Re: Audi of America, are you listening?

[ti@amb.org (Ti Kan)]

Osman Parvez writes:
>     It seems that Audi is not very interested in improving parts on late
> model Audis. How many parts have we identified that systematically fail?
> Who has the best resources to correct the problem in the parts? Audi of
> course. Do they do it? No.... 

I am not sure why you say this.  I happen to own several generations
of Audis and I must say that the latest cars are vastly improved over
the older models in just about *every aspect*.  Some might gripe about
subjectives like lightened steering feel and such, but I don't think
there is any question that the newer cars are simply better built with
improved designs.

We also see many improvements in various parts over the production life
of a model.  The part numbers are often telltale... new versions often
supercede old ones.  Those of us who dabble with parts fiches and catalogs
know this well, and often take advantage of retrofitting the improved pieces
on an older car.

The improvements of the newer cars are not just skin deep.  Even small
things are apparently scrutinized by Audi.  To cite some random examples
comparing my A4q to the 5KST/4K:

- Electrical improvements: always 14.5 volts reading on the A4q's gauge,
  even when all heavy electrical consumers are turned on.  This indicates
  very good grounding, electrical contacts and wiring.  Something I wish
  was true with the earlier cars.

- The fuel and coolant temperature gauges reach their proper readings
  much more quickly on my A4q than both of the older Audis after turning
  on the ignition.

- The backlit instrument cluster on the A4q is far more legible (consistent
  backlighting) than the one in the 5KST.

- More robust door strikers on the A4q.

- Improved feel on shifter and all switchgear, quieter, smoother operation
  of power windows and sunroof.  Smooth-feel ashtray, etc... all those
  touchy-feelie tactile stuff.

- Much improved climate control system.

I have not even began to cite all the new features and functionality...
and I could go on and on...

Just thought I'd state a counterpoint.

-Ti
96 A4 2.8 quattro
84 5000S 2.1 turbo
80 4000 2.0
-- 
    ///  Ti Kan                Vorsprung durch Technik
   ///   AMB Research Laboratories, Sunnyvale, CA. USA
  ///    ti@amb.org
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