2001 Audi A4 1.8T
140,000 miles

This car has become a money pit over the last few years (I was admittedly bad about maintaining it) so I'd like to know the best way to go about selling it and how much I should expect to get.

HISTORY:

Several months ago, smoke was coming out of the exhaust (blown turbo) and loud clicking sounds from the engine were making me uncomfortable. I got it checked out but left it untouched for months and got a cheap replacement.

Last week, I got the car jumped and took it to another shop for diagnosis and advice. I am told the car is not in driving condition as it can't pass emissions and I'd get pulled over and have the car taken away. They said they're having problems just getting the car to start with a jump and it needs a new battery. A guy at the shop offered $500 and said my only other option is to sell it to a junker, which would probably only give me $400-450 for it.

Below are the diagnoses/recommendations I got on the car from 2 shops in LA:

DIAGNOSIS 1

1. Replace axles $1,600 (or $500 to fix)
2. Collapsed breather assembly $550 - Collapsed but not broken or leaking, car will eventually shut down
3. Replace turbo $2,300
4. Replace clutch $2,300 to $3,000 - Replace clutch, fly wheel, pressure plate, wheel bearing, slate cylinder

DIAGNOSIS 2

1. Timing belt package $889
2. Turbo $1,800
3. Battery $169
4. Both front axles $1,000
5. Front left control arm $389
6. A/C compressor $1,200
7. Coolant flush
8. 2 tires

If $500 is about the value of the car, I'll just take the money and leave the car with the shop but I wanted to get other people's thoughts so I'd appreciate any advice. I just want to get as much as possible with minimal effort so I can put this car behind me.

I also have aftermarket stereo components installed about 6 years ago but I might just leave everything inside unless I can get anything for them without too much hassle. Panasonic CD head unit, Infinity 6.5's, Rockford Fosgate Punch Power 12" subwoofer in custom ported box.

 

Since you want to part with the car either take the $500 or counter with say $750. The car in great condition only has a $2500 to $3500 value. Your repairs exceed that value. The hassle of trying to find a buyer would maybe net you another $500 (if you are lucky).