground connection, preventing you from sounding a warning.
What the fix does
A ground contact spring will be installed to improve the electrical connection and restore reliable horn operation.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The horn may work only sometimes because the electrical ground connection is weak or intermittent.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a ground contact spring to improve the electrical ground connection for the horn.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
