bowerygeothermal

I took my 2004 S4 with 81,000 miles to the local dealer for an oil change as I had a coupon for discount. They called me 30 minutes later to let me know that they had discovered cracks in my upper link bushing and "strongly recommended" that I have both the front and rear bushings replaced at $1,300 as well as an alignment for an additional $180. They explained that this was normal wear and tear (NJ highways are like the surface of the moon) and estimated less than 1,000 miles before I would need to replaced the bushings.

How badly did I get jammed?

nickcarguy

If they're referring to the upper control arms, both arms, & both sides would be less than what was quoted. Let me guess: Jack Daniel's Audi in Fairlawn, or Upper Saddle River?
Dealerships compensate their service writers on a low base plus a hefty commission for writing surprises like this. It is standard operating procedure. They are compensated and highly motivated to write as much add on non-warranty work as possible.
Find a good, honest, knowledgeable independant . Light years more trustworthy , and less expensive than any stealership I have known.
Sad but true. Audi is lagging far behind their peers in this area. Unless the problem is just isolated to NJ, and my negative experiences.

MikekiM@PureMS

It'd be recommended that you replace the entire arms. We've got a great kit of the 4 upper arms for just this purpose.

Upper CA Kit
The bushings are a common problem with these cars, and these kits are a great way to save some money.

Peter Badore

How close are you to Tuckahoe, New York? There is a good honest Audi mechanic located there.

nitro1

Totally agree with everyone here. That is a rip-off. Plus, you should replace the entire control arm. Each arm is about $150 bucks each.