Hey guys
Im currently trying to sell my 03 subaru wrx so i can buy a 2005 s4. My friend turned me on to audis a few months ago and since then I havent been able to get them off my mind. Looking for a 6 speed MT, either black or white. Dont really have any intention of modding it too much because its already faster than any car Ive ever driven. Probably gonna throw on some BBS's and coilovers first. Then maybe a full exhaust but that'll probably be it.

Are there any things that I need to look for when buying one? Definitely going to look for a stock/low miles one for sure. But should I take it to a mechanic? Im not all that knowledgeable when it comes to Audis, Subarus have taken up alot of my time the past few years and I havent really looked into much else.

Also, is the maintenance as bad as people make it out to be? I mean when I tell people Im buying an Audi they say "Ahh how are you going to afford to maintain it??" Money isnt a huge issue because I have a really good job, but I am still In college and do have other expenses to worry about.

Im trying to find a car with less than 60k miles. Is there a magical number that these cars typically go till on the odometer? I mean when it comes to Subarus, typically a motor will last anywhere from 125k-150k depending on how well you kept it. I just spent $5,000 rebuilding my suby motor and dont want to do it again, especially with an Audi.

If you can share any secrets about buying or looking at these cars it would be great.

Thanks for your help guys I really do appreciate it.
My name is Colton by the way and Im from Sacramento, CA.

 

damn didnt realize a lot of my questions were already answered in the FAQ thread, sorry guys. But 43 views and no replies?

 

I cannot speak to the '05s but I can tell you that you will not get the same experience from an Audi as you do from the Subaru. I went from an Impreza 2.5RS (still a current member of NASIOC) to my 2000 S4 Stage 2. IT was like going from a shack to the White House. The feel is more solid, everything is fitted better, cheap plastic is felt at a minimum, and it just feels more solid over all. The interior on my Audi after nearly 10 years is waaaaay better than it was on my scoobie after 10 months. And the drive? whoa.

BUT..

Maintenance costs will at least double, and major costs will be around triple, and be more frequent according to the general consensus. What you used to spend on parts and labor you will spend even more on only parts now. I don't know the maintenance schedule on the 2005, but I know for my B5 at 75,000 miles the manufacturer suggests you change the timing belt. I was just quoted $1,600 by a local respected Audi/VW shop. It it is $400 for a complete kit alone to do it yourself. That is something I don't remember having to deal with on my Subaru.

Of course the crankiest are usually the loudest so it may only seem that there are more issues than there really are. I for example have had mine for 1.5 years at stage 2 with not a single problem. Of course I do not drive it like I stole it either, which I get the feeling from most on many Audi boards is the ONLY to drive these cars and anyone who thinks otherwise is considered....weird. But it comes at a hefty price.

Would I go back to my Subaru? Hell no. I wouldn't go to an STI over my B5. If you are looking for lower maint. cost, but more luxury than you have albeit less potential, check the BMW X designated cars. I drive my boss's from time to time and it is really nice.... I still think my B5 is better, and it is definitely faster though.

 

as pertaining to the quote on the timing belt change... dude, the market is so competitive at the moment, even the best shop in town will cut prices just to make business. don't settle for the highest price. my 02 s4 timing belt change, i got the local dealer down to $1000 parts and labor. they are willing to do what it takes to keep any kind of revenue coming to their shop, even if it means only charging $60 an hour. now is the time to have work done to your car! cause you can have it done for a decent price. as for getting that S4, dude, get the car. you will have your moments when you question why you spend so much money to keep your audi working. but when you drive around in your buddies ricer and feel like your driving in a tin can, its because you are driving in a tin can. i had a subaru before this car... i will never go back.

 

The '05 doesn't have a timing belt - it's a chain and supposedly doesn't need replacing until about 100K, if ever. If you do have to change it, though, the price is hefty. I can tell you that my '05.5 has had its share of issues, but luckily most were under warranty. Audis are known for electrical issues; I've had a headlight replaced, window switch, seat memory unit, stereo head unit, etc. Also, given that you live in Sacto, you'll end up replacing control arms, bearings, CVs or some combination of the above. There is a known issue with the coils that they issued a recall on.

All that said, it's the best car I've owned and will likely get another Audi when I'm done with this one. The interior is superior to any bimmer IMO. It's a heavy car but with that you got a very solid ride.

By the way, get a B7 over a B6. It's a matter of taste but I like the body style more.

Oh, and good call on the BBSs and coilovers. Just be aware that the RGRs (19 x 8.5 - see signature) rub like a bitch.

 

From what I'm told, if you take care of it, these cars will treat you right. I have every intention of babying this car. Also, what kind of gas mileage do you guys get? Ive heard as low as 9-13 from some people and 16-18 from others. I dont drive like a retard, maybe that would be a factor. Car would be driven on the freeway daily to get to work and school but would still have its share of city driving.

 

17 mpg if you take it easy

 

found a black 05 with 50k miles still under warrany, bone stock for sale 20k obo. Gonna go take a look/test drive this weekend hopefully and talk some numbers. So excited!