6 speed TDi buying info required

[yaz7005]

Hi there, looking to buy an A4 circa 2001-2004 I've heard several stories a regarding the 6 speed transaxle final drive bearings giving up at relativley low milages, sorry model will be aTDi possibly a Quattro

Anyone shed any light on which were affected etc

Any other majors to look out for too,

thanks

I've posted in B5 and B6 since it's on the cross over years;)

[miniredcooper]

Hey Yaz,
can only speak from my experiences on two relevant cars an 03 1.9tdi (130) Quattro SE Saloon and a 54 1.9tdi (130)Quattro Sport Avant. (also had a 02 A3 tdi quattro sport) all with six speed box.
I have taken both the A4's from circa 65,000 to circa 115,000 miles and never had any problems. Incidentally for what it is worth the A3 is the same - nice tight box although this one is only on 76K. The a4 saloon I'd known from new - had been a company hack before I bought it. Had all receipts/full service histories on all the cars and never any issue with engine/box or transmission on record. I find them great to drive and the six speed box a pleasure to use.
Maybe a few unfortunate experiences from other drivers - I have found that provided regularly serviced this engine and box just keeps going. My Avant has just started to slip the clutch very slightly on it's original clutch at 115K so can't really complain.
IMO these are great machines go out and get one but make sure it has been well serviced.
Others may have different experience but mine is all good.
Happy hunting.

[warp_speed]

I agree, after having an automatic car for a few years it was a pleasure to use a manual gearbox again, especially a 6 gear one. My gearbox can be a bit tight but I guess its because its only done 32k. I think the sports model also has closer gear ratios, so don't expect low revs in top gear..... maybe its just my model