jtravisdavid

My wife and I are looking at a 2002 allroad w/ 59K miles. Nice paint (greyish-green color),perfect black interior. The negotiated price is $17,800, which is just above trade-in value. I've owned a 2000 BMW 328, so I know all about the small, petty-yet-expensive problems that German cars can have. I have a couple questions:

1. The adjustable suspension seems like it will break eventually. If(when) it does, can I replace the suspension with a standard shock/spring setup? I was thinking a stock A6 suspension could be installed on the vehicle.

2. The engine is quick and runs great. Any big problems I should look for?

3. Vehicle warranty? Yea or nay? If yea, which companies are reputable and fair?

4. Any other tips/hints/warnings?

Thanks in advance for your tips!

Travis

blackIIIroad

info in the archives. Suspension can be switched out to coil-overs (one person, thus far, has accomplished this ) I don't think the A6 suspension set up will work straight across

girlroad

1. Can be done, see faq but it's expensive
2. You don't say if it is a 2.7T or a 4.2? 2.7T more issues than 4.2 but more mods available
3. Absolutely have to IMHO have an extended warranty or be rich, or be good with tools, or even better all three
4. Read up and as you say it's going to require more/different maintenance than your average Honda, but be way more fun to drive. Read up and good luck.

Killer Becks

no 4.2 in '02

girlroad

My bad, then yes there can be issues....read up some more

RMcQ

The a6 suspension is prolly not a great idea. A indep mechanic tried it for a customer and ended up contacting me via email for some advice. The car was just too low and couldn't be aligned. The geometry is different. I could make the coilovers work since I could wind them up as needed.

I should reiterate also for everyone that I still have yet to solve the electronic side of the suspension situation. Pulling any fuses, relays, or components just results in a suspension warning light. The best I have come up with is to trick the sensors into thinking they are where they want for level one and leaving it in manual mode setting 1. I still get the suspension warning light if I take a heavy load or otherwise vary the normal ride height.

I have some ideas for a more permanent fix, but have not had time to tinker.