Audi A4 (1 731)

History models
The first generation Audi A4 debuted in 1994. Like its predecessor, the Audi 80 B4, it has a longitudinally mounted engine and front-wheel drive. More expensive versions were equipped with permanent Quattro all-wheel drive.

Audi A4 B5

In 1998, the A4 underwent a slight restyling. After the update, chrome window trim appeared, door handles were painted in body color, and the headlights became solid. Technically, the car has remained virtually unchanged.



The Audi A4 B5 was distinguished by exemplary anti-corrosion protection and high quality workmanship. The gauges on the instrument panel are easy to read, and the front panel looks quite attractive, even today. It is made of high quality plastic. But the durability of the materials, alas, is not sensational.

Engines
Gasoline:

R4 1.6 (101 hp), R4 1.8 (125 hp), R4 1.8T (150-180 hp);
V6 2.4 (165 hp), V6 2.6 (139-150 hp), V6 2.8 (174-193 hp);
V6 2.7BiT (265 hp) - S4 version, V6 2.7BiT (380 hp) - RS4 version.
Diesel:

R4 1.9 TDI (75, 90, 110-115 hp);
V6 2.5 TDI (150 hp).


The range of power units is very wide. Almost all of them are worth recommending, with the exception of the V-6s. Advantages include: simple design, high strength and availability of spare parts. However, a lot depends on maintenance and actual mileage. Therefore, never believe the seller’s assurances that the engine works like a clock.

In gasoline engines, the throttle valve unit, which costs 10,000 rubles or more, often fails. Beware of Chinese fakes - they don't work for long.



Turbocharged engines impress with their flexibility and reliability. When purchasing, you need to check the compression and tightness of the valves.

Most examples with 1.9 TDI have gigantic mileages, which are also twisted. However, even in the event of a “hit” on a obviously faulty unit, bringing it into working condition will not require large financial costs. However, it should be taken into account that after 300-400 thousand km there is a high probability of wear of the distribution pump (from 13,000 rubles) and camshaft cams (from 10,000 rubles). Advantages of the 1.9 TDI: durability, low fuel consumption and the ability to increase power - tuning.

V-twin engines are already seriously worn out. The 2.8-liter petrol unit suffers from problems with the oil pump. The 2.5 TDI is very tricky. With high mileage, the camshafts wear out. In addition, it is uneconomical and expensive to maintain and repair.

It’s even worse if the turbodiesel is paired with an automatic transmission. It should be borne in mind that to repair the machine you will need about 60,000 rubles. Fortunately, the highly problematic Multitronic (variator) was not used here.

Chassis


Despite its overall positive reputation, the Audi A4 B5 has one weak point - the multi-link front suspension. It is made of light alloy metals and therefore sometimes wears out after several tens of thousands of kilometers. In addition, the front suspension is expensive to repair. The cost of a set of new levers is from 10 to 20 thousand rubles. You will have to pay an additional half for the work.

Owners of all-wheel drive modifications find themselves in no better position. There's also a multi-link suspension at the rear. In front-wheel drive versions, a fairly durable torsion beam is installed.

Typical problems and malfunctions
It is difficult to identify typical faults in a 20-year-old car. Given the age, anything can break. Especially in used copies. Fortunately, well-maintained A4 B5s rarely break down, and in case of problems they do not require special knowledge or special services.

Over time, the power steering pump often begins to make noise. Leaks appear in the cooling system through the pump, radiator and rubber hoses. Advanced age becomes the main reason for the failure of the central locking system, alternator, starter and air conditioning control lights.

The airbag malfunction indicator light comes on from time to time. The cause is a loose connection under the seat or loss of contact in the steering wheel. Problems with the windshield wiper mechanism are widespread. To restore functionality, it is enough to replace the bushings and pins. In older copies, the pixels on the on-board computer display burn out.

Market situation
The first generation Audi A4 is a fairly popular car in our market. There are about 1,000 offers for sale on one of the leading classifieds portals. Prices are very varied: from 100,000 rubles for a running copy to 400,000 rubles for a well-maintained car.

The difference in condition is colossal. More expensive cars, as a rule, have no signs of corrosion and boast a good interior. If rust is found, it is only on the suspension elements and exhaust system.

Copies from the lower price range often have a shabby interior and a body that “shimmers” in various colors or shades (consequences of inexpensive repairs). In addition, owners of old A4 B5 often refuse high-quality repairs, which require significant costs. Such an instance soon turns into a hackneyed cart. Then the next owner falls on the shoulders of: a major overhaul of the engine and gearbox, patching holes and updating the suspension. If the car requires all this work, then the costs will be comparable to the cost of the car itself.



Is it worth buying?
So is it worth recommending the no longer young A4? Yes, but remember that, despite the tempting prices, you should not neglect a thorough check of the technical condition.