Audi A4 B5
Audi A4 B5 evaluation (1994–2001): condition, documents, inspection and conditions of sale of the car.
Indicative purchase price
Below market value
Final price agreed after inspection.
Value my car1Why buyers choose this model
Audi A4 first generation debuted in 1994. Like its predecessor, the Audi 80 B4, it has a longitudinal engine and front-wheel drive.
2What buyers check
Model history
Audi A4 first generation debuted in 1994. Like its predecessor, the Audi 80 B4, it has a longitudinal engine and front-wheel drive. The more expensive versions were equipped with a permanent all-wheel drive Quattro.
In 1998, the A4 underwent a minor restyling. After the update, a chrome edging of the windows appeared, the door handles were painted in the color of the body, and the front headlights became solid. Technically, the car has not changed much.
Audi A4 B5 was distinguished by exemplary anti-corrosion protection and high quality of performance. The pointers on the dashboard 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
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) - version of the S4, V6 2.7BiT (380 hp) - version of the RS4. The range of power units is very wide. Almost all of them deserve recommendations, except for the V-shaped sixes. Among the advantages: simple design, high strength and the availability of spare parts. However, much depends on service and real mileage. Never believe a salesman’s claim that the engine works like a clock. In gasoline engines often fails block throttle cost from 10 000 rubles. Beware of Chinese counterfeits, they don’t last long. Turbocharged engines impress with elasticity and reliability. When purchasing, it is necessary to check the compression and tightness of the valves. Most 1.9 TDIs have giant runs, which are also twisted. Nevertheless, even in the case of “getting” on a knowingly faulty unit, bringing it into working condition will not require large financial costs. However, it should be borne in mind that after 300-400 thousand km, the probability of wear of the distribution pump (from 13 000 rubles) and camshafts (from 10 000 rubles) is high. Advantages of 1.9 TDI: durability, low fuel consumption and the possibility of increasing power - tuning. V-shaped engines are already seriously worn out. the 2.8-liter petrol unit suffers from oil pump problems. the 2.5 TDI is very insidious. At large mileages, the distribution shafts wear out.
Walking
Despite the overall positive reputation, the Audi A4 B5 has one weak spot – a multi-link front suspension. It is made of alloy metals and therefore wears out sometimes 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 about half for the work.
The owners of all-wheel drive modifications are not in the best position. There is also a multi-link suspension in the back. In front-wheel drive versions, a sufficiently hardy torsion beam is installed.
Typical problems and malfunctions
In a 20-year-old car, it is difficult to identify typical malfunctions. Given your age, anything can break down. Especially in the old ones. Fortunately, well-groomed A4 B5 breaks rarely, and in case of problems do not require special knowledge and special services.
Over time, the pump of hydraulic power often begins to make noise. In the cooling system, leaks appear through the pump, radiator and rubber hoses. Old age becomes the main cause of failure of the central lock, generator, starter and illumination of the control system of air conditioning.
From time to time, the indicator of malfunction of airbags lights up. The reason is disconnection of the contact under the seat or loss of contact in the steering wheel. Problems with the windshield wiper mechanism are widespread. To restore efficiency, it is enough to replace the sleeves and pins. In old copies, pixels on the display of the onboard computer burn out.
Petrol R4
*** Fuel consumption by EU: city/highway/medium.
Petrol V6
*** Fuel consumption in the EU: city/highway/medium
Diesel engines
*** Fuel consumption by EU: city/highway/medium.
3Pre-purchase checklist
Model history
- Audi A4 B5 was distinguished by exemplary anti-corrosion protection and high quality of performance.
Engines
- In gasoline engines often fails block throttle cost from 10 000 rubles.
- When purchasing, it is necessary to check the compression and tightness of the valves.
- However, it should be borne in mind that after 300-400 thousand.
- km high probability of wear of the distribution pump (from 13 000 rubles) and camshafts (from 10 000 rubles). Benefits 1.
- The 2.8-litre petrol unit suffers from problems with the oil pump. the 2.5 TDI is very insidious.
- In addition, it is inefficient and expensive to maintain and repair.
- It should be borne in mind that for the repair of the machine will need about 60,000 rubles.
- Fortunately, the very problematic Multitronic (variator) was not used here.
Walking
- In addition, the front suspension is expensive to repair.
Typical problems and malfunctions
- In a 20-year-old car, it is difficult to identify typical malfunctions.
- Fortunately, well-groomed A4 B5 breaks rarely, and in case of problems do not require special knowledge and special services.
- Old age becomes the main cause of failure of the central lock, generator, starter and illumination of the control system of air conditioning.
- From time to time, the indicator of malfunction of airbags lights up.
- The reason is disconnection of the contact under the seat or loss of contact in the steering wheel.
- Problems with the windshield wiper mechanism are widespread.
4Challenges of selling privately
The first-generation Audi A4 is quite a popular car in our market. One of the leading ad portals has about 1,000 offers for sale. Prices are very diverse: from 100,000 rubles per copy on the go to 400 000 rubles for a well-kept car.
The difference in condition is enormous. More expensive cars, as a rule, have no traces of corrosion and boast a good interior. Rust, if detected, is only on the elements of the suspension and exhaust system.
Copies from the lower price range often have a shabby interior and body, “shimmering” with different colors or shades (the consequences of inexpensive repairs). In addition, the owners of the old A4 B5 often refuse high-quality repairs that require decent costs. Such a copy soon turns into a worn cart. Then on the shoulders of the next owner fall: overhaul of the engine and box, patching holes and updating the suspension. If the car requires all these works, then the costs will be comparable to the cost of the car itself.
Is it worth recommending a younger A4? Yes, but remember that, despite the attractive prices, you should not neglect a thorough check of the technical condition.
- The history of the model: Audi A4 B5 was distinguished by exemplary anti-corrosion protection and high quality of performance.
- Engines: In gasoline engines often fails block throttle cost from 10 000 rubles.
- Driving: In addition, the front suspension is expensive to repair.
- Typical problems and malfunctions: In a 20-year-old car, it is difficult to identify typical malfunctions.
Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.
5How selling to us works
Leave a request with the car data. We will discuss the preliminary assessment and inspection. After checking the status and documents, we agree on the final price and terms of the transaction.

