I'm currently looking at a 1996 a4 quattro. I do believe it's the 2.8 and it has 160k on the odometer. I drove a jeep from 200k to 250k so I know some about working on high mileage vehicles. I don't know a whole lot about Audis but i've always liked the look of them and I'm in the market for an all wheel drive vehicle anyway. Is there anything I should be looking for? I know repairs on audis are expensive but what about do it yourself people. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Having owned a honda, subarus, an 80's corvette (with tons of problems) and a couple jeeps, I think the audi is the most problematic based on threads on AF. Of course my opinion may be a bit biased due to having the ignition cylinder go out 15 minutes after buying the car, then noticing a broken spring less than a week later, and having an oil temp gauge be broken from the beginning, on a seemingly impeccably maintained car.

At least I KNEW my corvette was a pile of junk when I bought it! The jeeps and subarus have been the least problematic, but the fit and finish wasn't as nice as the audi.

And I, my husband, or FIL do all the wrenching, so maintenance and repairs are obviously less costly than if I took it to a shop.

 

Read the FAQ sticky at the top of the forum - it'll fill you in.

 

Well read the newbie guide, which is stickied at the top of the B5 page. A well maintained 2.8 can go for 400k miles before needing a rebuild; but that's a well maintained one. Look for tie rod ends, CV boots, control arms, timing belt, cam tensioner, water pump, etc. Just read the newbie and it'll tell you what's up.

 

Ok, I read it now. So basically if I have the elbow grease and the money then it's as worth it as I want it to be.

 

Yep, pretty much. If you're looking for a nice car with a nice ride, and something to keep you occupied fixing on the weekends....you've picked the right vehicle.

 

I'm at 215k miles, on a 2001.5 1.8TQM and just starting to think about building it. i have had since 100k miles and not had any major issues. Never replaced a part that wasnt designed to wear out over time. Good luck to you!!