I am looking at buying a 1996 Audi A4 5-speed priced at $7800. The car has 89,000 miles and from what the owner has told me seems to be in very good condition. My concern is that I have heard I need to be a little weary of pre-99 Audi's because of maintenance problems. Can you Audi veterans give me some input. Keep in mind I am someone who takes very good care of cars and I am only concerned with those problems which are going to be unavoidable. Basically this is going to be a daily driver and I cannot afford to deal with problems all of the time. Thanks for your help.

 

My first concerns would be the clutch, timing belt, water pump, thermostat, and control arms.
Which engine?

 

It's the 2.8 2WD. But don't all 1996 A4's come with a 2.8? I'm pretty sure that the 1.8T didn't debut until 1997.

 

That's why I asked. I'm not familiar with all Audis pre-1997.

Is your 2.8 a four valve?