I bought a 2000 A4 1.8T and just got it back after an authorised audi servicer gave it a 75,000km (km, not miles) service. As well as being told it is overdue for a cam belt replacement (big money), new brake pads and a couple of tyres, they say I also need:
- left and right tie rod ends
- left and right upper links, both front and rear.

Is it reasonable to expect that a 75,000km car should need the tie rods and upper links replaced?

How important is the replacement of the upper links? Is it a safety issue? What would happen if I left them alone?

TIA .... Greg

 

Yeah I have a 2000 A4 and just hit the 100,000KM mark. I need to do the control arms and sway bar links as well. They are a problem on the A4 - tend to prematurely wear out. Get a 'control arm kit' such as this one: http://www.purems.com/products/product.php/II=1013

They have everything in them. Ask the stealership to check and see if your car has had the lower control arm recall done. As well, at 100,000KM you will probably look at replacing the timing belt. PM me and I can get you Canadian websites to check out for prices on control arms and timing belt kits.

**edit: I just noticed you are in Australia - can't help you with websites there.

 

Yes that is normal, but probably not reasonable.

B5 A4's have had problems with the control arms, tie rods and timing belts. Both need dealt with.

 

Find an independent mechanic. That will save you some money.

 

^^^^^I second that...Don't waste your money at the stealership...and its not a lemon, normal stuff.

 

i'm surprised no one has mentioned this yet, but you are not at all 'overdue' for a timing belt replacement...90k km is the soonest you should start thinking about it, audi recommends 140k km...if the shop you're taking it to is telling you the belt is overdue, i would definitely find a new shop. UNLESS maybe you have the old style belt in there, but i'm pretty sure the 00+ didn't have the old style.

 

Nah the 00 has the updated tensioner, but my engine is starting to be loud. Well not loud, just the noise of the belt has increased so I am starting to worry, 100,000KM. It could be the bearing is starting to sieze up on the tensioner.

 

yeah.. my front right control arm needs replacing and my rear left upper ball joint... grrr
yay.. another aussie

 

Do you have a lemon? Nope, you have an Audi. So, when it comes to sh*t like this, yes, it's a lemon. I have ~76k on mine, and I've replaced a ton of parts.

Otherwise great car.

 

"Recalls" are country specific, so although in the US we can get some coverage for lower control arms ( the upper ones are going on my car), this does not apply to other countries.

75K Km is very short for a timing belt. With the 2000 you should not need it done to about 120K. At that time make sure you do the related parts including tensioners, water pump AND front cam seals.