Considering A8-new to Audi
 

My question is about serviceability. I am a DIY'er on my previous cars and trucks. Do I need any special tools or can I do most of the service work myself? I have seen the DIY section and saw the vid. for 1.8L TB. I Can do that. Is the A8 drastically different? Just more expensive right? I don't think bringing it to the dealer would be an option for me due to their price gouging.

I am looking into an Audi due to comfort and AWD. I have a 4 hour round trip commute 3 days a week. I like the A8 and A6 the older models (97-02) are in the price range. I plan to buy one that has already had the TB/WP done and hopefully the control arms/bushings and tie rod ends done with dealer service records. Under 150k.

The T-belt is bit tougher on the V8...it can be done at home, with a few special tools. The link is for prefacelift D2's (97-99 A8)...2000 and up 40V motors are a little bit easier and most of the same tools.
http://www.audipages.com/Tech_Articl...breplace0.html
A few of us have used alternate methods (achieving the same result) which require a few less tools, but still a careful involved job. Some of that discussed here:
http://tech.bentleypublishers.com/th...=3787&tstart=0

Another high mileage job, if it hasn't been done is a coolant leak from the oil cooler that is common:
http://www.audipages.com/Tech_Articl...reinstall.html

Buying an A8 with mileage over 100K, you may want to start a fund for trans rebuild too. Many go between 120K and 150K miles, most between 150K and 180K... a lucky few have made to 185K and higher.

If you haven't already, look at this thread too:
https://www.audiforums.com/forum/sho...d.php?t=112161