First off, I have tried searching for these answers but I either used the wrong terms in my search or missed the post(s) with the answers, because I haven't been able to find what I want to know.

The car: 2002 A4 1.8TQM

1) When the car is due for a scheduled maintenance (in my case, the 30k service), there should be a light or message on the instrument cluster, correct? I've had the car for a week now, and crossing the 30,000 mile threshold was a part of that week.

I don't know if the previous owner had it done, or if I need to. There is no indicator like I was expecting, but there's no stamp in the service log like there is for the 10k and 20k mile services. Should I assume that if the indicator has been reset, that the maintenance has been done?

2) The suspension is a bit rougher than I expected... I really feel the bumps in the road moreso than in my previous car. I've read a few posts here saying that "red shocks/springs = sport package", but every post I saw that in was directed towards a B5 owner. Is that still the case with the B6 A4's?

My car having the sport package would explain the stiffer suspension, but so would the shocks just needing to be replaced. My springs are black, and I have 16" wheels, so I don't think I have the sport package, but it would be nice to know for sure.

3) Another DV question: I understand the need to upgrade the DV at the same time I get a chip put in, my question is what benefit the Forge DVs offer over the cheaper 710N. I wouldn't mind paying the extra money for the Forge, if I'm actually going to get some benefit out of it. I doubt I'll be doing many engine mods, other than chip/DV/exhaust.

Thanks in advance to anyone who helps!

 

Yes it should tell you about service.
Second , if you have 16' wheels I dont think you have the sport package. Its not hard to tell , if you do , the car will be alot lower.
And about the DV , if all your going to do is chip it , then the 710N would be fine.
I have an 03 APR chipped and I have been running the stock DV for almost a year now.

 

If all you are going to do is put in a chip, the 710N should be fine.

The light should have come on at 30K miles, but could have been reset at some time in between. As you have the service book, call where the car was previously serviced, and see if the 30K service was done. Alternatively, call the guy you bought the car from.