Hi there, I have an A4 2.0t Quattro with 170k, 6-spd. I need a new front differential, and supposedly it comes with a new transmission so mechanic suggested replacing both (he said mine is making noise) which will run me $2,500 for a used diff/transmission with 75k on it. I can get a $200 warranty on it, and im guessing it could go another 100k perhaps depending on condition.
I am torn if i should keep it or trade in before the problem becomes worse and i am forced to do it, as right now its in early phases. And if i do replace it, what else can I expect to replace now that miles are getting up there. Is it known for any turbo, engine, rear differential, or other issues? And it might be a silly question but is a clutch part of the transmission repair/replacement?

And is there some kind of maintenance that I missed? Should there have been fluids changed that my mechanic missed? He is not an audi expert.

Any thoughts or input appreciated. Im just a few mo's away from paying off and worried if I keep it I might regret. I could trade it in (not sure what I will get, mechanic said this issue is not apparent) for something more reliable. But i do like this car allot.... :/

 

I might opt for the warranty depending on how long it is good for, what it covers, and any other conditions that is has. I would guess they will replace the clutch while they do the swap, but I would have them confirm. Only other high dollar item (outside the engine) would be the turbo. You are probably going to need a rebuild/replacement at some point. I am at almost 180k and think I will need to replace the turbo in the next 20 to 50k miles. I have found a rebuild place for about $400 or a replacement can be around $1k. I think of it this way. If I can get by with $3k or $4K in repairs and keep the car another 2, 3, 4 years than it is worth it (especially if you love the car). A $250/mo car payment would run you $6k over 2 years.

If you trust your mechanic then I would follow the recommendation (should you choose to keep the car). I would also take it to the dealer or an Audi shop for a second estimate. I would be surprised that you can't repair the front diff separate from the transmission.