A4q bugs

[Charles Elkan <elkan@cs.ucsd.edu>]

I wonder how many problems the average A4 has?  If we only
hear from owners with problems, we'll get a very skewed
impression.

My A4q now has 6000 miles of reasonably hard driving.
I have not experienced any of the problems reported by
other owners on this list.  I do have the following
concerns:

(1) Subdued but definite rattling near the driver.
The dealer fixed this with some sort of velcro inside
the steering column and now it is very rare.

(2) Hesitation that can be felt through the accelerator
pedal when pushing down immediately after changing into
4th gear.  This can be felt occasionally in 3rd and 5th gear.
It seems to be decreasing very gently as the car acquires
more mileage.

(3) High gas consumption.  My average is under 17mpg
on trips of typical length 6 miles, mostly freeway with the
engine fully warmed up.

(4) Far too much brake dust and fast tire wear on the front 
wheels.  Surely a quattro should wear its tires more evenly?

(5) Graying of the fabric on the front armrest and the doors.
What is the best way to clean this, and to care for the leather
seats?

Overall, it's a great car.  Audi quality and design are now
better than Honda, Acura, and Toyota's.

Charles