1.8quattrodriver

im in the market of getting an audi. most likely a 1.8t quattro, probably between the yrs of 04-06. my question is what are the things i should be looking for when test driving and looking at the cars. also what problems that are common to expect once i get the car.
thanks

Stl4

this forum has 2.0T's or 3.2's - check out the B6 forum.

B_S373N

- get the car inspected by an independent tuner - important
- make sure carfax etc. checks out
- try and get one with an Audi CPO
- make sure it has all service records
- make sure all recalls heeded
- make sure it was serviced at a reputable garage (better if its service records are well documented on AW) that knows Audi's well
- use judgment call on previous owner - i.e. is it a punk, is car heavily modified, why is he getting rid of it, etc.
- 2nd hand reliability on German cars is ppn. to owner's ability to upkeep. check oil change intervals. does owner look wealthy enough to upkeep car properly? avoid buying from a student or somebody prone to take short cuts or use cheap labour.
- of course, get it VAG-COMed

AFAIK re. 1.8T:
- 1.8T prone to oil sludge
- check for timing belt replacement if high mileage. if not replaced, budget for one.
- prop car on hoist, check for play in wheels, check CV joints, inspect suspension. replacing wheel bearings can give you a real headache.

i'm no car expert, nor am i an expert on the 1.8T. bought a 2nd hand B5 as a student and chose the wrong car. repairs really gave me a headache. what i learned: pro-active due diligence = rewarding ownership.

regardless, hope this helps, good luck with your purchase!