1483 messages,
Last post on Jul 23, 2010 at 11:27 AM
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Audi A8 Forum.
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Audi A8, Sedan
#1434 of 1483 There's a reason the Phaeton isn't around anymore...
by theanimal
Aug 20, 2008 (6:35 am)
It is built off of the A8, but since it is an all steel bodied car it is much heaver than the A8L. The Phaeton is a sort of lumbering car compared to the sportiness of the Audi. I have only had my 05 A8L for a little over two weeks now and I am really impressed with how it drives like a much smaller car. Only pulling into parking spaces does it seem any larger then my 98 GS400.
I considered the Phaeton until I thought of all of the reliability issues with it (same with the A8, that's why I wouldn't consider a 2004 model, only 05.5 and newer) and the lack of parts/dealers who know anything about it, made me realize a few thousand dollar increase for a used A8 was worth the money.
#1435 of 1483 1997 A8 3.7....Need Input PLEASE!!!
by m1e1b1s1
Sep 09, 2008 (11:29 am)
After two weeks of absolute NIGHTMARES....our daughters car was first hit, then vandalized by a rival school this past weekend...I've had it! With college coming in less than a year, we can't do a new car right now....tuition rules!
We got an email from very close friends this morning...their friends are moving out west and MUST get rid of one of their A8 they can't take them all...and they need it gone like yesterday...they just decided to get rid of it....
1997 A8 3.7
127,000
New Transmission
Excellent condition....just painted, etc....
No other problems...black, loaded, sunroof etc.
They are giving it to us for 1500....just to get rid of it, and they know we could use the help.....teenage drivers are EXPENSIVE.
What should we look for? What are common problems with the A8's....I haven't had one that was a 97...so I'm a bit lost here with this year/model. We are going to look at it tonight, with cash in hand...
Any info would be much appreciated! I have looked at pricing etc, and they are GIVING it to us pretty much...but I don't want to run into...Oh, you should have looked at etc...
Thanks all!
#1436 of 1483 Re: Used Audi A8L's [ayyate]
by ksamuel
Sep 12, 2008 (5:34 pm)
I am looking at buy a 1995 A8L. I have seen some reviews where the have a lot of electrical problems. What is your experience? Also I was told that this model does not have bluetooth; however, I see you comment on it. Does this year and model have bluetooth?
#1437 of 1483 Problems with audi A8
by slader00
Sep 14, 2008 (11:02 am)
I have a 2002 A8L - quit running. Mechanic replaced fuel pump ($1485); it ran for 2 weeks. Quit again. Sounds as if it's out of gas, but it's not. Anyone have a similar problem - better yet - know a solution. Been in the garage for 2 weeks - mechanic can't figure it out. Slader00
#1438 of 1483 Re: 1997 A8 3.7....Need Input PLEASE!!! [m1e1b1s1]
by m4d_cow
Sep 17, 2008 (10:08 pm)
I'm not familiar with this particular model, but you can try consumerguide.com. The site usually has a list of common found problems and parts costs.
#1439 of 1483 2004 A8L hands free phone
by A8passenger
Jan 04, 2009 (12:27 pm)
This question is for any of the tech geeks out there. We purchased an '04 A8L prior to reading these blogs.
I am trying to find out if there is an adapter for the phone system. This car has Onstar capability but we are not sure we want to activate it. I also need to get the maps on the navigation updated. Would really like to have a bluetooth adapter like what is being offered for the '02 BMW 7 series. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
#1440 of 1483 New Owner (FNG)
by mclovin4
Jan 21, 2009 (7:25 pm)
Just purchased a 2005 A8L for 23000,55K on the ODO.Love this car. After three tours of Iraq decided to treat myself and get something I would not nrmally be able to get.I am requesting any ownership pointers or guidance any one can give. I am learning really fast this aint the old chevy.HAHA...All service records are complete through 49000 miles.A 55K is due.And will be getting this done shortly.But if anyone has any do's and dont's they would be willing to share I would appreciate it.
#1441 of 1483 Re: New Owner (FNG) [mclovin4]
by ayyate
Jan 21, 2009 (7:55 pm)
As the first owner of a 2005 A8, I have had very few unpleasant experiences. One pointer given to me was when my car had accumulated about 36K miles and suddenly started overheating. My dealer (a high volume LA dealer) said the A8 thermostat tends to fail at around 35 - 40K miles for some odd reason. So, if yours has not been replaced, you might want to consider it.
One other point. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation on engine oil. If they insist on a certain brand and weight of synthetic oil, do it. It may cost more, but do it.
I have had a few Audi's, including two A8's, an S8, and others. I think you will enjoy it.
Jan 23, 2009 (8:21 pm)
OK thermostat and recomended oil. Will I be able to tell if it has been replaced through service records though?Going to dealer Saturday...will check it out.Audi says 0W30 ...will 5W30 work ok?The 0 is hard to find.Thanks for the response.
Jan 23, 2009 (10:37 pm)
Are you in cold country?
In AZ we use either 5W40 (or) 0W40 (if you can find it).
I use 5W40 Castrol Syntec. Check their website. Retail at PepBoys. You may be able to buy wholesale in case lots.