A4 cab buying tips

[n8ckh]

Hello, I'm in the market for an A4 cab, either the 2.4 or 3.0 sport.
Are there any particular problems that I need to keep my eyes open for such as leaky roof, engine/electrical probs?

Thanks for your help.

[dansansome]

well imho the 2.4 is not an option. it is thirstier than the 3.0 (according to parkers guides) and gives the same acceleration figures as the 1.8T, it is also not as tunable. (the 1.8t can be easily remapped to around 200bhp)

http://www.whatcar.co.uk/used-car-lo...RT=2187&type=5

this guide gives some hints, but tbh its not a lot more than "make sure everything is in order"

[n8ckh]

Fuel economy isn't really an issue for me, I've had the 1.8t in a few other cars and fancied something different.

Are there any common faults I need to be aware of?

[zeratul]

I agree with Dansansome - can't see ANY advantage of the 2.4 apart from it may be cheaper insurance than the 3.0! So basically the 3.0 is your best bet.

Unless its been to Audi for servicing religiously, I wouldn't get the Multitronic gearbox because of the problems (search forum). The 3.0 is really smooth to drive and obviously goes quite well! Theres not really any problems isolated to either the 1.8, 2.4 or 3.0 (pre 06) i don't think... They all sometimes suffer from things like:
- the govebox door dampers getting quite stiff and as a consquense snap (not as cheap as you think to mend).
- the retractable boot expander lever does work as a result of cable snapped or wrongly set as the tray doesn't retract completely up flat.
- some have 16" rims on!

[n8ckh]

Full Audi history is a must for me.
Originally looked at 3 litre models but struggled to find a manual with a decent spec so thought I'd be slightly less picky!
Will change the wheels for some rs6 jobbies.

[audipersempre]

Her in doors has had a 3ltr sport for a year now. 2002 model. The only problem in all that time was the boot tray for the hood to close into. The cable broke but fortunately the tray was replaced under warranty. This has also been mentioned in this thread so must be a bit of a weak spot.

I agree on the spec. The 2002 has full electric seats where I believe the later models only had electric rake and lumbar as standard. We also got 17" alloys. Our one doesn't have cruise control which I would have liked.

Apart for it being an outstanding car the only other comment I would make is that we didn't really like any of the wood trim options and brushed aluminium wasn't available in 2002 so it would be difficult to find one. To change all of the wood trim for silver cost £1,000 through the Audi dealer. They did supply and fit for £500 for us. A lot of money but I didn't fancy the job myself and it put a huge smile on her in doors face