This is the third generation of the Audi A4 and with it came many changes from the B6. Among the major changes was an overhaul of the B6 steering, thus creating a more responsive and handling 
friendly vehicle. The Audi A4 has always been an exceptional looking car, and the A4 replacing the already stylish Audi 80 was a great move by Audi, so the B7 is this great looking car.
Another major change which came with this model was that the new transmission was positioned in a way which allowed the engine sit further back, this aided the distribution of weight in the car thus improving the A4 handling and the new weight distribution meant less under steer. The handling was also improved with the addition of four-link-per-wheel suspension, this meant a better ride and a somewhat sportier feel to the car, and this is something they learned from the A6 and the S4 Quattro from the time. One of the other changes which came in with the B7 was a new and meaner looking front grill and a few added curves to what was already a very sleek and aerodynamic body.
So this generation of A4 is a stunning car and it handles a little better than its predecessor the B6, it looks great and it’s very comfortable and its interior is exquisite, but as always with second hand cars it does have a few issues.
If you are considering purchasing this generation of A4 keep an eye out for its air conditioning, on occasion it has been known not to cool the air and if you’re going to buy a second hand car you want to be sure you’re getting what you pay for.
Some owners have complained of misfires from the B7, from talking to some people it seems that this could be a bad fuel injector or your coils or plugs may need replacing. Others have complained of engine vibrations when the car is idle.
One more problem is the failure of the high pressure fuel pump. What happens here is that the pump sometimes doesn’t pump enough fuel; this sadly can result in the need for a new fuel pump.
Okay, so that is the A4 B7, a stunning car which can have occasional problems. If you are looking at a B7 look out for some of the issues noted above, but bear in mind that this is a second hand cars and therefore a problem or two may arise, at the same time knowledge is power and if you are aware of these potential issues you may be able to anticipate them, and if you catch any possible in problems in time you can minimise any damage that may be caused and also save some money too.
If the A4 isn’t necessarily for you why not consider a BMW 3 Series (E90/E91), a Mercedes C-Class, a VW Passat or even the Skoda Octavia.
Daragh Ó Tuama
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