Going to look at a 96 A4 2.8 tomorrow - what should I look for?

[Wylie Bean]

One of the biggest things engine-wise to look for is/are oil leaks.
The old 12v V6, as well as the later 30v V6 engines are prone to leaks
at the valve cover gaskets especially, but also at front and rear main
seals.  Front and rear driveshaft seals are also probably going at
this mileage, as well as the drive axle seals.  Look for wetness at
the output flanges at the rear of the trans, at the inner cv joints at
both front and rear, and at the front of the rear diff.

As was mentioned, control arms and tie rods are also issues, control
arms due to the need for the revised units, and tie rod ends more for
mileage than anything else.  Clutches on these cars have a very late
take-up point, so don't be entirely alarmed if it feels like you have
to let the clutch almost all the way out to feel any "grab".


Wylie Bean
TheRingmeister at triad.rr.com
90 Cq
99.5 A4 Avant 1.8Tq
01 allroad q 2.7T