PISUMMER

found a 97 2.8 quattro a4 5 sp, 50k on it - for 16k - what should I be looking for in the way of mechanical issues - already had struts replaced. Car rides great - any hot items to look for?
thanks

Matt H.

Control Arms, maybe clutch (but mine is a 96 with 74K...the clutch is solid)

z00tv_chris

I bought a certified 97 2.8 from an audi dealer - 5 spd manual, quattro, etc...

thank god for the warranty, it has been in for over $5k in repairs in the 9 months that I have owned it. I will list:

control arms, both
power steering rack
clutch bushing (squeeking)
cat converter, both drivers side/pass side
numerous leaks in hoses, oil, power steering

when it isnt in the shop for the week, it is a great car.



-chris

maaliish

Great car, but I did have to replace a few things in it. Funny thing is that it was perfect when I just got it (one year ago) but after only one week of driving I heard a bad balljoint and one month after that car started to feel loose. I also had to do my brakes to get the car through safety inspection.

All in all I had to replace:
Right lower control arm, both tierod ends and brakes. I also performed 60K service which included timing belt, water pump, thermostat and v-belts. I decided not to put stock brakes on the car when I was doing the brake job, so I went with x-drilled and mintex combo.

I also lowered my suspension, installed rear sway bar, changed the headlights to projectors, installed a TAP intake and changed the grille. Now the car looks and rides exactly how I wanted it. Let me tell you this much, you do not have to do any mods, its still a great car, but if you can save a few $$$ I would definately replace the headlights and lower it. I never thought I would do anything like change suspension and such when I just got the car, but I saw how much better it could look and I just could not bare to leave it stock.

Not counting any mods, I spend about 2K CAD on what has mostly been maintenance (60K service and brakes), but I knew that that had to be done when I was purchasing the car, and it is not something that has to be done every year. All in all out of pocket expenses where around 700CAD for control arm and tie-rods (which I included in the above 2K).

maaliish

My exaust sounds a little weird around the header/cat area so I am wondering what exactly was the problem with your car?

I am also wondering about the clutch, was it just squicking, or did you have any other problems (getting it into a gear, etc.)?