# Audi A4 2005–2008 Pre-Purchase Checklist | CarCaseFile

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> Printable pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2005–2008 Audi A4: the generation-specific checks that separate a good one from someone else's problem.

Case file · AUDI-A4-2005-2008 · Field document

# Audi A4 2005–2008 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

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Check 01

On the 2.0T: ask for proof the cam follower was inspected or replaced. No proof? Negotiate as if the intake cam and high-pressure fuel pump need checking, or have the follower pulled during the PPI (it's three bolts).

Check 02

Check the transmission FIRST: FWD + automatic = Multitronic CVT. Test drive for shudder from a stop, rubber-band surging, or flashing PRNDS lights on the cluster. Any of those, walk.

Check 03

On the 2.0T: confirm the timing belt and water pump were done on schedule (community consensus is roughly every 75k–90k miles). No record = price the job in.

Check 04

Cold-start it. Misfires, rough shaking idle, or a flashing check-engine light point to coil packs. Cheap, but a bargaining chip and a sign of deferred maintenance.

Check 05

Listen for a loud whistle/'tea kettle' noise at idle and try lifting the oil filler cap with the engine running. Extreme suction means a failed PCV valve.

Check 06

Drive slowly over speed bumps and listen for front-end clunks or creaks. Worn control-arm bushings are near-universal on aged B6/B7 cars.

Check 07

Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2005–2008 A4s are included in the Takata airbag inflator recall, and the fix is free at any Audi dealer.

Walk-away signals

Any FWD automatic (Multitronic CVT) car, all years · 2005.5–2006 2.0T with no cam-follower or maintenance history

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