Expert: Jan Date: 7/20/2008 Subject: 2002 Audi A6 2.7T alternator problems
Question I recently spent about $6K in repairs for my A6 during two separate
incidences within one day. Initially the car died, and the diagnosis was a
blown alternator. At this time it was about due to be taken in for a 15,000
mile tune, during which it was found that that timing belt was frayed and
needed to be replaced. Also, both motor mounts had collapsed. The
alternator took out the battery, which was the apparent cause for the car
dying. After that was replaced, the A6 felt great for about 30 minutes. As I
tried to accelerate, the car quickly lost power and wouldn't run above 30 mph.
After taking it back in, it was determined that the torque converter was
locking up at highway speeds. After all of this the car was fixed, but I'm
questioning whether its worth it. It has about 91000 miles on it, and I
absolutely love everything about it, except the high cost maintenance. I
would like to know if this is a common occurrence for this year, make and
model. Also, is it very likely to happen again. I would like to keep the car,
but not if I have to spend 6k on it every two years or so. What do you think?
Thanks, Mike
Answer It does sound like all of a sudden you have been hit with a number of issues which should, perhaps have been spotted before. Motor mounts do collapse, but not usually suddenly. Did you get a more thorough shop to check the car out this time? It sounds like you should be fine for a while, but it is a car, and guarantees cannot be given... Good luck, Jan
