Hello! I am thinking of buying a 99 A4 1.8T avant (manual) with 70Kmiles, no service records except clean Carfax record. I've never bought a vehicle that old, so I am a bit skeptical, but financially it makes sense at this time to me. I've owned an A4 TDI before (in Germany) and had a positive experience, but sold it before it got old.
Beyond well known issues like timing belt issues (1.8T)and CV boot/joint problem, do readers of the forum have any advice or recommendations what trouble spots to watch out for? Thank you for your help.

 

sometimes rack and pinions go out, but if maintanence has been kept up then you should be in good shape.

 

Thanks!

 

You will probably need to replace the tie rod ends and axles.

 

70k is old for you!?!!?!? Make sure you do a good test drive / inspection. See if the previous owner can tell you about any maintenence that they've done, make sure to take it on the interstate to make sure it doesnt make any funny noises and test out the cruise control. Also make sure there is no engine oil sludge.