Hi all,

I'm looking to get rid of my Honda and pick up an A4...2001. I've been looking at quattros and also an a4 with kamei parts...not sure if that's a version but it's a really nice car. I'm wondering though..are these cars reliable or should I set a side a load of cash for repairs on these cars in comparison to hondas?

Thanks

 

depends if regular maintinence was done on the car which engine does it have 1.8t or 2.8?
generally an audi will require more maintenance than a honda but thats the price you pay for driving a luxury car. Kamei is a company that makes aftermarket parts stuff like the front grille, and mirrors probably other things 2

 

Thanks a lot. I've been looking at the 2.8 but I don't mind grabbing a 1.8 turbo either. Are there any 2.8's in 5spd standard? What type of additional maintenance is required with these? Other than the maintenance, are there any major issues (engine/tranny/suspension/brakes) or recalls with these cars?

Thanks

 

yes there are 2.8 with a 5 spd both engines require timing belt changes usually every 120 000km control arms tend to go, wheel bearings, the lcd display tends to get messed up and the 1.8t has had sludge issues. Generally the 2.8 is more reliable.

Search the forums there are a lot of threads on this

 

Thanks, i'll search around. One last quick question..how much cash will I have to drop on a 1.8T to gain similar power as the 2.8?

 

not much if you chip the 1.8t around $500-600 your gonna have more power than the 2.8

 

not bad. I found a few good deals on 99-2000 audi a4's but they had about 250K. Should I steer away? Does audi's typically have engine/tranny/clutch/suspension/wiring, etc, problems after certain mileage? I know some other car manufactures and models turn in to lemons after a certain amount of K.

Thanks

 

Compared to Honda repairs, you will need two full briefcases of cash. But seriously, the cars are quite reliable but not as reliable as Honda's. Also, parts and labour are more expensive.

 

I have a 98 A6 2.8L NON-Quattro. I've had it about 8 months. The previous owner took exceptional care of the vehicle with all old records available. Paid $4500, which I thought was a deal until 6 months later I need to drop $1500 for 2 new catalytic (rear) converters and new control arms on front passenger...not sure of cost of those yet.

Prices of parts are ridiculously higher than Hondas (had integra and legend previously).

Find a good VW or Audi mechanic and become close friends! Get a job at car parts store with good discount!

Just kidding...really though, unless I'm making substantially more money next time I have to buy a car, it will probably be a Honda. I LOVE my Audi, but it is very expensive. But again, I do LOVE it!!

 

Suspension (Bushings/ control arms)

alignment (if lowered, the inner tread of the tires will wear off quicker)

wheel bearings

engine (timing belt/valve cover gaskets/boost leaks(1.8t)

transmission (differential fluid leak) --could easily be topped up ever so often

side view mirrors tend to "rust" from the inside out

numerous complaints of ppl saying the sunroof will have a mind of its own.

cruise control not functional

blinkers (common problem on VW and Audi. relay to be replaced)

secondary air pump (you'll know its on its way out if you hear a loud vacuum sound just after a cold start)

LCD Dash screen fades or develops missing lines/pixels

but i still love my car