From the 1980s when it conquered the rally circuit with the Audi Quattro, Audi has a fabled history of all-wheel drive cars. Audi's more recent batch of vehicles follow in this legacy, and many also boast advanced all-wheel drive systems. If you are getting your vehicle straight from the factory, then you can be sure it has been well tested. However, if you are buying second-hand, test to ensure the all-wheel drive system is functioning as it should.
Slide a floor jack underneath the front of the car, after applying the parking brake. Raise the vehicle until both front wheels are slightly clear off the ground -- only a matter of inches, so it will not be hazardous if the vehicle rolls off the jack.
Enter the vehicle, close the door and start the engine. Now release the parking brake and place the transmission in first gear. Apply a tiny bit of power and if the all-wheel drive system of your Audi is working, then the car will attempt to move forward, propelled by the still-grounded rear wheels.
Set the parking brake and get out of the car after turning the engine off.
Remove the jack and place it under the rear of the car. Now, the rear wheels should be slightly aloft.
Repeat Step 2, except this time, if your Audi's all-wheel drive system is engaged, the car should creep forward via the front wheels, as the system is telling the car that is where the traction is this time.
Turn off the engine and set the parking brake. Remove the jack, safe in the knowledge, if it worked, that your Audi is in full-working order.
