Hey everyone. I just bought a 2004 a4 1.8t quattro lastnight with 48,000 miles on it. This is my first audi and just wondering how to take care of it as far as when to do oil changes, what kind of gas, and any other upkeep i should know. I have read that you should change the timing belt/water pump at 75,000 miles but have also read 90,000. Which one would you recommend?? I have seen several DIY instructions on how to do it, my fiance is good at mechanical things is this something he could do or recommended to bring it in? I have seen so many bad reviews I'm just worried I made a mistake. The upkeep on it has been well maintained thus far with the previous owners, they replaced all coils? and replaced secondary air pump. Any help is appreciated!

 

Willkommen to the forums!

be sure to spend some time in the A4 section. Read the stickies. Lots of good information there.

you should change the timing belt as soon as possible. Even though your mileage is low, your car is "old" enough that it should be done. the main issue with the variation in the timing service recommendation is because, the water pumps were failing early, causing the valve train in the engine to eat itself. I believe the original recommendation from Audi was 105K miles. then they lowered it, twice IIRC. Most folks started doing 80K just to be on the safe side. a timing failure WILL ruin your engine.

Your fiance should have no trouble doing the job. it is tedious and time consuming, but if you can turn a wrench, you can do it. Paying to have it done is always an option, but the labor costs will be prohibitive (see tedious and time consuming)

Full synthetic oil change every 3-5K miles will high quality filter.

91 octane fuel. you can use cheaper but your mileage will suffer. it isn't worth it

good folks in the A4 section. some real 1.8T gurus there. post there for further questions (if you cant find it answered already)

good luck with the car

have fun

-not an expert, just an enthusiast