First off, I am new to the forum, and just wanted to say hi to everyone.
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I am considering buying a used A4 [99/00]
Leather - manual trans - 1.8T


I have questions regarding the reliability of the car.
I am handy with cars, so if anything minor, I will do it myself.
Parts as far as I know are decently priced.

My questions is on the timing belt.
Is it a myth? I heard many rumors that it breaks, and damages the whole engine.
Obviously this is possible, but is this common?
I am probably looking around 60k miles...

Is this car a money pit?

Thanks for your opinion.

-Godlyone

 

Welcome to the forum.

First, the seats are not leather, they are "leatherette" (eg pretty good looking vinyl). A lot of people, especially car salesmen, mistake them for leather.

The cars are not as reliable as Honda, or Toyota, and parts for german cars are more expensive, with lower availability of aftermarket replacement parts.

Most cars including Audi and, I believe Honda, are interference engines. That means that if the timing belt goes, the valves will hit the piston, and you can kiss your engine goodbye.

Audi recommends changing the belt at 105K miles. Most people agree that you are starting to push your luck at 80K miles. On the early cars, the timing belt tensioner was at fault.

Other major issue is that the front control arms wear out causing squeeks and clunks when you slowly go over speed bumps.

When you find a car, take into account whether the timing belt will need to be changed (figure 700+ dollars) and make an offer accordingly. Before buying make sure that you have the car checked by a mechanic specializing in VW or Audi.