I am in a bit of a dilemma. I have a 2001 2.7T Tiptronic with 79k miles on it. I have just replaced the brakes and had an immobilizer issue which required a new immobilizer unit AND guage cluster (at least I dont have the pixel issue anymore!). These items ended up taking about $2100 out of my pocket.

Here's the dilemma: I have coolant leaking, oil leaking, and a CEL. The dealer explained that I have the typical issues such as bad cam seals, torn CV boots, leaking coolant pump. To top it off, I'm nearing the time to replace the timing belt, water pump, etc. These repairs would run me another 3 grand or so. I just dont know if its worth the trouble.

Now, I my wife and I are trying to decide what to do. Pay for the repairs, or trade it in? Other than the issues, the car is in great shape. Any suggestions? Anyone know of a place in the Cincinnati area that could assist with the repairs without raping me? Any thoughts are appreciated!

 

Well you know you have around $3k of repairs on the stuff you actually know about. Factor in a little more for the stuff you don't know about, and then factor in what happens if you need to replace the turbos. I know there are people out there with 120k on the clock that have stock turbos, but there are also a lot of people that have to replace them before 100k....so since you are at 80k now you really need to do a cost benefit analysis.

I love my 03 A6, but the longer I own it the more I regret opting for the 2.7T. Had I known then what I know now, I would have just bought a 4.2L V8 and probably slept a little better not constantly thinking about the turbos. Of course I do love a turbo car - but they just seem more prone to issues.

At the end of the day this is really a decision you need to make yourself, but based upon blue book trade in values, another $3000+ on a 2001 A6 is probably not a great idea unless you love the car andplan on keeping it for the long haul. I would look around and just get an idea of what trading is going to get you. It doesn't hurt to have all the information before making a decision.

 

Dump it and get a 4.2

 

I am definitely leaning towards droppin the car like a bad habit, but the trde-in value is sooo poor that its a tough decision.

 

Seven year old cars that need expensive repairs never have a high trade in value. Bite the bullet and trade it in on a new 4.2. It is a sweet ride.

 

Trade it in. Seems like you're opportunity cost is going to be way higher than you would like. Take a bit of a loss now with the trade in so you can win in the long haul with the new ride.

 

Nobody ever claimed Audis were reliable. If I wanted something reliable I would have bought a Toyota! [:@]

Let us know what you decide....I know it's a tough call.

 

I would like to purchase the parts on my own, but I am finding that alot of shops wont put them on if they arent from them.

 

Dump it!

I have a 99 2.8 with 130K and although it's a different year and engine, I've had to put a lot of dough into it - and I had an aftermarket bumper to bumper warranty up through 100K! I'm probably going to have to put a 3rd set of control arms on the passenger side, I've replaced numerous seals, had the whole timing belt service, etc... I too love the handling, interior, etc.. but the long term outlook isn't that great. In the interest of disclosure however, I'm not much of a DIY'er. I probably could have saved some money had I more mechanical skills, tools, time, and so on. Good luck

 

I just love the way the car drives, but unfortunately, the reliability issues are just too much. We've decided to try something different, maybe a new A6. Even the Audi tech I spoke to said that once the factory warranty is up on an Audi, its best to get rid of them. What I dont get is how can a car drive so nicely have so many issues?