MisterK

I'm pushing about 75k on my '97 A4 1.8T and I wanted to get my timing belt changed. I was hoping somebody could suggest a honest and reliable shop in the Seattle area (I live on Capitol Hill but work in Bothell) I could go to for the work.

I'm a fairly new Audi owner (since August) and I'm hoping to find someplace I can continue to go to for maintenance and mods.

Couple other questions:
1) I had to get my radiator flushed recently after finding out my water/antifreeze ratio was off and supposedly they found "black gunk" all in my radiator for unknown reasons. Mechanics suggested I flush it 3-4 times to be sure it all gets out. Anybody hears of this? Anomaly?

2) I got an estimate from the same mechanic for getting my timing belt replaced. I think they quoted me $500 or so which seemed reasonable. However they were also trying to sell me on replacing the tensioner at the same time (saying I would have to do it eventually anyways and I could save $$$ on the labor if they did it with the timing belt). Is that really nescessary or were they just trying to gouge me?

Thanks for any and all replys!

-Tony

dejavu

I have a 97 2.8 w/ about 65K, let me know what you find out, about to change the belt too.

Clout

make sure they use the updated one. I would suggest also doing the water pump and thermostat while they are in there.

CK NYoC

how do you know if its updated or not?

avantaholic13

look up K&M automotive in Kirkland. Kinnon is an Audi-phile! he has had an A4 & an S4.

Clout

if the mechanic is at all competant he will get it, I would just mention it to make sure.

MisterK

Thanks for the advice!