Used A8?

[Nicholas Miller]

Oh, A8's.  SO much fun.  But when they run well, a fantastic car.  I'll
talk a little about D2s.  More than I cover here for sure, but main
gotcha's:

-The 5HP24A trans had a lot of issues in the earlier D2's.  I know the main
problem was the 1-2 clutch basket retaining ring lip breaking, leading to
limp mode and needing a trans removal and replacement of that part, or
usually a full rebuild.  Tozo may still do this, and is the man to go to.

-Obviously the Timing belt is a requirement, and less than the 100k mile
interval some may claim.  Good maintenance is going to be key on one of
these.


-They have this oil/coolant passage that breaks or goes bad on the
passenger's side of the motor that is a PITA, (check audipages for
write-up) and will likely need addressing.  Easier to do with timing belt.
Can be upgraded to aluminum over OE plastic part.
http://www.audipages.com/Tech_Articles/enginemechanical/oilcoolerremovalreinstall.html

-Clogged HVAC drains leads to water in the ducting and possibly getting
into the back seat and floor.

-Head rest motors wear out on those things as well.

-lots of electrical gremlins, because old audi.

My only other opinion is if you are going to get one, know your options
packages, and go for a fully decked out A8.  I know some of the options are
silly, but neat to have, such as Solar sunroof, Alcantara headliner, rear
sunshade, etc.  The costs between a truly fully optioned model and more
basic one should be nil at this point.  If it were me, I would be looking
at a facelift D2 A8 or A8L well taken care of with a long maintenance
history.   If I started looking at D3's, unfortunately I wouldn't be able
to let go of the D3 S8 with that glorious V10 from my mind, and I'd end up
with one.

Speaking of audipages, check his site for more info.
http://www.audipages.com/usedA8.html

On Wed, May 24, 2017 at 3:02 PM, Paul Luevano <paul at clarity.net> wrote:

> List-
>
>         Looking for some information on potentially picking up a used A8
> for the father in law.  Just starting the search now, but wanted to pick
> the lists brain on: Years to avoid/look for, maintenance gotchas, etc..
>
>         Am I out of my mind hoping to find a solid, reliable, car for the
> FIL, or am I opening myself up to a maintenance nightmare?
>
>         Thanks much!
>
> Paul Luevano
> Wakefield MA
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