Hey, im looing into geting a used a4 the year ive been looking at is between 97 and 99 what are some things i should look for when buying a used car and then some things specific to an a4 of this time period thanks. and if you have any tips on buying a used car that would help as well.

 

Make sure the Timing Belt has been replaced! Do CarFax and test drive test drive test drive. Are you looking to go through a dealer or private party?

PS- Figuring out if you want a 1.8 or 2.8 is good to figure out also. Some of the stickied threads go into details about each type.

 

I just bought a 98 A4 2.8 quattro 5spd, i didnt think i need the turbo but i would like it as an additional car now-the 2.8 rides nice and smooth with enuf power for me but im 27 with a wife and kid and learned to take it easy lately. If u live in cali and have to drive the 405 a lot especially in rush hour u might want to get the automatic/tiptronic transmission,i drove a stick out there for 6 months and wanted to kill myself!!! stop and go stop n go I hate the 405,mostly its like a parking lot not a freeway!!!!

 

In trying to avoid the MANY 2.8 vs. 1.8t threads that there are on here. I'll tell you this. EachA4 is good for there own reasons. You can search for days on the subject.

I run a 2.8 and I LOVE my car as do the 1.8 guys. We LOVE our AUDI's, PERIOD. This should tell you something in itself.

That being said, buy a manual transmission. You will be happier in the end. Bottom line.

+1 on the TB (the most important) and test drive the crap out of it. As a matter of fact, drive as many of them as you can and don't buy the 1st one you come across. You will hear how they should sound and feel how they should drive.
I see you're in CT. There are alot of A4's for sale up by you. I'm in LI and I saw them all the time in my search.

COMPLETE Maintenance records are BIG + as with any used car.

Be prepared to spend $1000.00-$1500.00 JUST in CASE as with ANY used car purchase you're takinga chance.
GOOD LUCK!