Newbie looking to buy A4 Avant

[cma]

Hi all,

Looking to buy myself an early A4 Avant 2litre Diesel (143bhp) S-Line model. Probably one I've seen that was reg'd in July 2009

What things should I look out for?

I'll be looking to tow a caravan with it at some point in the future, so anything I should be aware of around that?

Any common faults or niggles that I can negotiate the price down on?

Off to test drive one at the local dealership tonight to see what they are like. Any pointers welcome.

Cheers

Rob

[c.grex]

I sure there is something about you may need to upgrade your cooling fan if you fit a tow bar! think 2009 and cars had the bigger fan already. It maybe something you need to check out.

[theskyfox]

Only thing I'd say really...I don't mean to put a spanner in the works by saying this, but test drive the 2.0TDi 170bhp model too. Had a test drive of both the 140 and 170 a while back and the performance difference was actually surprising. Additionally, the MPG of the 170 is actually marked down as *better* than the 140. I'd also imagine that having an extra 30bhp would actually be pretty handy for caravan towing too...

-Andrew

[cma]

Thanks for the replies. The 170 is out of my league price wise and insurance wise only just stretching to the s-line. So 143 it is, poss remap later on if funds allow.

The fan/cooling upgrade sounds important, will have to do some research on that, thanks.

[markp306]

Search other posts on this forum for DMF issues on this engine. Is your insurance limiting you 143ps regardless of model?

[cma]

Insurance and purchase price stop me going for the 170, unless I want a high miler...

The cooling issue is concerning me massivly as i will need to tow a 'van but dont fancy a £2k bill just to fit a £50 piece of metal...might have to look at other marques if Audis are a ball ache to get a tow bar on :(