Audi Recall 05V-096: Exterior lighting – headlights

Affected: 2003–2004 Audi A4, 2004 Audi S4. Filed with NHTSA on March 15, 2005, covering about 9,965 vehicles.

The problem

On certain passenger vehicles, there is a possibility of xenon headlamp coating degradation over time. The luminous transmittance of the headlamp May decrease over a period of time.

The risk

This condition could affect a driver's field of view, increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix

Dealers will replace the left and right xenon headlamp reflectors free of charge. The recall began on April 11, 2005. Owners May contact Audi at 1-800-822-2834.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign05V-096 (05V096000)
Manufacturer numberJH
ManufacturerVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
ComponentExterior lighting › Headlights
Report dateMarch 15, 2005
Owners notifiedApril 11, 2005
Vehicles affected9,965
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.

Owner complaints about the lights

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 05V-096 repair free?

Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the left and right xenon headlamp reflectors free of charge. The recall began on April 11, 2005. Owners May contact Audi at 1-800-822-2834.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 9,965 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.