So I think its finally time to get rid of my 91' Acura Integra. Its too old for me and I am ready for something more luxurious. The 98-00' Audi A4's (1.8T or 2.8, no Quattro) interest me because they are about $9k on KBB with +/- 80,000 miles. This seems a little low for an Audi to me.


So, what my main question is, is what to look for when I am test-drivng some Audi's. I have read a lot of articles about Audis and it seems like 1.8T's have more problems than the 2.8's. Is this true? Also, there is a problem with oil-sludge build-up with some of the engines if oil isn't changed at the right times/miles. What can I look for under the hood of some cars, and also when I am driving, what type of vibrations/sounds should I be listening for. Are there any common problems that happen around 80,000 miles? If you can answer any of these questions, that would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

 

yes, the 2.8s typically have less problems than the 1.8Ts....oil sludge is a problem with the 1.8Ts, just make sure there are COMPLETE service records and regular oil changes. when you're under the hood you're going to hear a slight clicking coming from the valve cover, that's normal for audis...here's my standard "what should i look for" response......

 

Thanks man! Ill try to make myself a list and start checking stuff off that is fine with the car.

 

np....the timing belt job is a major service. mechanics will charge between 500-1000...you can buy complete kits from ecstuning for less than 300 bucks. if the timing belt hasn't been done yet, deduct that from the price. it has to be done. if it breaks, so does your engine. it's bad.

 

Wow, I just looked at a picture of the engine bay and that timing belt looks like its hard to get to. No wonder why its so expensive to change.

 

I have a 98 2.8 q. A buddy and me are going to tackle the timing belt here in a couple of weeks using the ecstuning kit. I'll let you know how it goes.

 

I guess I will look at the records and make sure to buy an Audi that has had the timing belt replaced. It could definately save me a lot of time and money in the long run.

 

I bought the timing belt kit from ecstuning and it was alright. You might be able to get a better price from a Volkswagen dealer thought. And before anyone jumps on me about dealerships i do know that Mitchell Volkswagen in CT would have charged me less for the parts. Just a heads up.

 

i got my a4 1.8t quattro for 8 grand flat, with a new timing belt and a few bumps and bruises on the fenders... overall an exelent car...

i got a few lights on in the dash, so make sure to check for those, and ask about them if there are any...

didnt kno that the clicking under the valve cover was normal, but yet another good reason to be at this fourm

i just took it to an audi independant mechanic near the seller's house, he found some odds and ends to clear up, so i think that is usually a good idea.

make sure all the fluids are somewhat fresh..

good luck man, personally id go with the 1.8, just cuz of the turbo and aftermarket potential... but the 2.8 is definatly worth it if your looking for a cruiser

 

Will I feel a lot more power with the 2.8 engine or is the 1.8T just about the same? Is the 2.8 model also a little heavier?