Need Expert Advice: Replacement parts for newly bought 03 B6 A4 Avant 1.8T 5-spd Manu

[melo217s]

Hi guys, I need your expert help and advice on what brand and type to buy for replacement parts.
What's the deal with so expensive OEMs and replacement parts that are just about 10-20% of the price of the OEM?
And what is usually the cost of labor for replacing parts?

I am a newbie here in the forums and a new Audi owner.
My first car actually since I am an international student who just needs a daily driver.

So I got this beauty from a used car dealer in Philadelphia, via bidding at ebay and I brought it home and to a mechanic for general check-up.
He said that for a 10 year old car with 164K miles, this one has more good than bad. So I am really happy about that.
"The underside has no significant signs of rust, which was surprising," he said.
Nonetheless, some parts need to be replaced for proper care and maintenance."

Here's the summary of his observations:

Road test felt a vibration in the drive line.
Hood latch sticks.
Front brakes approx. 20% worn
Rear brakes approx. 50% worn
Serp. belt- OK
Timing belt replaced at 99,989 miles.

Here's what he has listed as recommended repairs and maintenance:

Valve Cover reseal (approx. $275) - valve cover is leaking oil
Replace Spark Plugs (approx. $165) - spark plug holes have oil in them
Replace Engine Air Filter (approx. $105) - engine air filter is dirty, air box has debris in it
Replace Fuel Filter (approx. $130) - fuel filter looks old
Replace Wiper Blades (approx. $75) - all three wiper blades streak
Oil change and Filter - (approx. $90)

Replace Battery Cover - missing
Replace both License Plate Assembly - (approx. 180) - left license plate is corroded
Replace LH RR Bulb Circuit Board - (approx. $130) - left rear taillight circuit board is corroded, warning light on left rear fog lamp
Replace 3rd Stop Lamp Assembly - (approx. 170) - one of the 3rd stop lamp bulbs are out
Replace RH High Beam (H7 bulb) - (approx. $42) - warning light on right high beam

The approximations include parts and labor.

I need your expert advice on which type and brand of parts to buy and at what price.
And also which stores could be a reliable source of these parts, e.g., Genuine Audi OEM store, ECS Tuning, new or used parts store?

[melo217s]

[iHaveBoost?]

I would never pay $275 for parts/labor for a VCG. That's 10 minutes and $20. Samsies for pretty much everything on that list. You can replace everything on that list in a solid afternoon.

Are you capable of turning a wrench? You can easily do everything on this list for a FRACTION of those charges. There's write ups and everything.

EDIT: Add PCV refresher to the list. You want to fix the cause of the VCG/oil in plug wells, not just bandaid it by replacing those parts.

[jubei4769]

165 for spark plugs bro ur getting ripped off, order the parts u need and do it urself


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[melo217s]

@iHaveBoost and jubei4769:

Thanks bros.
Indeed. I kinda figured it out that they're ripping me off for charging me $42 to change one headlight bulb with one of their regular bulbs.
I did pay them $47 for the general check-up and test drive.

I think they'd also broken the plastic latch/lock of the door to the electrical assembly at the back of the rear license plate.
So I have to replace that lock, too, because it's ugly hanging out when I lift back the hatch.
I wonder how to replace that one, i mean, where I buy that replacement part?

Pardon my ignorance. What's a PCV refresher?

I bought online a Haynes Repair Manual for 2002-05 A4 so it's about coming in the next few days so I will get an idea how to do these replacements myself. But I fear I'd break more stuff than fix them at the moment so I would rather have someone really knowledgeable to do them first while I am looking before I tinker with the machine.

[nazisled]

http://www.ecstuning.com/
http://www.blauparts.com/
http://www.mjmautohaus.com/

these are sites that i've used personally and had zero issues with. ECS will pretty much have anything you need like your battery cover for like $12.

[B72011]

Buy a huge basic tool set with metrics, some extensions, a few other things as needed for each job. You can use Harbor Freight tools--theyre pretty cheap. If you are really on a budget you can buy a tool, use it then return it as they have a 90 day warranty. Craftsman found in Sears stores are also good. If you decide not to do the job, buy the parts and then shop around to various mechanics. MANY of the jobs are not specific just to Audi specialty shops. Find out how much time each job takes then call or email places and haggle the price down.
Use Amazon, Ebay, genuineaudiparts.com---just google things. I just found a seal from an Audi from an Audi dealer for $37 the other day that was $65 everywhere else.
YOu can EASILY do all the jobs listed.
Unless the car is making a loud noise from under the rear seat I'd forget about the fuel filter for now.......its an easy fix but not really all that necessary.
Good luck with the car!

[jubei4769]

Yea check ecs or some of those other sites 105 for air filter it's like a 20 dollar part and takes 15 minutes to change.


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[jubei4769]

Forgot to add check the DIY threads to, lot of easy jobs you can handle


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[04 audi a4 boi]

Hi guys, I need your expert help and advice on what brand and type to buy for replacement parts.
What's the deal with so expensive OEMs and replacement parts that are just about 10-20% of the price of the OEM?
And what is usually the cost of labor for replacing parts?

I am a newbie here in the forums and a new Audi owner.
My first car actually since I am an international student who just needs a daily driver.

So I got this beauty from a used car dealer in Philadelphia, via bidding at ebay and I brought it home and to a mechanic for general check-up.
He said that for a 10 year old car with 164K miles, this one has more good than bad. So I am really happy about that.
"The underside has no significant signs of rust, which was surprising," he said.
Nonetheless, some parts need to be replaced for proper care and maintenance."

Here's the summary of his observations:

Road test felt a vibration in the drive line.
Hood latch sticks.
Front brakes approx. 20% worn
Rear brakes approx. 50% worn
Serp. belt- OK
Timing belt replaced at 99,989 miles.

Here's what he has listed as recommended repairs and maintenance:

Valve Cover reseal (approx. $275) - valve cover is leaking oil
Replace Spark Plugs (approx. $165) - spark plug holes have oil in them
Replace Engine Air Filter (approx. $105) - engine air filter is dirty, air box has debris in it
Replace Fuel Filter (approx. $130) - fuel filter looks old
Replace Wiper Blades (approx. $75) - all three wiper blades streak
Oil change and Filter - (approx. $90)

Replace Battery Cover - missing
Replace both License Plate Assembly - (approx. 180) - left license plate is corroded
Replace LH RR Bulb Circuit Board - (approx. $130) - left rear taillight circuit board is corroded, warning light on left rear fog lamp
Replace 3rd Stop Lamp Assembly - (approx. 170) - one of the 3rd stop lamp bulbs are out
Replace RH High Beam (H7 bulb) - (approx. $42) - warning light on right high beam

The approximations include parts and labor.

I need your expert advice on which type and brand of parts to buy and at what price.
And also which stores could be a reliable source of these parts, e.g., Genuine Audi OEM store, ECS Tuning, new or used parts store?

ecs tiuning man, i get everything from them., you can save a lot of money doing the jobs at home.....

[Nollywood]

Sounds like one big con. $1,362 for minor issues? NOTHING on that list is particularly difficult, even for a novice. I would suggest you go through your Haynes manual, when it arrives. I would definitely recommend a Bentley though. Coupled with the write-ups here, you can sort all these minor issues. There are lots of guys on here who'll give you a heads-up if you get stuck.

It's like this "mechanic" of yours just wants to bend you over, and give you the rough end of a pineapple.

[Bags4Groceries]

All of the parts you need to replace are more than 1/2 the price you posted if you look on ECS, 034, or even autozone (lights, filters, etc). Do them all yourself...all of those DIY's are pretty basic. And if you can't figure it out, AudiZine and A4Mods both have great write ups to follow for nearly any person.

Good luck!

[A4SoftWalker]

I would add timing belt replacement job to your list too if it was last changed over 65kmiles ago.

[Bags4Groceries]

I would add timing belt replacement job to your list too if it was last changed over 65kmiles ago.

+1

But, do NOT do it yourself if you've never done them on our cars, let alone any car...we all know how much fun bent valves are!

[WB650]

I just bought an 03 Avant myself a week ago, automatic and has only 115k on it. Oh yeah, love that color of yours!

Air Filter is easy and its like $25 at any Auto store, i'm going with Wix and the job seems easy enough. http://www.a4mods.com/index.php?page.../pages/kn.html

I just got my plugs done, NGK Laser Plats, ECS has a kit with both plugs & coil packs together. Only thing about ECS is their shipping prices are kinda high which is a turn off.

I also had my mechanic do my oil/filter, $55 for 5 qts (used 4.5qts) of 0w-40 Mobil 1 Synthetic and $13 shipped for a Mann Filter off Amazon. Mechanic actually did it for free since he was glad I got rid of my POS Cadillac I was putting so much money into but usually would only charge me $25.

[SlickFix]

Pardon my ignorance. What's a PCV refresher?

The PCV breather system is a series of plastic tubes and check valves that allow an escape route for oil vapor from the engine. When it gets plugged up, pressure builds inside the engine and the vapor looks for the path of least resistance -- which is the valve cover gasket -- in order to exit the engine. If you replace the leaking valve cover gasket without solving the root cause of the pressure in the engine, the new valve cover gasket will start leaking, too.

So, in addition to replacing the valve cover gasket, you'll need to replace the PCV breather system. Here's a great DIY for replacing the PCV breather system.

I would not leave the fuel filter for later. It's not an expensive part, and even a newbie can do it without much trouble.

Keep in mind that doing these repairs and maintenance involves a substantial initial investment in tools: A good floor jack, quality jack stands(an absolute must!), a set of metric sockets and ratchets. Those are the bare minimums you'll need to become a DIY'er. On the plus side, the money you save by doing these jobs yourself will easily pay for your tools many times over.

There are very good DIY's all over the internet for your car. Use google to search "B6 A4 xxx DIY", where "xxx" is whatever job you want to do.

This forum also has a tech section which contains many good DIY's, and you should also use the search function on this forum to do some research and to learn.

The Haynes manual is ok, but if you are going to start working on your car yourself, I recommend investing in a Bentley Repair manual, and a VCDS cable and scanning software.

I think you'll really love your Audi, but they do require a lot of TLC and $$$.

Best of luck!

[ECS Tuning-Audi]

Thanks for all the references and support!

We are your one stop shop! We have everything thing from tools, fluids, Genuine Audi parts, aftermarket replacement parts, performance products, and even great DIY's in PDF and video form!

We also now have a few different shipping options!



If you ever have any questions feel free to shoot me a PM and I'll be happy to help!

Jason

[Bags4Groceries]

Thanks for all the references and support!

We are your one stop shop! We have everything thing from tools, fluids, Genuine Audi parts, aftermarket replacement parts, performance products, and even great DIY's in PDF and video form!

We also now have a few different shipping options!

If you ever have any questions feel free to shoot me a PM and I'll be happy to help!

Jason

It also helps to live 30 minutes away from ECS and its usually free

[SlickFix]

It also helps to live 30 minutes away from ECS and its usually free

Finger!

Just kidding. I'm jealous.

[Bags4Groceries]

Finger!

Just kidding. I'm jealous.

Lol

[melo217s]

Wow a wealth of good advice! Thanks guys!
This is super.
I am loving Audizine and my Audi already!
I will sure give enough TLC and as much $$$ as I can into it.

I will buy the Bentley, the necessary tools for DIY tasks, and a VCDS cable and scanning software.
And, of course, the replacement parts. Thanks again for all the great advice.

I can't wait to get off from grad school and do more for my Audi.
But now I need to know which ones need to be taken care of first.

[melo217s]

I just bought an 03 Avant myself a week ago, automatic and has only 115k on it. Oh yeah, love that color of yours!

Air Filter is easy and its like $25 at any Auto store, i'm going with Wix and the job seems easy enough. http://www.a4mods.com/index.php?page.../pages/kn.html

I just got my plugs done, NGK Laser Plats, ECS has a kit with both plugs & coil packs together. Only thing about ECS is their shipping prices are kinda high which is a turn off.

I also had my mechanic do my oil/filter, $55 for 5 qts (used 4.5qts) of 0w-40 Mobil 1 Synthetic and $13 shipped for a Mann Filter off Amazon. Mechanic actually did it for free since he was glad I got rid of my POS Cadillac I was putting so much money into but usually would only charge me $25.

Awesome. Post pics of your Avant!
And thanks for the compliment. I appreciate it.
It will soon be a beauty to look and a beauty to ride.

Hmm, air filter DIY. Looks like something I can do.

[lencho1500]

Like everyone else said, all the things on that list are fairly easy, start with the simple ones and work yourself up to your comfort level.
Look over the DIY for the air filter and VC gasket and ask yourself if you feel confident enough to do them. They are pretty straight forward.
Ecs is a great site to get parts.
Make sure to get your timing belt and water pump done within the next 5k miles you are nearing the replacement interval.
Nice avant too

I would do
1. Replace burnt light bulbs and spark plugs along with an oil change and air filter, parts should not be more than $150 and you can do that in one afternoon
2.Valve cover gasket, wiper blades
3.fuel filter
4.timing belt( considering you do this before you get to 170,000 miles)
5.other :)

[B72011]

BZZZZZZZZZZZZET! NOT true. The most I had done on a car before was a change some pads and shoes and a few other minor things on an old Datsun 510 before I changed the timing belt on our B7. Waddnt no thing really..........granted I asked about a million questions..but the folks around here were tolerant enough to humor me.
If you can follow a DIY you can do it yourself.

+1

But, do NOT do it yourself if you've never done them on our cars, let alone any car...we all know how much fun bent valves are!

[melo217s]

Like everyone else said, all the things on that list are fairly easy, start with the simple ones and work yourself up to your comfort level.
Look over the DIY for the air filter and VC gasket and ask yourself if you feel confident enough to do them. They are pretty straight forward.
Ecs is a great site to get parts.
Make sure to get your timing belt and water pump done within the next 5k miles you are nearing the replacement interval.
Nice avant too

I would do
1. Replace burnt light bulbs and spark plugs along with an oil change and air filter, parts should not be more than $150 and you can do that in one afternoon
2.Valve cover gasket, wiper blades
3.fuel filter
4.timing belt( considering you do this before you get to 170,000 miles)
5.other :)

Awesome. Thanks bro

So the hunt for parts is ON! My reference point is Amazon because I have Prime so I get two-days free shipping.

(1) HEADLIGHTS, H7 Bulbs:

GE H7-55NH/BP2 Nighthawk Automotive Replacement Bulbs, Pack of 2.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ls_o01_s00_i00 ... $21.14. [OK, done.]

(2) SPARK PLUGS:

a) Genuine OEM VW/Audi (NGK) Set of four Mfg Part# 101000063AAKT
http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B6_A4-...ugs/ES2526486/ ... $59.95 [Is this necessarily the best, given the expensive price?]

b) NGK (6458) PFR6Q Laser Platinum Spark Plug, Pack of 1
Fitment Notes: Double Platinum Plug, OEM/OES - LASER PLATINUM - .032
http://www.amazon.com/NGK-PFR6Q-Lase...pr_product_top ... $12.92 x 4 = $51.68 free shipping

or <Mfg Part# PFR6Q4CYL>
http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B6_A4-...k_Plugs/ES592/ ... $44.95 [Looks like these are the same as the one from Amazon's above]

c) Denso Spark Plugs with Iridium power core - Set Of Four (#IK20) <Mfg#: 5304-4>
http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B6_A4-..._Plugs/ES8034/ ... $37.57

or Denso 5304 Spark Plug
IRIDIUM POWER PERFORMANCE UPGRADE w/WORLD'S SMALLEST CENTER ELECTRODE 0.4 MM DIA & TAPERED TIP PATENTED U-GROOVE DESIGN & PATENTED IR ALLOY 90% IR - GAP .044" ... $9.08 X 4 = $36.32

Which are better Platinum or Iridium spark plugs?
And what's the deal with pulse plugs? The reviews seem to be mixed.


TO BE CONT'D for Oil Change and Air Filter, Valve cover gasket (+ the PCV refresher), wiper blades (2 front, I rear), Fuel Filter, and lastly Timing Belt...

Though I found this air filter on ebay, http://www.ebay.com/itm/K-N-33-2209-...4c555e&vxp=mtr Is this good? $48.99 + 12.00 shipping.

p.s. Thanks for the compliment on the color. I think the color is Blue but it looks dark, it comes off as almost black. I don't know the exact paint color for this one. Midnight Blue, probably.

[melo217s]

Thanks for the great advice B72011. Now I am on the hunt for TOOLS!
I'm checking out Harbor Freight right now, searching for that 'huge basic tool set with metrics' and extensions.
Sorry I am really starting from scratch, plus a couple of dents.

Buy a huge basic tool set with metrics, some extensions, a few other things as needed for each job. You can use Harbor Freight tools--they're pretty cheap. If you are really on a budget you can buy a tool, use it then return it as they have a 90 day warranty. Craftsman found in Sears stores are also good. If you decide not to do the job, buy the parts and then shop around to various mechanics. MANY of the jobs are not specific just to Audi specialty shops. Find out how much time each job takes then call or email places and haggle the price down.
Use Amazon, Ebay, genuineaudiparts.com---just google things. I just found a seal from an Audi from an Audi dealer for $37 the other day that was $65 everywhere else.
YOu can EASILY do all the jobs listed.
Unless the car is making a loud noise from under the rear seat I'd forget about the fuel filter for now.......its an easy fix but not really all that necessary.
Good luck with the car!

[Charles.waite]

Hey man welcome to the club. When I got my b6 almost 2 years ago, I'd never even changed the oil in my car. I've learned a ton because of this place, sounds like you will too.

I actually buy a lot of parts on Amazon, basically due to Prime shipping and since I live in Seattle some stuff comes the next day since their HQ is here.

For plugs I would get these:
http://www.amazon.com/NGK-BKR6EIX-Ir...ds=ngk+bkr6eix

For coil packs I would recommend getting a set of the 2.0t FSI coilpacks from teh newer generation Audis. They're much better and 1/2 the price. I just got some on Amazon for $14/ea + $7 shipping or something. You either need to buy spacers (from IE or 034, $80) or transfer the rubber boot from your old 1.8t coils over to the fsi coils (a bit of work, but free) to seal the water out of the plug holes though. And if you do plan on getting FSI coils, I would get these plugs instead: http://www.amazon.com/NGK-BKR6EIX-11...ngk+bkr6eix-11
Note the "-11" at the end of the part number. That means the gap is set to 1.1mm from the factory. Normally gap is specified at .8mm for the 1.8t, but the FSI coils provide a hotter spark and thus you can use the larger gap to gain a bit of efficiency and a bit smoother running from the engine. Theres a long thread on this, just search FSI Coils.

As far as what oil to use, you'll get strong opinions from everyone about it, but I personally use Shell Rotella T6. You can find it at WalMart and most Autoparts stores. Even Amazon actually. Its only sold in Gallon containers, but just get two and you'll have a bit left over for the next change. You can honestly use whatever you want BUT it MUST be full synthetic and either 0W30, 5W30 or 5W40.

For OEM parts I usually order from Genuineaudiparts.com. You need to know the actual Audi part number though otherwise their site is difficult. ECS is a great resource as far as finding parts, and searching for things when you need to find it by its picture (if that makes sense). Europaparts.com is also great, and Hugh (their rep on here) is the man.

JHM and 034 are both great vendors too and provide some really top notch products. For your PCV refresher I highly recommend the 034 Silicon PCV kit. Its awesome, and far far cheaper than trying to go all OEM. More durable too since its made from silicon not brittle plastic.

Theres a wealth of info on here, just search and read and search and read, and you'll find basically anything you would care to know about these cars.

Also get a big metric toolset from Home Depot or Harbor Freight and a decent Torque wrench. A torque wrench is often overlooked but for some things, getting the proper amount of torque on the bolt is really vital. Amazon has some good deals on tools, but don't go too cheap as the really cheap ones aren't very durable.

[EBG 18T]

Don't forget europaparts.com . They are in nj and ship most parts same dy. you woud have them cheap and quick to nj. they are also a forum sponsor.

http://www.europaparts.com/

[B72011]

If you look at the back of some of the European car mags found at your local big box bookstore--you'll see a HArbor Freight coupon for a $9.99 1/4 or 3/8 or 1/2 " torque wrench. I used the 1/2" with an adaptor for my timing belt.
I was a little apprehensive using a 1/2" one but then noticed that HF offered a digital version with adaptor bits --so i figured that would be fine. They say they good +/- 4* on those --so I just went up 1 ft/lbs on all my adjustments to compensate for it--figured just a hair tight would be ok.

[melo217s]

Thanks for all the references and support!

We are your one stop shop! We have everything thing from tools, fluids, Genuine Audi parts, aftermarket replacement parts, performance products, and even great DIY's in PDF and video form!

We also now have a few different shipping options!

If you ever have any questions feel free to shoot me a PM and I'll be happy to help!

Jason

Hi Jason,
Can you please give me a quote on the parts I need for these:

Replace both License Plate Assembly - left license plate is corroded
Replace LH RR Bulb Circuit Board - left rear taillight circuit board is corroded, warning light on left rear fog lamp
Replace 3rd Stop Lamp Assembly - one of the 3rd stop lamp bulbs are out

Thanks. I'll also send you a PM just in case you miss this.

[heywier427]

im probably 10 minutes away from you.

you pick up the parts, and we'll have it all done in a few hours.

labor rate is half of anyone, and we specialize in audi/vw.

pm me if you'd like.

[FormulaOne]

Thanks for all the info :D . Found a lot of useful stuff in this thread.

[melo217s]

Thanks Charles!

I am following your suggestions on which to buy for spark plugs and the oil change and filters.

I am sorry I am pretty ignorant about the FSI coils and spacers. I am very interested in doing this, however, since I read also that this gives more efficiency for the 1.8t. So may I ask for the specific parts # for the set or kit that comes with this?

Spark plugs: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...1&s=automotive

The 2.0t FSI coilpacks from the newer generation Audis. ($14/ea + $7 shipping or something).
And the spacers (I am open to doing the boot transfer, but I haven't done this before, so the 'bit of a work' might be a pain for me).

I found your PCV refresher site and is about to buy this set:
http://www.034motorsport.com/engine-...e-p-21950.html

I am on the Harbour Freight website and wondering which specific ones to buy, as per your advice:
"A big metric tool set and a decent Torque wrench."

Here's what I have in my cart so far:

http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eig...rench-807.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-piec...set-93265.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece...set-67976.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/mechani...ium-68307.html

I don't know whether these ones were the best brand or that they specifically match for my particular needs just yet. Or whether I need to add more to these.

So I would really appreciate your help and advice. Thanks again for the substantial post. I am learning a lot from you and Audizine.
I am sending a PM just in case you haven't subscribed to the thread and wouldn't read this in time. Thanks again.

Hey man welcome to the club. When I got my b6 almost 2 years ago, I'd never even changed the oil in my car. I've learned a ton because of this place, sounds like you will too.

I actually buy a lot of parts on Amazon, basically due to Prime shipping and since I live in Seattle some stuff comes the next day since their HQ is here.

For plugs I would get these:
http://www.amazon.com/NGK-BKR6EIX-Ir...ds=ngk+bkr6eix

For coil packs I would recommend getting a set of the 2.0t FSI coilpacks from teh newer generation Audis. They're much better and 1/2 the price. I just got some on Amazon for $14/ea + $7 shipping or something. You either need to buy spacers (from IE or 034, $80) or transfer the rubber boot from your old 1.8t coils over to the fsi coils (a bit of work, but free) to seal the water out of the plug holes though. And if you do plan on getting FSI coils, I would get these plugs instead: http://www.amazon.com/NGK-BKR6EIX-11...ngk+bkr6eix-11
Note the "-11" at the end of the part number. That means the gap is set to 1.1mm from the factory. Normally gap is specified at .8mm for the 1.8t, but the FSI coils provide a hotter spark and thus you can use the larger gap to gain a bit of efficiency and a bit smoother running from the engine. Theres a long thread on this, just search FSI Coils.

As far as what oil to use, you'll get strong opinions from everyone about it, but I personally use Shell Rotella T6. You can find it at WalMart and most Autoparts stores. Even Amazon actually. Its only sold in Gallon containers, but just get two and you'll have a bit left over for the next change. You can honestly use whatever you want BUT it MUST be full synthetic and either 0W30, 5W30 or 5W40.

For OEM parts I usually order from Genuineaudiparts.com. You need to know the actual Audi part number though otherwise their site is difficult. ECS is a great resource as far as finding parts, and searching for things when you need to find it by its picture (if that makes sense). Europaparts.com is also great, and Hugh (their rep on here) is the man.

JHM and 034 are both great vendors too and provide some really top notch products. For your PCV refresher I highly recommend the 034 Silicon PCV kit. Its awesome, and far far cheaper than trying to go all OEM. More durable too since its made from silicon not brittle plastic.

Theres a wealth of info on here, just search and read and search and read, and you'll find basically anything you would care to know about these cars.

Also get a big metric toolset from Home Depot or Harbor Freight and a decent Torque wrench. A torque wrench is often overlooked but for some things, getting the proper amount of torque on the bolt is really vital. Amazon has some good deals on tools, but don't go too cheap as the really cheap ones aren't very durable.

[melo217s]

I just bought a Car and Driver mag and went straight to the back for the coupons. LOL
I only found these from what you mentioned:

http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eig...rench-807.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-piec...set-93265.html

I am thinking to add the extensions but didn't know which one is best.

http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece...set-67976.html

Are these OK? I don't know what else to buy or add. Thanks for the helpful advice.

If you look at the back of some of the European car mags found at your local big box bookstore--you'll see a HArbor Freight coupon for a $9.99 1/4 or 3/8 or 1/2 " torque wrench. I used the 1/2" with an adaptor for my timing belt.
I was a little apprehensive using a 1/2" one but then noticed that HF offered a digital version with adaptor bits --so i figured that would be fine. They say they good +/- 4* on those --so I just went up 1 ft/lbs on all my adjustments to compensate for it--figured just a hair tight would be ok.

[Seerlah]

You can replace all that stuff yourself. And replace your timing belt. You are reaching that change interval number pretty quick (going by real world belt snapping/tensioner failing experiences).

[melo217s]

Awesome heywier427.
I'd rather put my trust on an Audizine senior and proud owner of an 04 Audi 1.8tQ than anyone else to lay a hand on my Audi. :)
I would love your comments also on the parts that I am buying right now.
And thanks for the great offer!

im probably 10 minutes away from you.

you pick up the parts, and we'll have it all done in a few hours.

labor rate is half of anyone, and we specialize in audi/vw.

pm me if you'd like.

[melo217s]

Hi Jason,

What is the parts number for the rear fog light? I am about to make my purchase at ECS Tuning and wanted to add that bulb. Thanks!
I have sent you a PM, too.

Thanks for all the references and support!

We are your one stop shop! We have everything thing from tools, fluids, Genuine Audi parts, aftermarket replacement parts, performance products, and even great DIY's in PDF and video form!

We also now have a few different shipping options!

If you ever have any questions feel free to shoot me a PM and I'll be happy to help!

Jason

[melo217s]

Thanks for the advice, Seerlah.

May I please ask which timing belt kit would you recommend?

(1) Blau Parts: http://www.blauparts.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GH21133-2
(2) IE: http://www.intengineering.com/oe-tim...8-1-8t-engines
(3) Europa Parts: http://www.europaparts.com/timing-be...early-vin.html
(4) ECS Tuning: http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B6_A4-....8T/ES2569782/

And what are essential accessories and add-ons to this DIY?
Thanks!

You can replace all that stuff yourself. And replace your timing belt. You are reaching that change interval number pretty quick (going by real world belt snapping/tensioner failing experiences).

[EBG 18T]

Thanks for the advice, Seerlah.

May I please ask which timing belt kit would you recommend?

(1) Blau Parts: http://www.blauparts.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GH21133-2
(2) IE: http://www.intengineering.com/oe-tim...8-1-8t-engines
(3) Europa Parts: http://www.europaparts.com/timing-be...early-vin.html
(4) http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B6_A4-....8T/ES2569782/

And what are essential accessories and add-ons to this DIY?
Thanks!

I would order from Europa.

[ECS Tuning-Audi]

Hi Jason,
Can you please give me a quote on the parts I need for these:


Thanks. I'll also send you a PM just in case you miss this.

Hi Jason,

What is the parts number for the rear fog light? I am about to make my purchase at ECS Tuning and wanted to add that bulb. Thanks!
I have sent you a PM, too.

Sorry for the delay I'm not in the office on the weekends. Replied to your PM!

Jason