[s-cars] S4 Avant

[Keith Franchetti]

Josh-
Not sure if It was your earlier post, or the cumulative wisdom that's been accruing, but between those bits and this current statement of affairs, I have officially ruled out this car. Thanks so much to everyone for weighing in, and for all the other ideas for directions to look in. I'll update you all on the search as it moves forward. 

Keith

On May 5, 2013, at 9:24 AM, docwyte at comcast.net wrote:

> 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