Hi all, I'm looking @ a couple of avants for my son one has 145k (a6) another 125k (a4) both are quattro's what should I look out for? Thanks

 

Hi Skyguy,

These cars are not like the typical Japanese imports and can add a bit more maintenance and expense to ownership. Not saying that they are not reliable, but any used car with the mileage of the two you are looking at can be a money pit if the previous owner failed to maintain and service them regulary. With the cars you're speaking of, aside from a very thorough test drive to check for unusual noises and vibrations you should ensure that they have had recent timing belt changes. This one maintenance item alone is usually very costly and can easily run $1200 or more if you don't perform the work yourself.

You should also be mindful of any drivetrain noises...paying close attention to smooth transmission feel and shifts as well as any play or noises from suspension components. Another key area to check is for fluid leaks. Most Audi's, escpecially those with the V6 and V8 engines are prone to Valve cover leaks. When you do take one out for a test drive, pay close attention for any CEl (Check Engine Light), ABS light or AirBag light so that you are sure that these components are working properly. Its also a good idea to check all lights and switches and ensure that all of the options the car is equipped with are working. If you find any deficiencies...as long as they are minor, they can be a way for you to negotiate the asking price.

Finally, If you're not so mechanically inclined, ask the seller to allow you to have the car checked by a mechanic of your choice...preferably one who is familiar with Audis. Good Luck, Hope this helped.

 

Try not to pay more than about $2400, if it is a running car being sold as is with such high mileage. Avoid any car with transmission problems, etc., which are costly to repair. Hence, if you are unable to do the repairs, then look for a car which was well maintained.
The quattro has front, center and rear differentials which may fail if their fluid levels are not maintained. So, listen for whining gears when taking your test drive. Avoid any car which will not pass the safety and emmisions test. Watch out for black tape covering the Check Engine Light or with the bulb disabled. An OBDII scanner is required to verify that the emmision monitors are all ok.

 

VAGCom scanner (RossTech) not generic OBDII for Audi's.......

 

Twinturboc5, A6hcw, and NH USA thanks for the tips. I am somewhat familiar with Euro cars, since I do have an 07 A4 and an 03 HSE 7. I do know about the listening, and checking for leaks and service records. I was looking for specifics of what to look out for. TB and trans issues I know about. My wife trashed her 03 A4 Cab. due to not doing services, so I'm there with you on that. However we did pick up the 1998 A4 Avant in Brilliant Yellow with the 2.8 the mileage was actually 111k so we will be doing the service it needs.

 

I will be joining Thursday with a 98 A6 Avant with the typical services done.

 

A follow up to purchase we took advantage of the free inspection at local dealership with oil change (about 4 bucks more then a local Audi specialist wanted, and it did not include pro inspection with 150 check point thrown in by Audi). The car needs a CV boot and serpentine belt.
P.S. they fixed the broken license plate holder and washed the car. So kudos to Audi Exchange in Highland Park IL.