Audi Resale value.....Unintended poor reliability

[scott.john.mockry@bangate1.TEK.COM]

Here is my $0.02 on another reason Audis resale value suffered.

The 60 minutes show on Un-intended Acceleration obviously delt the 
killing blow to Audi sales during the mid 80's. But..........

Even with the breakthrough aerodynamics and good looks, 
the reliability of the 1984-86 5000 sedans did not exactly 
win over any new or existing Audi owners. The problems 
with the climate control system,  window regulators/switches, 
leaking hydraulic system (steering racks, pumps, hoses), 
broken exhaust manifold studs, electrical gadgets etc.
upset a lot of non-enthusiast Audi owners who 
wanted a reliable car for transportation.

I have talked with several owners who bought 84-86
5000 sedans "new" and indicated they would NEVER
buy an Audi again! NO WAY! One guy I spoke with was
still upset years later at the $2000+ repair bill for 
hydraulic system repair he got stuck with. I would imagine
that many of these unhappy owners told ALL their 
friends about their problems with their Audi.

Don't get me wrong I LOVE AUDI's and can't imagine
driving anything else. I remember seeing the 5000's
when they were first introduced and dreamed of 
owning one. I am fortunate enough (or un-fortunate as
 the case may be) to be able to work on them myself and can 
buy the parts at 1/3 the  cost the  dealer charges. 

I hope the A8/A6/A4 cars are very reliable and Audi
sales continue to climb. 

Scott M.