Hi all, finally made up my mind not going with the 2.7t anymore just can't be bothered with the maintenance/problems (yes we all love Audi and no i'm not lazy, so let's just be honest and admit the 2.7t was a bad build reliability wise)

looking for a 2004 A6 4.2 Mods will be: PES Chip, Full Exhaust, and if I ever get smoked to bad then go get a PES 4.2 kit.


Just wondering if anyone can give me some insight on the 4.2
things like, what mileage to change timing belt, water pump, any similar problems like the 2.7t? basically what to look out for and what to expect! mileage will be under 50k if I cannot locate one then no more than 70k.

 

The 2.7t imho was not a bad build. The stock block and heads will last over 300,000 miles if maintained. The turbos were a fluke, I'll say that, but other than that, the 2.7 is a good engine as far as twin turbo setups go. the 4.2 is also a good choice though, its just a matter of whether you like boost or big engines.

 

agreed. but you can make about 420hp with a PES stage 1+ kit, and full exhaust. just a fraction of the comparison to the options you can do with the 2.7t but 420hp is plenty.

so what would you say about 4.2 reliability? are there basic maintenance headaches like, C.V joints, tie rods, gaskets, oil leaks, hoses, early 60k full timing belt change, (in the tips and suggestions for 2.7t owner)
are these problems just with the 2.7t, or just the whole C5 build?

 

I just posted this problem with my CV shafts. https://www.audiforums.com/forum/sho...d.php?t=149667 I haven't had any other problems with the car that would be solely due to its drivetrain. My AC compressor locked up at about 90K, control arms started to make noise at around 100K, and replaced the shocks while doing the control arms. Again, nothing specifically related to the 4.2. It's a strong motor, and (knock on wood) I haven't had any major problems yet.

 

Nothing wrong with the 2.7T engine. And anything that spins over 20,000 rpm will eventually wear out. Knock on wood, just under 170k miles on mine and only failures were alternator, clutch, and headlight washers. Still original battery, suspension, and shocks. Chipped since 75k, but I don't beat the $hit out of it and do all maintenance.

 

Thanks for the tips guys, picking up next week so any more advice or experiences is well appreciated. Might just get a C6 though (def more reliable).

Thats the only thing I hate about reviews though you guys are making me just want to go pick up the C5, 04 4.2 or 04 s-line 2.7t because you haven't had much problems (knock on wood) BUT.................then theres another group saying no way! lol

 

I swear that if you go through these forums every thread where someone asks about the 2.7 we all say the most negative things. I don't think anyone has ever actually thought it would be a good car after they posted. Every car needs maintenance, the audi just needs alittle extra TLC but it totally delivers in driving satisfaction.