Thinking of getting an A4 avant, a few questions

[forbiddenbeat]

Hey all, I'm contemplating switching from an E46 M3 to an s-line avant, mainly because I don't have time for driving a lot these days, and some of my hobbies would be better served with an avant (mountain biking, mainly).

My M3 is rock solid, and has over a year of warranty left, so I'm apprehensive about picking up an Audi, since frankly my past two B5 S4's were crap in the reliability department.

That said, I love the look of the B7 A4 avant. I think it's a timeless design, and for a very utilitarian vehicle, it's about as good looking as they come.

So, it sounds like the 2.0t needs a bit of maintenance, but if properly maintained, is quite reliable. Is this correct? Anything else I should know about?

Thanks in advance.

[TheHeggi]

Seems like there's a lot of cam follower issues and carbon build up problems popping up lately. IF you do decide to go for the 2.0T, I'd recommend a CPO or any warranty of some sort. You're probably gonna need it

[forbiddenbeat]

Seems like there's a lot of cam follower issues and carbon build up problems popping up lately. IF you do decide to go for the 2.0T, I'd recommend a CPO or any warranty of some sort. You're probably gonna need it

The car I'm looking at has 11k left on the original warranty ('08 with 39k). Are these major issues, or just issues everyone here finds because we're all anal car people? :)

[coldfan142000]

well im not too shure about avants but all auids in general are more reliale when they dont have forced induction. and yes if they are well maintained then that always helps but find out it ur bMW mechanic works on audis because the dealerships are shitty with service and dont know much at all.

[forbiddenbeat]

Another question - is the RNS-e installation on a double-din car pretty straightforward? Is there a reputable dealer that sells pre-programmed kits?

[paulk11087]

those b5 s4 stock turbos are very unreliable and there are plenty of horror stories with them... as for the b7a4 avant s-line. i'd say good choice. fun to drive and great utility. i wish there were some used avants in my area when i was buying.