Low/low-ish mileage S4s - what to look for?

[ChiefyMan55]

I've got 3 S4's that are low to lowish miles (2004 and 2005 year, 45k, 66k, and 79k miles)

I know timing chain system is a concern around/past 100k... but for cars under (and well under) 80k miles... what should I be on the look out for? Should the timing system be a concern for the 66k and 79k mile ones? Keep in mind, the car would be driven a fair amount, probably 15k a year... at least for the time being.

Also, one is the auto, two are manuals, so any concerns with either gearbox?

[Ob3R]

Timing can go at anytime really. Just listen for rattling on cold start up. This means guides are broken. A CEL with misfires could mean the cam adjusters. Ive seen S4's need the service at 50k but also ones that got up to 150k before showing any wear. It all depends on how it was taken care of too ive noticed. Not many problems between the transmissions. Early S4's with manual had a problem with a failure prone flywheel but thats about it. After addressing those issues, it is a quite reliable car. Also make sure to check the A/C compressor as those like to go out too sometimes.

Sent from my .:R32

[S42RS4]

I've got 3 S4's that are low to lowish miles (2004 and 2005 year, 45k, 66k, and 79k miles)

I know timing chain system is a concern around/past 100k... but for cars under (and well under) 80k miles... what should I be on the look out for? Should the timing system be a concern for the 66k and 79k mile ones? Keep in mind, the car would be driven a fair amount, probably 15k a year... at least for the time being.

Also, one is the auto, two are manuals, so any concerns with either gearbox?

Check for cylinder wall scoring. Once the walls are scorn, engine is useless and you will eat up oil like its no tomorrow.

[FastEddie]

Oil consumption, Chain Rattle, Suspension. IMO i would pay for PPI on them.