Audi A6 2.4 - anything to check or avoid?

[Wing Commander]

Just a quick one.

Friend is looking at one of these. Its a '99 S reg A6 with auto box. Just had the water pump and cambelt done, which I know can be a pig on some Audis.

Anything major to check??? A quick search didn't show me any other threads...

[Jw Vw]

My old man has the manual version from '97 R-reg - had since 2004, no problems at all, no trim rattles it's a really well built car. Aren't the auto boxes a known weak point on these?

[McSam]

I would avoid an auto box unless he spends his whole life in town or his left leg doesn't work. Seriously. The manual is nice and easy and light on these - I learnt in one, in fact! - but the auto will chew fuel and can occasionally throw up a big bill.

Suspension components, particularly in the front, are pretty much consumables so make sure the car rides quietly and smoothly - they are a very very gentle car to sit in when they're right - and if not, haggle like buggery. High miles isn't as much of a worry as missing history / lots of owners. Nice strong engine, admittedly ideal in the lighter A4 but still good.