I have an A4 (2.8L) with 222K on it. I am not sure if the clutch has ever been done on the car. It has had two other owners besides me, both fairly wealthy people that got all the work done certified Audi. If that matters.

The clutch feels fine, two mechanics have recently told me it felt fine and I don't have anything to noticeably worry about.... but that it still could go at anytime without a warning.

I see one on ebay for $179, it's a new clutch kit.

Should I replace it even thou it hasn't gone? tough question I am sure no one can answer... I get a tax return in a few days and a guy said he would charge $450 to install it so I may do it just to be at ease... since the car really doesn't need anything else (timing belt done a year ago)

Lastly, maybe someone can make a recommendation for a clutch since I want to drive this car to the ground (literally- I am having fun trying to see how many miles I can get out of it before it croaks)... I don't need anything special, just durable.

Link to the $179
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/98-01...Q5fAccessories

 

if you want durability and quality in a clutch, most likely you are not gonna find it on ebay, although there are some exceptions.
if you really want durability go with OEM or if you want a bit more performance and still want durability SOUTHBEND is the way to go?
and unless your clutch is not slipping i would not change it...just milk it and save up some cash and get a better quality clutch like the ones i mentioned...