Hi I am considering to buy a private sale of 2002 a4 1.8T (36k miles).
The seller did an APR chip but did not update a diverter valve, and have been
driving. Is this a big concern? How much does the valve upgrade cost?
Also once I get this audi, do I need to go to a dealer for simple routine
services (oil, brake fluid, sparks) where they charge about twice
a regular repair shop does? Thanks.

 

Dv is no problem untill it is blown. You can get one from $80-150

All the routine maintance is just simple tasks that anyone can do. Save your money and get to know your car by doing it yourself.

 

also, if you are not that technically inclined yourself, its best to find an area shop that specializes in German cars and go to them, as most times you'll save a ton of money. AVOID DEALERSHIPS AT ALL COSTS!!

 

thanks guys. perhaps another question I have is whether to choose between 1.8T and 3.0.
Gas mileages are 21/29 vs 17/25 - but I don't drive much (~5k/yr) so 3.0 is fine. Having said that I don't care power much either - so 1.8T is fine. Price differences are not much. Could there be any other issues I need to consider in choosing between 1.8T and 3.0?
Thanks

 

Go 1.8T for economy or if you want to mod for more power (e.g. chip upgrades and such). 3.0 gives more power stock and is overall more reliable but mod options are limited.

The 3.0 models have more features like power seats and real leather too, so that might be a factor. Most 3.0s are tiptronic, manuals seem to be relatively scarce, but are more common with the 1.8T, if you prefer three pedals and a stick.

Whichever one you get though, you can save a lot of $$$ by doing basic maintenance (oil changes, filter changes, plugs etc.) yourself. Note that all A4s prefer premium gas (91 octane or better) and synthetic oil (esp. the 1.8T).

 

i drove wit an APR chip wit out a new DV for abour 2K and it was alrite but eventually it will go

a new stronger DV is about 35-130
the 710N is about 35 and it would be enogh for just a chip

and only 36K on an 02, that car wasnt driven much

 

You can get a DV for 35$ - 180$.. All you need is one strong enough for a chip, but the higher you go the more boost you hold. It won't cost a lot to have it installed either (if you can't do it yourself) thats not a big worry, seems like a good deal, low miles... I'd say go for it if everything checks out

 

710n's are $50 from ecstuning and like $80 from the dealer now.

 

Were just giving a range, from cheap ones to hyperboost price...

 

After getting my flash at the dealership, even in the new stock program with only the new dv,I noticed it held boost better, & felt just a bit stronger. Changing to the pumpprogram made this car fun. I'm sure any chip change warrants a dv change as well.