1999 Audi A4 from North America - Comments

The timing belt broke at 65,000 miles. Audi recommendation is to change it at 105,000 miles.

Audi head office were not very helpful, they said the 105,000 miles is only a suggestion. I was unhappy with this statement.

I called the dealer and they took car of the repairs. The damage was over $2,000 - I do not know what retail would have been on the repair.

The dealer service manager was very helpful whereas Audi were not.

You were lucky, I asked the three dealers in my area (washington, dc) and got 3 answers ranging on mileage for when to change the belts and opinions on whether I should / should not replace the belt.

I changed my belt at 80k miles and the old belt looked good. I take very good care of my vehicle and always use synthetic oil so my wear is usually less than others. Although I have had many of the problems others have claimed... ABS light ($1k), headlamp washer pump ($40 pump only), Airbag light ($1k), rear struts are squeaking (Audi doesn't care), right rear bearing is bad (new problem), complete electrical failure (dealer didn't disclose problem, but fixed it...? Unaccepatble IMHO). Many other problems, but you get the gist. I also primarily drive the car on the highway...