[s-cars] S4 Avant

[docwyte at comcast.net]

Not sure if you saw my earlier post, but the timing chain job is FAR more expensive than just a few thousand dollars. (just, ha!) 

The parts cost for the timing chain job are $4500. Assuming the car is still on its factory clutch, add in another $1500 for a new clutch/flywheel. The B6 S4's have a problematic dual mass flywheel that should be replaced. 

So that's $6000 in parts cost, then the motor/tranny needs to be dropped to do the job, figure shop labor of $2500-3000. 

Total cost, $8500+ dollars. 

There's NO warning if the timing chain guide/tensioner decides to let loose. You can't go by the cold start rattle as they all do that. Some are clearly worse than others, but that's not a good indication. 

People have had these fail at 80k miles and Forum wisdom is saying it's a 100k mile maintenance item. 

See why I sold mine? 

I'd really look into another car, maybe a 2002 S6 avant? Those have a true timing belt on the front of the motor, much easier/cheaper to replace. 

Josh