Hey all! I'm looking at purchasing a 1998 Audi A4 Quattro, 1.8t, 5 speed and I was curious about their stock reliability. I am aware that maintainence costs are going to be more than a domestic and thats fine with me, as long as it's not major repairs. I am aware of the timing belt/tensioner quality issues which I will be on top of. Are there any other issues like that? If you could all give me an idea of general reliability with proper care that would be great. Thanks!

 

Buy your parts online and some tools. Reliability will go up as you'll do the job right!
If you doesn't already have the skills you'll get them easy.

In a month, it's gonna be the first year owning a Quattro (2001 V6) and I have invested in it 800$ including taxes.

No major repair, only maintenance such as : Oil filters, fuel filters, air filters, oils, tires, 1 CV boot...
Just preventive maintenance and stuff related to wear...

 

I have the same ride you wanna get, its pretty good, the only major repairs i had to do was the clutch and the rad.
Cluch was my fault and the rad just got old

 

wheel bearings go to...

engine sludge, vaccuum leaks are common on 1.8's.

 

i'll second on the wheel bearings...

 

I'm also looking at a 2003 Audi A4 1.8T Sedan CVT... Could you guys provide me with some heads up reliability issue with this car?