^^ +1

Keep in mind, however, that it's usually not the belt that breaks, but rather the idlers and rollers that seize up, causing the belt to break. I would definitely have that job done before 80k miles, or sooner if the belt starts looking like it's in rough shape.

 

I'm more than a bit skeptical about that last comment; replacing the Timing Belt on the 2.8 liter engine requires a special tool to lock the cams in place, just as does the 3.0 liter engine. If a mechanic says one needs it and one doesn't; then it's time to find a new mechanic.

 

I did my daughter's A4 3.0L last winter with 90k. My indie shop charged $1100 parts and labor, and book labor was 7.5 hours. My concern is 9year old coolant, t-stat, water pump, etc. In 9 years, normal mileage is 90-110. I think the Dirty Harry quote says it all. Just keep in mind if something snaps or seizes, your engine is toast. Also, while it does take a special clamp, you should not be buying it for your shop. He needs to bury it in his hourly rate so all his 2.8/3.0 customers pay for it.

 

Thanks for the additional feedback, guys. I went ahead and replaced it at the independent shop a few months ago - I always trusted the independent shop more than Audi, however, from the time Audi told me I needed to replace it, I couldn't enjoy driving my car anymore because of the concern of my engine becoming worthless in a second. I made the decision that it would be smart to replace it at 70-75k no matter what, and since I was planning on keeping my car to that mileage, why not just go ahead and get it out of the way and enjoy driving my car.

The shop I took it to charged between $1500-$1700 to do the timing belt and everything else Audi was going to do as a part of the job. Audi quoted me $2500 for the same work. All in all, I am very happy with how my car has been driving since (it seems to be idling smoother, but that could just be my imagination) and I am happy to have the expense behind me. My concern now is how long my transmission control module will hold up. If that bust any time soon, I may look back and wish I traded in the A4 for something else - I just spoke to Audi North America about this last week, and to no one's surprise they didn't seem overly concerned about the issue. I love my Audi, but between the horrible Austin Audi dealer and my view of Audi as a corporation, I would be shocked if I ever buy another.

Once again, thanks for all the input!

 

Peace of mind is worth a lot, too. Now you can relax, more or less, and enjoy driving your Audi. Until the next thing breaks.