RS246.com Forum :: The World's #1 Audi R, S and RS Enthusiast Community

Hi Guys/Gals?

Thinking about joining you guys (missus has dashed my hopes of a Subaru) & just need some advice ...Ive read the buying guide on here, but wondered if there's anything else i should look out for? & whats the average lifespan of clutch/turbo's/pads/tyres??? ...what kind of servicing costs am i looking at? & when should the cambelt be changed?

What can I expect in the £10-11K bracket? ...why are the private ads in trader more than some of the dealers??

Can anyone also recommend an Audi specialist in the midland area? ...or do the dealers know what they're doing?

So, so many questions!

Cheers,

Darren

Darren,

I can't help too much about buying a used S4 as I've had mine from new, however here's what info I can offer:

1) For your budget you will probably be looking at 1998/9 high milers.
2) Used prices have been hit hard lately. I suggest that private sellers are trying to get what they think their car's worth rather than what the market dictates. Dealers are more concerned with selling the newer, higher margin cars, and the older ones take up valuable lot space.
3) I generally find that servicing costs are low because the only significant service (apart from oil which I do myself) is 20K. So its only a few hundred £ every year, plus whatever you spend on tyres (which are around £100 each for an S4). The cambelt change is officially 80K.