Extremely interested in finding a 97 1.8T What should I be aware of?
05-23-2001, 08:39 AM
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Extremely interested in finding a 97 1.8T What should I be aware of?
Hello all,
For the past month I have been thinking about getting an A4- Once an idea has now turned into almost an obsession, and I've decided on trying to locate a 97 1.8T. Now I know a lot of you will try to steer me towards the 98, but unfortunately I cannot afford one in my current budget- I've seen 97's go for anywhere around $12k and up, which is more in my league.
So... My question is... What should I be looking for, problem wise with a 97 1.8T? I know there were some revisions made from 97 to 98, though I am not sure if that was to replace a problem prone component or to simply improve upon a design that wasn't optimal for performance and function?
Also... Should I be wary of a 97 A4 listed for $12k or less? I have seen a few in the $11k price range, though I am not sure if those people priced their car low to move it for a reason?
Anyhow... I thank you in advance for any help or advice you can give me on this. If there is a FAQ for specifically the 97 1.8, can someone please provide a URL for it?
Thanks!!
Randy Shibata
For the past month I have been thinking about getting an A4- Once an idea has now turned into almost an obsession, and I've decided on trying to locate a 97 1.8T. Now I know a lot of you will try to steer me towards the 98, but unfortunately I cannot afford one in my current budget- I've seen 97's go for anywhere around $12k and up, which is more in my league.
So... My question is... What should I be looking for, problem wise with a 97 1.8T? I know there were some revisions made from 97 to 98, though I am not sure if that was to replace a problem prone component or to simply improve upon a design that wasn't optimal for performance and function?
Also... Should I be wary of a 97 A4 listed for $12k or less? I have seen a few in the $11k price range, though I am not sure if those people priced their car low to move it for a reason?
Anyhow... I thank you in advance for any help or advice you can give me on this. If there is a FAQ for specifically the 97 1.8, can someone please provide a URL for it?
Thanks!!
Randy Shibata
05-23-2001, 08:52 AM
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Yes, that should be replaced no later than 60,000 miles, if it hasn't been....
....factor in an additional $450 or so for the parts and labor to update it to the latest version.
05-23-2001, 08:55 AM
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Be aware that the 1997 and early 1998 1.8T engines can have an issue with....
...a broken wastegate rod on the turbo, which necessitates changine out the entire turbo "unit". Mine broke around the 22,000 mile mark and I rec'd a new turbo (along with an updated turbo oil-line heat-shield; and a new turbo oil-line) under warranty.
Unfortunately, as far as I know, there is no way to tell by looking at the turbo or the wastegate if the A4 in question has the original one or not. This is where service records would be very nice to have.
Unfortunately, as far as I know, there is no way to tell by looking at the turbo or the wastegate if the A4 in question has the original one or not. This is where service records would be very nice to have.
05-23-2001, 08:59 AM
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The Kelly Blue Book site pegs my '97 A4 value between $15k and $18k.....
....this with 68,000 miles and in excellent physical/mechanical condition.
05-23-2001, 09:03 AM
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Don't forget control arms..
Many (myself included) have had squeaky control arm bushings...it's not a danger, however is quite annoying. On any '97 you drive, listen at slow speeds while steering and going over bumps for a creaking/squeaking...sounds like it's in the dash. Good luck..
Andy
Andy
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05-23-2001, 09:12 AM
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Have a professional mechanic look at the drive seals if it is a quattro
check for "seepage"...if it has any...have the dealer replace them BEFORE u buy the car.
You'll be better of if you buy an "audi assured" used A4....you'll pay more, but, you get the balance of the factory warranty from the car's in service date. Look for a used A4 that was in service between 6-97 to 12-97....so you can have at least a one-year warranty.
Trust me...this has come in handy several times. Paying $50 for a 300-600 repair is worth it!!
You'll be better of if you buy an "audi assured" used A4....you'll pay more, but, you get the balance of the factory warranty from the car's in service date. Look for a used A4 that was in service between 6-97 to 12-97....so you can have at least a one-year warranty.
Trust me...this has come in handy several times. Paying $50 for a 300-600 repair is worth it!!
05-23-2001, 09:34 AM
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FYI....Sport Package was different....
'97 was the only year where the Sport Package option did NOT include suspension upgrades.
The package included:
16in 5-spoke wheels with all-season tires
3 spoke Sport steering wheel
Sport seats with "Jacquard Satin" fabric
The package included:
16in 5-spoke wheels with all-season tires
3 spoke Sport steering wheel
Sport seats with "Jacquard Satin" fabric