Associate Lurker

Hello, new to posting, been lurking for a while.
I seemed to have narrowed my next car down to the D2 face lifted A8L. What is everyones opinion regarding mileage? I have no reservations about 100/k cars (kept in great shape and FULLY depreciated), At what mileage am I smart, too cheap, or just stupid to buy? I keep my cars until the wheels fall off. Also how do everyones insurance rates compare to similar cars?

TonyA8

This is what I did (93k, 2001 A8L). Love the car. However, you will have to do some maintenance to get it ready for the next 100k miles. Specifically, change transmission fluid and filter, spark plugs, timing belt, water pump, thermostat, brake fluid, ... If you do it your self, then you are in good shape. If not, try to get one which has at least performed the timing belt, thermostat and waterpump (don't forget timing belt tensioner as well). Some people who bought a used car and had the TB done had a serious problem as the previous owners did not do the tensioner as well resulting in a timing belt problem, bent valves...

Associate Lurker

That's what I am looking for. Other potentials I was thinking include the 02 sensors (four?) And rubber (bushings, control arms, engine mounts), radiators... or is the A8 good till 200k on these?
Trans fluid changes seem to be an area of great debate. I would feel more comfortable with a 1/3 fush fill with a filter on the first and second 3rds, but I am still learning from this board about the trans.
Thanks again.

DutchDoofus

At around 150k you will need new controlarms as the rubber bushings will get worn out.