buying a a4 avant tdi sport.

[scott.f]

hi all.
im new to this
im going to look at a a4 avent tdi sport 54 plate 140,000 mile.
any tips on what I should look for or anything that should make me walk away from it?

I was thinks of getting a fault reader http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/autel-al319-entry-level-vehicle-diagnostic-tool-n80nj
is this a good idea? if so will this one be ok? and where is the obd port?

thanks scott

 

[DieselJake]

You going for a 2.5 or 1.9? Check the arches for any rust if it's a later model as they're prone to it

 

[scott.f]

1.9.
just seen the fault reader is discontinued

 

[john777w]

Check when the cambelt was last changed!

 

[Mike B]

They lack some of the SE features and are alittle harder ride.A Quattro would be nice

 

[S4_dan]

VCDS is the only diagnostic reader I would use on a VAG car. Check for FSH or part SH. Make sure there are receipts for any work done not just a stamp in the book. Camblet, waterpump and tensioners are worth checking to see if recently replaced.

Check the arches for rust, feel if the car wonders.....can be £400+ for full new front suspension arms.
If manual, check for clutch bite feel on pedal, if high, counter in a price for a new clutch.

But like buying any car, give it a thorough check over. Gearbox etc, etc. There are buyers guides if you google search or search this forum.

 

[mattyboyc]

Most A4's will bite high but do check for vibration on pull away as this could point towards flywheel and that coupled with a clutch will cost you around the £6-700 mark, feel under passenger seat for a dry floor as if this is wet it will point towards a blocked pendulum chamber and that leads to water getting into the CCM Which will result in you vehicle electrics having a mind of their own, the B6's are getting on a bit now so will obviously show it's age.
The 1.9 is generally a bomb proof engine and gearbox and you will often see ones with 200k + on the clock and still going strong, just be warned that if you will be requiring interior parts Audi have discontinued most of the trim prices now as I found out to my disgust so you will be relying on the second hand market.
Hope you find what you want and enjoy it they are great cars.

 

[DieselJake]

6 speed is a stronger box too, wish I had 6 speed. Clutch and turbo are the expensive bits, if the engine's rocking a fair bit the engine mounts have probably gone which will be £100+, you'll probably want to get rid of or clean the EGR too. Fairly solid in the engine department, I'd be more concerned with aesthetics and optional extra's.