buying a used Audi A4 with over 100,000 miles

[Dukelton]

Hi everyone, i'm new to Audi, so can anyone advise me on this topic. I would like to buy an Audi Avant 2.0 TDI sport ultra, estate, but i'm a little worried that the high mileage might be a problem. My friend seems to think that the turbo might need re-conditioning as this would be expensive if it goes, and dealers would probably not check this in their sales pitch. Has anyone had problems with the turbo? and how much to have it re-conditioned? thank you

[Steve Q]

Service history is key. Ideally full. Big bills on mileage cars can be turbo, injectors, egr valves and dpf filters. Are you looking at manual or auto? 

Check buyers guides on YouTube. 

[Dukelton]

Hi Steve. Looking for auto

[spartacus 68]

As mentioned, history is key, but turbos can fail regardless. Failed on my 2012 A4 Allroad under 70k miles. That car was well-cared for, with oil and filter changes every 8-10k miles.

The actuator potentially failed can be tested with vacuum), it can be purchased separately, but in order to set up with the turbo it needs to be balanced on a bench with specialist tools. Easier just to replace the turbo and actuator as one unit. On the 2.0TDI (177PS) which is Garrett unit, then you can buy new rather than reconditioned unit from turbo-diesel.co.uk

You can pick up turbo for around £600. Audi will charge you double that just for the same part plus labour.

I stripped the turbo down and there was carbon build-up, and one of the vanes on the turbine was damaged so I opted to swap it out. Importantly the oil feed line needs to be renewed too. If not you run the risk of a leak. You need to factor in an oil and filter change as a matter of course.

There are plenty diesel B8 Avants on the market. My suggestion, narrow your list down on extras as it’s expensive to retro-fit, colour of course, and mileage. Last B8.5 would have been around 2015, so set your budget accordingly.

[alpha omega]

mine is only a b8 2011 diesel manual.i have currently 205,000 miles on the clock and still going strong.had to have the clutch done recently but thats normal wear and tear.i change the oil and filter regular.never had a problem with the turbo since owning it for 5 years.regards stephen

[Dukelton]

thank you all