These famous turbo failures...well, I'm interested in getting an 01 S4, with around 40k miles. But before I buy, I want to take it to an independant to check over the vehicle. Would they be able to spot the turbo problems before they end up costing $$ for replacement? Also, how can I tell its an 01.5? Including what part of the VIN this is indicated in.

 

The dealer isnt a phycic, they cant tell you when they are going to blow, its all a matter of how they have been treated in the past and present. If they havent been pushed hard, and ur engine has had oil, they will last a long time, but if they have been pushed hard nonstop, they will go a lot sooner. 40k is really low for a 4-5 year old car, so that is really good miles to get it at.

 

Well, they can see if the throttle body boot, f hose, and bpvs are in good condition still? Any how about that vin number?

 

if u want to see if its 01 or 01.5 look at the badge. If the S4 is off the red flag its 01.5 if its in the small badge (liek red flag then 2 silver stipes with s4 in them) its 01 or 00.

 

To make sure mostly, if u got it used, look at the steering wheel badge. A previos owner could have switched the front and rear badge to the new style if they liked the look of it better (i would have [8D])

 

thanks guys, yeah, I learned about the S4 difference in appearance after some searching around. I wonder how many 01s are 01.5.

 

Im pretty sure its around half. I dont think they did the changes at the end of teh 01 year b/c then they would have just relased a 02 early.

 

Well, they made the changes before 11/00, but I don't know when they started or stopped the 01 production.

edit: looks like I'll be getting an 01.5 sometime soon, just gotta find one at the right price. How much should I get for a clean sedan manual, 40k miles, excellent condition, certified?

 

http://nogaroblue.com/index2.html
or
http://www.s4biturbo.com/
these sites will be able to answer alot of ur questions including the build tally for the B5 s4 on the 2nd site.