I know I cannot ask for advice or direction, but I do hope to benefit from collective wisdom on this forum (incidentally, if this is not the right place to post, please let me know too).

The car has a bit over 60,000 miles and is in top cosmetic condition (my wife drives it). Two major problems: front rod broke, and the ABS control unit repaired, both about 1-1.5 years ago.

Two days ago, the engine light came on. The mechanic just called with three options: a) reset; b) replace oxygen sensor (about $250); c) replace catalytic convertor (one from Audi is about $1200, aftermarket one is about $500).

He has also found that the right front wheel wobbles slightly and suggested a bad tire rod; (we asked him to check the suspension because the car started making moaning sounds).

Earlier, he has suggested we replace the timing belt plus other associated stuff - if we plan to keep the car. The total would be about $1200.

If we go forward with all of the above, the total cost of repairs will be between $2-$3K. And it may likely be not the end but the beginning of the end. Hence, the question:

Is it reasonable to assume that we may face an average of 3-5K per year in repairs for the next three years? I am simply not familiar with the record of 9-12 y.o. Audi A4. If the answer is yes and we decide to buy a new car, what is the reputation of new AWD A4 non-turbo models?

TIA,
Boris

 

the brand new V6 A4s are immaculate. if you have the funds, you should definitely go for it.

as far as fixing the car, it has super low mileage and is probably still worth about 8-9k. the timing belt suggestion is legit. ask the mechanic what exactly what code came up. also an aftermarket catalytic converter does not cost 500. neither does an 02 sensor. you should shop around a bit, i've heard plenty of people getting a full timing belt job done for 900. if you have a V6 right now, i don't think repairs will cost 2-3k for the next three years. what the mechanic listed above are common problems with these cars. the only things not listed about are front control arms, wheels bearings, rear suspension springs and front cv shafts. the items i just listed will eventually go bad on your car but doubtfully in the next 2-3 years but it is possible. most 2000 A4s these days have over 100k on the clock and those are the problems associated with them.

 

Thank you, hiwords, for your reply. I appreciate it very much. Since my lower back started acting just as soon as I posted the question three days ago, I decided that DIY will be someone else’s joy and challenge. I will put ithe car on ‘Audi Marketplace’ as soon as I have a few pictures taken. It is in a pretty good shape (56,250 miles) and kbb.com suggests $8640-$9140.