Audi A4 - Any problems?

fre

I'm looking to buy one of the A4 series, 99 or higher, 1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol or the 1.9TD. Does anyone know of possible problems in these cars that I should look out for?

aodh_rua

The timing belt needs to be replaced on the diesels around the 70k to 80k mark. Apart from that they seem to be pretty reliable.

And the 130bhp TDi's hold their value better.

fre

I like the 1.9TD but I'd like to get back to a petrol car, what's the acceleration and fuel consumption like on the 1.9

aodh_rua

the acceleration is ever so slightly slower on the diesel, but the economy is pretty good. there's some info on the various models here .

fre

cheers aodh_rua!:)

aodh_rua

No problem - I've been looking at getting one myself.

caze

The 1.6 will do around 35 mpg. The 1.9Tdi will do around 50mpg. AFAIK 99 or 00 A4's have either the 90 or 110 BHP Tdi engines. Don't think the 130 BHP engine came until the newer model in 01.
Another thing to note with the TDI's is that due to the engine layout you more or less have to dismantle the front of the car to change the timing belt leading to high labour charges (approx €500) so try to get one that has had a recent change. I'm not sure if the petrol ones have the same problem.

Earlier versions of this car also had problems with premature wear of suspension parts especially front control arms. Also check electric windows and central locking.

Main dealer servicing is pricy, if u can find a friendly local guy to do it the parts aren't actually that expensive.

If you get a good one you can look forward to many years hassle free driving
Good Luck with your search!

aodh_rua

Originally posted by caze
The 1.6 will do around 35 mpg. The 1.9Tdi will do around 50mpg. AFAIK 99 or 00 A4's have either the 90 or 110 BHP Tdi engines. Don't think the 130 BHP engine came until the newer model in 01.

AFAIK the later old models were also available in the 130bhp TDi.

echomadman

Main dealer servicing is pricy, if u can find a friendly local guy to do it the parts aren't actually that expensive

amen to that, robbing bastards, aside from that point they're a great car, i've been driving one for two years now absolutely hassle free.

RicardoSmith

Would a high mileage one be a good buy?

daveg

I have a `00 1.9TDI (90BPH). Plenty fast enough for me. No real problems (had it a year) touch wood. If you have any Q's shout.

As for Servicing I had one done recently. Had oil/filter/air filter and a few other stuff done. cost 110 Euro.