1.8TS Not as smooth a ride as it was

[benk]

I've put 35k miles on my 1.8TS since buying it, and it has now done 72k miles.
Problem is it doesn't feel as smooth as nice to drive as it used to - not just over bumps and around corners, but also in terms of gear changes, etc.
Changes between 1st and 2nd were always a bit of a dog, but now it feels like I have to mix clutch and gas exactly right or the engine will either "gag" slightly (causing a jerky change), or I'm slipping the clutch.

As far as bumps, etc go, I had the front ARB bushes done about 5k miles ago and it made the front of the car feel tighter, better on corners, and the creaking went away. Now it's back, and I still find that travelling over even smooth speedbumps is has me grimacing slightly... most cars soak them up with no problem (e.g. my wife's civic), but the A3 suspension doesn't seem to like it much.

Have others had similar things happen around this mileage? Is there any easy maintenance that might need to be done to suspension at next service for example?

Many thanks,
B

 

[Khufu]

Are we all decided that a new uprated dog mount is better, once it has bedded in? My car is standard but I do feel the engine moves about a bit trying to get away fast from a junction.

 

[imported_jimbogrey]

Same Problem here .i.e. jerkiness when lifting.. the guys at my local garage identified it as Gear box mounting/bush which was absolutely knackered after 85k, had it replaced and it was a tremendous improvement. Would like to go the same way as you Rich with all bushes etc. but me thinks it will be too expensive, as i cant do it myself.

 

[Add7]

bk1 - Im in surrey and looking for a decent specialist?

Who do you go to? what are they like?

Cheers

 

[benk]

Not sure if this is the right forum (probably should be in garages one or whatever it's called), but I use A H Automobile services in Guildford - you can find them listed here:
Honest John
Also, there is a place others have recommended in Walton-on-thames:
Wheelbase

I have used AHAutos for about 3 years now and found them honest and good - it's a tiny place and you'll find no carpeted showroom here - it's a shed where they fix cars - nothing more, but I've never had a problem and will be going there again at next service.

 

[imported_jimbogrey]

[ QUOTE ]
bk1 said:
Thanks guys - will mention bushes, etc at next service.
Jimbo - where do you go for servicing? I use a place in Guildford - small audi/vw specialist.

[/ QUOTE ]

I have used Wheelbase in Hersham (walton on thames)for 3 years and have no complaints, link below to their website, they are also a main Revo Agent and did my upgrade

http://www.wheelbase.uk.com/

Hope this helps I dont know how conpetetive they are on price because I havent compared.

Jimbo