PS7

I'm new to the board so first off I'd like to say hello to everyone.
The reason I'm posting is that I'm replacing my volvo xc70 with (hopefully) an Audi wagon, but I don't know much about the A4 Avants.
The specific car I'm considering is a 3.0 litre V6 2002 A4 Avant with 158,000 Kms on the odo.
I'd appreciate if someone could let me know what things I should be looking for when test driving this particular car and what are some major maintenance items or common failures that may be lurking in the near future. I'm thinking a timing belt is likely.
Thanks in advance.

elevation

Try to stick with a late model B6 (2004-2005). In used car reviews they are the most problem free.

I bought my 2005 a4 avant in Calgary. South Deerfoot Suzuki likes buying audi's (go figure!). it is worth calling. Ask for Patty and tell Her what you are looking for. I bought my car there recently so she will still remember it. Good luck.

Lee

elevation

If your heart is set on the 2002 avant you mentioned. Make sure to check the following;

-Service history (The timing belt was probably done at 120,000kms)
-When was the brake fluid last changed. Should be done every two years
-Check brakes/rotors (best done by a mechanic)
-Check the engine gaskets for small leaks. (best done by a mechanic)
-Check if the air conditioning is working (ECON button means AC is off)
-Make sure the current owner is using stock parts (oil filters, etc)

If your interested in a car with 160,000 it will be far from perfect. Just keep in mind that whatever you buy the car for you will probably be the last one to own it.

PS7

Hi Elevation,
Thanks for the info, I really appreciate it. I realize this is a somewhat nebulous question, but how many kilometers should a well maintained A4 run for? I'm used to getting 200-300 thousand kilometers out of my vehicles - is that a realistic expectation here or am I out to lunch?
Thanks again.

elevation

I am new to Audi as well so I don't know about Audi's with 200,000kms+ on them. I know it gets to a point where the repairs can be too expensive for what the car is worth. The fun of owning a german import I guess.

GeneKam

Owning imports is always an adventure! I have seen lots cars that are about 200, 000 to 220,000 on sale so I figure getting that much out of it isn't that much of an issue.

cc'savant

I bought the exact same car (with 95K on it) 2 years ago

I love the car, and with snow’s on it, I can’t even get it to fishtail in the winter. After I bought mine the front end did need a little work (about $400). There was a problem with the Catalytic Converter (which would have cost an arm and a leg), but it was covered under an old warrantee.

I’ve had a few volvo’s and would have a hard time going back after Audi. The only thing I’d wish for is a little more horsepower, but unless you go to an S4 or modify a 1.8T, you’re SOL. (it did have more pull then any of my Volvo’s mind you)