anonmartin

Guys,

I'm a seven-time Audi owner but have shied away from the A4 because of the nightmare reliability stories I've heard. I've been pleased with all my Audis and would like to try an A4.

There is one on ebay now that I am considering. What feedback would you give me about this car (follow eBay link), and the 2001 A4 1.8T quattro in general. Is this a reliable car? What major issues do these cars have?

Many thanks!<ul><li><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&amp;item=320006971659">http ://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&amp;item=320006971659</a</li></ul>

specialk9991

The B5 FAQ (also a link at the top of the page, and in my sig), you can also search for other posts like yours. These should tell you all you want to know about buying an A4. Good luck.<ul><li><a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/a4/msgs/2494241.phtml">AWB5 FAQ</a></li></ul>

pac1085

theres a good chance that the turbo will fail

the control arms are sure to fail

timing belt will need replacement (not very expensive if you do it your self, but the dealer will kill you on the labor)

those are the biggest issues IMO, but if you mod the car there will be alot more that will pop up

calbear92

if this isn't your only mode of transpo, then this sounds and looks like a nice car.

however, be prepared for lay out some $$$ and time for 'maintenance'. if you're handy, diy- order parts from puremotorsports and save the labor.

big ticket items: timing belt, water pump, thermostat, etc; control arms for sure. k03 turbo- esp wastegate will probably fail down the road. abs computer is a possibility and need to check for sludge too.

other incidentals: coil packs, icm, various leaks: pcv system, valve cover gaskets, cam seals, cam tensioner seal, rear differential seals, headlight washer pump(s), oil cooler/hoses, power steering hoses/rack ($$$).


not to scare you, but if you're prepared in advance and still go forward, welcome to the club! otherwise, japanese cars are the way to go in terms of absolute reliability and as trouble-free as a car can be.