Hey all -

Couple related questions for you. My '04 A4 has reached 35,000 miles (bought it used a couple months ago with ridiculously low mileage on it). The maintenance schedule, so far, has been followed and stamped by the Audi dealership where it was originally bought. As I'm out of factory warranty, how important is it to have the maintenance done at a dealership, or can I basically take it to any mechanic now?

The other (related) question, is for a recommendation in the Baltimore area. I just moved into the area and have no idea where to go! If you're going to recommend a dealership, it's sortof important to me to get either a loaner or shuttle service (can't really deal without a car for a day).

I've searched the forum, and found a bunch of recommendations for performance upgrades and such, but need an honest, affordable place for just run-of-the-mill services.

Thanks in advance for your help!!

- Brad

 

No input... really?

 

you can take the car anywhere as long as the shop knows what they are doing. Most of the scheduled maintenances are an oil change plus inspections. the oil changes are just like any other cars, but be sure to use synthetic. Also, make sure the shop knows our cars pretty much use special fluids for everything. If they dont know that to begin with you may want to continue your search for a mechanic.

All dealers ive ever been to provide loaner cars.

 

Bases on the maintenance schedule, the only really big things other than oil changes are the timing belt, air/cabin filters, and in the case of the CVT, the transmission service. I would think, as long as you do the oil changes and what not on time, you should be okay.

Also, know this, that the air filters are really cheap ~ 30ish dollars, so you can replace them on you own.

http://microsites.audiusa.com/my09/l...enance2004.pdf

 

I've found that the shops that are familiar with Audi are just as expensive as the dealer so I have stayed with my dealer, and he has responded with reasonable pricing.

Regular service is critical. Wherever you get it done, make sure it gets done.