Excited newbie here...

I test drove a 2000 s4 with 94700mi on it. I dont think the timing belt or water pump has been replaced yet since there are no official records stating so. The mechanic told me that the recommended replacement should be at 104000mi and he couldnt tell whether the belt had been replaced or not. He advised me to get it replaced just to be sure.
I am so excited about this car , it drives great, looks great and feels great inside. Only thing, I'm super scared about something crapping out on my once I buy it.

From what I'm reading in the forum posts, I need to ensure that the Timing belt, Idler roller, Tensioner Roller and Water Pump are in good condition. Is there anything else you advise I should keep a look out for?

How much can I expect to spend on this total, including labour and does anyone have any recommendations for where I can get it done in the Berkeley, CA area? And also, how much of a difference does it really make if I got this work done at an Audi garage as opposed to an Audi/German car specialist?
Final question, where can I buy parts if I want to supply them myself? (Timing belt, Idler roller, Tensioner Roller and Water Pump) Any recommendations in the Berkeley Area?

I haven't yet bought the car but I hope to soon! I'm really excited.
Thank you!!!

 

Most T-belt jobs will cost about 1000$ at the dealer maybe $1,300. I would find a good German car specialist with all the computers. Make sure he has Vag-Com or a modus with the European package. A good place for maintnance and performance parts is

www.ECStuning.com

 

As for looking out for other stuff it's kinda hard to see or tell. Other things that happen a lot throttle body boots (TBB) or cv joints rip, maybe look for a head gasket leak of some small oil, I hope they don't sell you it with that like they did me....Bug them till they put new brakes or tires on or something haha you know normal car buying. By the way how much and what colour? You should probably be paying 11,000 + or - maybe more towards the -.

 

95k... have 3 to 5 g'salways availablein case your turbos let go.

 

If you can make it down to San Jose there's a shop that works on our cars all the time (DynoSpotRacing). They have been really good in my experiences there. I think I was quoted $700 for labor, then buy the Ultimate Timing Belt Kit from ESC $345. I'm just about to do the same thing on mine. Good Luck

 

Take it to a independent Audi shop & do a PPI on the car.

Yes, the TB job will be NEEDED, & should be the 1st thing you do.

Read the FAQ on what to look for & what to expect, it's a great car, you just got to take care of it.

 

Thank you all for your help. I have been quoted $1450, 1500 and 1500 by 3 places for doing the job.
I would love to drive down to San Jose to do the job however its too much of a hassle, especially from Berkeley! Given its a whole day job, I'd rather do it close to home instead of 40 mi away.