surferchic

I'm curious about the ramifications of not adhering to the proper break-in procedure. I purchased a loaner so I highly doubt that the necessary process has occurred. I realized this before buying but I'm still wondering what might be in store and if there's anything I can do to alleviate any damage.. I did blow an ignition coil but I heard that's a common malfunction for Audi.

Thanks.

2006 A4 2.0 Quattro 5000 Miles

DaveJJ

the break in period (among other things) is to allow the piston ring to be "sanded" by the cylinder wall so they could provide tight seal. Because both cylinder wall and the ring surface has the highest friction during the initial miles, you are supposed to minimize the pressure that goes into it. Now that's not to say that if it weren't broken-in properly you'll automatically have improper seal. However if you do have problems it'll relate to oil. If the rings aren't sealing properly, not only it will decrease its effectiveness to scrape oil off of the cylinder wall (leaving oil behind during your ignition [combustion] cycle in your four stroke stages), the contaminated gas (formed after your ignition [combustion] cycle) will more likely to by-pass the rings and contaminate your oil. This leads anywhere from decrease in power, premature oil consumption (worse if you have turbo), detonation, and or leaks. We're talkin worst case scenerio here so don't get frightened just yet (chances are you probably won't succumb to anything above). I'd keep an eye out for your oil condition.

06Avant

Good info, thx. What should you look for in oil?

surferchic

thanks dave, will keep a look-out.

DaveJJ

if you just do the basics you'd probably be okay. First check your oil level time to time. Make sure it does not go below the min bar on your dip stick. And watch if the level of oil decrease unusually. If it does you probably have a leak somewhere. Second, check the pigment. We all know what clean oil looks like, so just check that the oil isn't burning quickly. This may be a result of the issues I listed above. Go to the dealer and have it resolved (or if your like me, do the work yourself). Although if your still under warrenty I recommend having it done by Audi to avoid complications later.

RichAA

How are you liking the car so far?

zerinS4

Engines are built to such tight tolerances that break-in isn't as important as it used to be. I'm a firm believer in breaking in your car the way you will normally drive the car. I broke mine in fairly agressively and I have never had a single problem with oil consumption, economy, and certainly not power. Again, it used to have an effect but not so much anymore.

You'll be fine.

P-Nasty

iminan Audi loaner right now,and get it for a week while they replace my ECM. After knowing how I drive this loaner, I would never buy one. I guess if it is still under warrenty, you should be fine though.

surferchic

smooth ride, impressive handling, solid performance all around. quattro rocks.