Need an Education

[TheBestCow]

I've been in the BMW world for over 10 years. Looking to get into a wagon and looking at an A4 Avant or BMW 525/528. I know what to look for on the BMW, but know absolutely nothing on the Audi side of things.

Thought I would find a sticky in this forum about common mechanical issues, what to watch for, mechanical issues, what to replace at certain mileages, etc, but didn't see it.

Someone care to gently educate me?

Thanks in advance!

[derZeck]

what body A4? B5, B6, B7, B8? What engine are you looking for 4 cyl turbo or 6 cyl?

One thing you are always looking for in a used Audi is maintenance records, specifically timing belt/water pump. It is typically done about every 100k depending on the model and engine your choose.

[TheBestCow]

Well I've been looking at A4 B6 Avants, that's why I posted in this forum.

Thanks for the reply. I found this: http://www.audi-sport.net/vb/a4-a4-c...checklist.html

Know about timing belt/tensioner, ECT sensor, etc. Anything lacking on the list?

I've had a friend tell me it is really important about consistent oil changes with a certain type of oil. True? If so, can you provide more details?

[derZeck]

yeah, VW/Audi requires 504.00 & 507.00 specs and only synthetic. I personally use Pentosin, but there are other brands you can use. Just flip the bottle over and check for the VW/Audi 504.00/507.00

ETC sensor is like $10, not super easy to change, but not bad.

Speaking of fluids and ETC, VW/Audi requires special fluid in just about every system. Even though it takes special fluids they are not crazy expensive and fairly easy to come by (at least here in Toledo, OH)

[TheBestCow]

Anything else? No one has a list of common failure points?

[derZeck]

B6 1.8t quattro's are tanks, you keep up the maintenance and they run forever

[sinistervii]

http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthrea...ng-my-first-A4


just like stated above. just keep up on maintenance.