Buying an '08 Q7 and have a few questions

[aluthman]

I'm going to be buying a 2008 S-line Q7 tomorrow with the 4.2 FSI V8 and have a few questions for anyone that knows the answers:

1. It has the 21" S-line wheels on it and they are fucking trashed. It rides pretty harshly for what I would expect from an Audi. I'm guessing most of it is due to big wheels and thin tires, but I'm sure the suspension plays a part also. If I buy new wheels, what it a good middle ground with regards to ride comfort, tire price, and looks? I'm thinking some 18"x8" BBS SR wheels with 255/55-18 touring tires. Any opinions?

2. I have done a bit of research and haven't really found anything bad about the Q7 variant of the 4.2 FSI. I'm assuming it has the same carbon problems as the RS4 version, but haven't seen much info on it. Any other long term problems as these engines age?

3. Any helpful hints on improving gas mileage? I'm going to be doing the normal stuff like plugs, low resistance tires, etc but was wondering if there is anything off the wall for these things. I'm not expecting it to match my A4, but a solid 20 mpg or better on the highway would be great.

4. Is there a difference between the suspension with S-line and base suspensions? I do not have the air suspension but the suspension stuff I'm seeing says that it fits Q7s w/o S-line and w/o air suspension.

[Airflite40]

I just picked up an 07 S line with 4.2 it does not ride like trash at all, it's very smooth and feels great. I have 20" wheels, but I can't imagine 1" of wheel will make that much of a difference. I would guess the control arms or other suspension parts are worn out.

If you keep it at 70 or less you can eek out 21mpg on the highway.

I've found the 4.2 to be very robust and from my research it doesn't suffer from the timing chain issues that the previous chain 4.2 engines did.

[zerokiller698]

I think mine rides great.
The 4.2 does have carbon issues, but that is really it.
Something else to look out for is the documented issues with the sunroof drains.
Helpful hints on mpg, like Airflite40 said, keep it under 70.

[aluthman]

I'm having the dealership check out all the suspension bushings before I take it to see what kind of condition they are in. I also think tires with a larger sidewall will help immensely.

One other question, do you notice any hopping/shuddering when doing slow speed turns that are close to full lock? It feels kind of like a 4x4 truck in 4 low on pavement. I've never noticed anything like it in my A4, but this is the only Q7 I've ever driven. Is that just the way they are?

[zerokiller698]

The 4 wheel drive system is more like a 4x4 truck than the AWD in your A4. It will drive different, but hopping/shuddering doesn't sound right.