Audi A4 - high mileage. To buy or not to buy?!

[bexsap]

Hello! I'm pondering buying a 2005 A4 Avant 2.0Tdi S-Line that has 147k and a full service history. The last vehicle I had was low mileage, one owner, full service history and a nightmare. My opinion is that is a well made car, looks great, sounds fine and drives well. But, what pitfalls could come back to bite me??!!!

[Dr G]

Not one of Audi's best engines.

What's your budget?

[va1o]

Think I'd leave it unless it was ultra cheap. As above not the best engine, the 1.9 TDI PD is bullet proof and the newer 2.0 TDI CR is proving to be strong.

I agree with your principle though, my previous daily driver had done 55k miles but was a total shed thanks to the previous owner abusing it. Replaced it with a 2 year older 95k car which has been cherished and is in immaculate condition.

[bexsap]

It's up for £4k.

[Dr G]

I would either buy the best 1.9 TDI Passat you can find (4k will buy a really good one) or stretch the budget and get a Seat Exeo which comes packing the newer 2.0 TDI CR (a much improved engine).

[gregpot2000]

As mentioned, very well known engine. it's known for having problems with the oil pump which starves the engine of oil, and requires a new engine!

[Kell]

I know three people that have owned one of these (each) from new.

Two of them have had major problems with their cars.

[andye30m3]

I bought a 3.0tdi with 134k on it, I've done another 12k or so and it's been very good, drives nicely and doesn't feel worn out at all.

[tuco12]

I would avoid at that mileage. That engine is prone to oil pump failures which has been mentioned and also balance shaft failures.

It is one of the worst engines Audi has made in recent years.

Have a look here
http://www.audi-sport.net/vb/audi-s4-a4-a4-cab-b7-...