a4 reliability/maintenance
 

having read many items on this forum re: a4 service and maintenance disasters, i wonder if anyone can refer me to impartial sources discussing a4 [specifically 1.8t, manual]dependability and repair records. many thanx.

You'll find this bunch is impartial. The excitement.....
 

found in this forum should not be mis-interpreted as bias. We know when Audi does something good, and we also understand that they are like any car and will have problems from time to time, especially if they are not maintained.

The only statistically significant data I know of is consumer report
 

But they include minimal details.

But you'll find certain problems mentioned with some regularity here, such as control arms, bypass valves, etc. But there is no way you can derive quantitative data from it.

The biggest problem is actually parts availability. The A4 is not too bad in terms of reliability, but sometimes you have to wait for days to get a part.

my experience...
 

...I just couldn't pass this one up without posting a followup: I own a '97 A4 1.8t, and I've put 87k miles on it. I've owned it since it was new, and I've taken exteremly good care of it and followed the regular matience schedule. Currently, I have ZERO boost coming from the turbo charger, and no body can seem to figure out why. I've had it in the dealer twice now, and I'm taking it back next week. My last repair bill was approx $2500 when I had the dealer replace the timing belt, heater core (which was leaking), water pump, and breaks. I love my car, I love driving it, I love being seen in it. Overall: it's an awesome car. However, if you are considering a purchase, know that Audi owners require a lot of money and patience.

Good luck!

It seems like too much money for the work