Do you guys think 2004 1.8T is more reliable than 2002/2003 models?

**TripnA4** · 05-22-2008 08:31 AM

These guys seem to think soo...

http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/Re...&wa=wsignin1.0

**GTMRS4** · 05-22-2008 08:36 AM

never had any recalls or major items with mine - that wasn't due to modding

**b6onboost** · 05-22-2008 09:11 AM

i would say the earlier model years tend to have more reliability issues. however the 02-03s are older and have had more time for things to go wrong. one thing i find troublesome about those reports is the B5 S4 seems to have a flawless record [O_O]

**monkey323i** · 05-22-2008 09:14 AM

Comments
Engine
Significant Problems
Occasional problems on this vehicle (1.8L Turbo only), are the failure of the Timing Chain Tensioner, the Oil Pump Pickup Tube, the Ignition Coil and the Water Pump and a periodic problem is a failure of the Catalytic Converters (3.0L only). Problems with the Timing Chain Tensioner may cause further engine damage that will increase the cost of repair. Problems with the Timing Chain Tensioner can prevent the engine from starting. Problems with the Ignition Coils are identified in TSB #010301. The cost to repair the Timing Chain Tensioner is estimated at $500.00 for parts and $195.00 for labor. The cost to repair the Oil Pump Pickup Tube is estimated at $200.00 for parts and $385.00 for labor. The cost to repair the Ignition Coils is estimated at $23.00 for each coil and $65,00 for labor. The cost to repair the Water Pump is estimated at $69.00 for parts and $260.00 for labor. The cost to repair the Catalytic Converters is estimated at $2000.00 for parts and $383.50 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65,00 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax.

Oh no!!!
I just got CEL code P0431/P0421 from my 3.0 Quattro meaning both my cats are out last week!!

**johnouellette** · 05-22-2008 09:20 AM

Originally Posted by b6onboost

however the 02-03s are older and have had more time for things to go wrong [O_O]

you hit the nail on the head there.

**CO AVANT** · 05-22-2008 09:22 AM

The oil pump pickup tube problem is a result of dirty oil or engine sludge. The pickup tube can be cleaned of the deposits with any acid cleaner and reinstalled there after. They cost of install on this piece takes more than just dropping the oil pan since the subframe will most likely need to be dropped to get it to clear for removal. Timing chain tensioners are the same part across the B6 board so it's really just time and miles (older the model gets) that make those things fail. The coil packs in all B6's just need to be "R" versions at this point. I do not like the oem B6 water pumps since they use plastic impellers. You can get older 1.8T model ones that have metal impellers. They will last much longer.

**cjonesgo** · 05-22-2008 10:09 AM

The 02's have fewer audi recognized problems. No recall for us on fuel pump. That aside, recalls and tech bulletins are pretty much identical from what I have seen.