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Are A4's easy to have?

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Old 08-28-2002, 10:53 PM
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Default Are A4's easy to have?

I am considering to get rid of my Ford Taurus and get some Class for myself; get a European car. But people say that European cars cost you big $$ when it comes to servicing and parts and so on.. and I'm not rich or anything. I was thinking about an A4, maybe 5-6 years old..do you think those craps that people say would also concern A4? Like how much a year you have to spend on it..
Thank you for helping me out.
Old 08-28-2002, 11:01 PM
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No offense, but you drive a Ford. In terms of reliability/cost, anything is a huge step up.
Old 08-28-2002, 11:12 PM
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Default how you know I can't take a huge step?

I said I'm not rich, didn't say I'm poor!!
Old 08-28-2002, 11:25 PM
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i think he was saying that fords are POS and you're better off any way you go
Old 08-28-2002, 11:25 PM
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Default I think he just meant that, compared to a Ford, a car created for the masses

of course parts/maintenance will cost more.

If you compare American cars to European cars, you'll probably notice the American cars break more often. Not necessarily break down, but a handle here, crack there etc. European cars will last longer but when something does go wrong, both parts and labor are much more expensive.

There are a few known problem areas. On earlier A4s the control arms are known weak points, and left unchecked the timing belt will snap after 60K miles. Other than that, these cars will last a long time.

We really can't say what's right for you. As auto enthusiasts we are biased, and we are more than willing to spend a few extra dollars for the driving experience.

Mike
Old 08-28-2002, 11:31 PM
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Thanks for informative mess.
Old 08-28-2002, 11:37 PM
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np
Old 08-29-2002, 03:02 AM
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Default Re: Are A4's easy to have?

no, there is way too much maintenence required. If you don't have a warranty you're SOL. Well at least I am
Old 08-29-2002, 03:04 AM
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Default Ford --> Audi

The last car I drove before I got my A4 was a Taurus. The A4 is definitely a nicer car and a pleasure to drive, but as far as running costs, my car is under warranty and all I have paid for is more insurance and using premium gas, in addition to my car payment.

A 5 or 6 year old car should already have its timing belt changed probably, which is one of the more expensive but very necessary things that has to be done to an Audi around 50,000-60,000 miles. (Otherwise major damage is done to the engine when the timing belt goes out.)
Old 08-29-2002, 03:21 AM
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Default As long as you adjust your expectations, you'll be okay.

Getting a 5-6 year old European car (or any used European car) is an expensive proposition. If you want something better than what you have, but reliable, go Japanese. If you still want a step up, Audi makes some great cars, but be prepared to spend money on repairs. Things break, and the parts and labor to get them fixed won't be cheap.


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