Hello all, new to thread and also new to the world of Audi. Ive always admired the vehicle and the beautiful lines as well as the way it drives. The vehicle i am purchasing is a 2002 A4 3.0 6 speed with bose and everything else. has around 114k on it. Im worried i already know what my dealer will say when i bring it in to get checked out before i purchase it. The timing belts i know are common problems but most of the posts ive read have been the 1.8t. how often do they need to be replaced in the 3.0 engines? are there any other issues that i should look for before purchase? thanks to all

 

hello!

 

Well, it says to replace at 105k miles, and if it hasn't been replaced already on the one you want to buy, I would make it a priority. I would just check for leaks around gaskets, make sure the axles are in good shape, oem axles run $600 a piece atleast for the 1.8t. At the mileage you're buying it at, I would expect to pay alot in maintenance. If it hasn't already been done. I just bought a 05 1.8tqt and I've spent atleast $2000 on maintenance already and I've only had it for 6 months. All preventative though, it hasn't broken down.

 

That 105k mile timing interval has long since been amended. You should be changing it (and all associated parts) every 60-65k miles. It's due now either way. If you need drive axles for some reason, Raxles, America's premier supplier of OE quality CV Axles and CV joints - Raxles Inc. is a great source.

 

^ True, I replaced both my front axles for $400. Way better than the $1200 I was quoted. Can't beat lifetime warranty either.

 

I bought a 2003 A4 3.0 MT6 for my daughter 4 years ago with 69k miles. At 79k I brought it in for the coilack recall and they ended up replacing both cats under warranty (I was suspicious, but it cost me nothing). Other than a continuous CEL from the clutch pedal interlock (replaced twice), it has been very reliable and is now at about 102k. BTW, we did the TB at 90k which is about the point I do them on both Audis. 60-65k is way too early but 114k is dangerous if it has not been done.

The only negative I have read is letting the 3.0 run low on oil which could cause damage to the camshafts and valve train. Not easy to check out without a partial tear down which is too expensive.