Audi A4 2004 and earlier

markcinti3 · December 2001

I mentioned in a post earlier that my dealer who is my friend says that it is amazing how many people will opt for expensive non-safety related items. His example was sunroofs vs ABS (obviously he is talking about several years ago).

As we have been discussing, to each his/her own. But I think the main reason the dealer said "not too many people buy -- fill in the blank" -- had a lot more to do with what was in stock than anything else.

I suspect that not too many people would want the Bose system or heated seats or Xenons, if the lot was full of cars without them.

I guess Audi is trying to actually become like other car dealers -- i.e., you test drive and buy off the lot.

At my Cincinnati dealer (Audi's and Porches at one location) the dealer claims that the majority of the cars sold have been ordered. I bought two Audi's (out of two dozen, since 1978) off the lot. I would not have a problem buying off the lot, it is just that the inventory of so many dealers (we have two in Cincinnati, for example) does not include enough combinations and permutations (for me).

My wife and I order our Audi's -- with lead times of 3 - 5 months, because the cars we want (in our heads as we drive to the dealership) have "never" been in stock.

So, my point is -- when "all" the Audis have the rear seat air bags, the dealerships will, of course, push them.

For my $.02, I would NOT have a car without them -- just in case.

myers12 · December 2001

Anyone who might be intrested Car and Driver did an article on winter driving with AWD and RWD sedans. Just go to CAR AND Driver .COM and do a search for "What Price Traction" Very intresting!

bluetrane · December 2001

Good points, Mark - I hadn't thought about the "dealer incentive" part. As the saying goes, when your only tool is a hammer, all the world is a nail.

Incidentally, I'm a Cincinnati resident too. I ordered through Beechmont, as they were able to guarantee an Avant for me before my current lease runs out in May. I vastly prefer ordering, especially in a situation like a lease when you know exactly when you will need a new car and can plan ahead. There is nothing inherently wrong with taking dealer stock, but I am picky enough that it is unlikely that a small-volume dealership like our 2 Audi places here in Cincy would have what I would want. Now if I was shopping for a Camry, and there were a hundred on the lot...

reng · December 2001

Hello to all Audi A4 1.8T 2002 Quattro owners. After reading this post for nearly a year I am going for the 2002 A4 1.8T Quattro with Tip. Should pick it up this week.

From your posts it seems like the A4 is a great car so long as you get rid of it before the 4 year/50K mile warranty runs out and you have a knowledgable and honest dealer.

Is there a reliable and honest Audi dealer in NJ? Does anyone keep the car beyond 5 years?

Thanks and Happy Holidays.

reng

shipo · December 2001

I just did a quick search on "rear seat side air bags" and "children". The results STRONGLY SUGGEST that if you are going to be transporting children in the back seat of your car, their risk of serious injury or death is increased if said car has side airbags. On the web page from "Havard School of Public Health", they make the statement that "...child passengers have experienced a net increase in fatal injury risk due to the installation of passenger-side airbags. If effective countermeasures are not implemented, the federal government estimates that an additional 100 children under the age of 12 will die each year in the USA."

That said, there is NO WAY I am going to allow my children in a car with side airbags.

Best Regards,
Shipo

bluetrane · December 2001

The jury is still out on side-impact airbags and kids. Here is a summary of what we know for sure about air bags and kids:

- Kids should not ride in the front seat at all
- An air bag deploying into the front of a child or especially into the rear of a rear-facing child seat is dangerous
- Data regarding side-impact airbags and kids are lacking, however bags that are mounted in the seats (as Audi, Toyota, and I believe BMW among others do) appear to be safer than side bags mounted in the door.
- Most air bag injuries of all sorts (kids and adults) occur with unbelted or improperly secured individuals

In addition, although there have without a doubt been scores of airbag injuries, it is much easier to measure these injuries than to figure out how many injuries were PREVENTED by the bags, i.e. how do you if someone would have been hurt without a bag in place?

Unfortunately, this leaves car buyers/parents with the conundrum of making an important decision without the benefit of conclusive data. My own feeling based on reviewing what data we do have is that PROPERLY secured child + side airbag = greater safety than the alternative. That being said, I would never argue with someone like Shipo who appears to have made a similarly reasoned decision not to get the bags. The medical literature is chock full of such on one hand/on the other hand type recommendations. My original position, which I stand by, is that if finances force you to choose only certain options and not others, go with the safety first.

slade65 · December 2001

After the holidays I will be ordering a 1.8 CVT which I hope to chip. Concerns are: is there a chip available for this engine? If not, what are prospects? Are there chip-friendly dealers out there [ I live in NJ ]? Or as an alternative, can car be EASILY dechipped for service trips back to dealer? I have major concerns about voiding warranty. Any and all comments & advices will be appreciated.

bluetrane · December 2001

Firstly, questions about chipping will be much more ably answered by the performance guys at www.audiworld.com.

My understanding is that there is not yet a chip for the 02s, but several vendors are working on them.

It is also my understanding that you can swap chips in and out for service, but that the chipped engine will generate a bunch of funky error codes that the service techs will be able to read from the car's computer. Audi can void any engine/turbo problem from warranty coverage if a chip has been used. Caveat emptor!

markcinti3 · December 2001

I remember when I was growing up (I am 50) in the 50's and mainly in the 60's (when seatbelts were becoming more widely available) the stories people would tell about how they were "thown clear" of the car when the accident happened. And they would claim "I'll never wear seat belts, blah blah blah." Then ditto on shoulder belts and many of the other safety features that have been brought to market -- within the past few years I have heard people claim that ABS is really only needed if you don't know how to use the brakes properly. ESP and other active safety aids too are criticized by some. And, you know what? An example can be found either here on the web or from a story told to a friend of a friend about his cousin in Dallas or Portland. The examples, if they could be verified, are probably at least sometimes totally true. They are probably almost always based on a true story, etc.

Now, we all know or at least have heard of people who were killed by their seatbelts -- or, fill in the blank. And, until all cars come equipped, standard with 8 or more airbags, I assume that freedom of choice will win out and that people will opt some to buy and some not to buy. I have no problem with that.

But, I agree with Rick when he explains in detail the issues with some of the active and passive restraint systems that are available -- the most important being "user error." Moreover, I agree that there is a significant difference between in door and in seat airbags. Audi uses in seat airbags and I believe that NOT getting these airbags makes about as much sense as arguing that wearing seatbelts can trap you in the car and that you are better off being thrown out of the car by the force of the accident.

Conversely, as I believe in free will and free choice, I do not criticize anyone for electing NOT to get them. But, I also believe that there is more evidence that suggests and [attempts to] quantifies that USED PROPERLY, the statistical chances are in your [passenger's] favor if you HAVE the rear SEAT (not door) airbags.

This does not mean that people have not been injured or killed while sitting in the back seat of a car so equipped. It does bear looking into to see if the passenger was wearing the lap or lap shoulder combination, etc.

I see so many people who ride in cars equipped with airbags and proclaim, "I don't need seatbelts, the airbags will protect me." Give me a break.

So, no criticism about anyone not buying airbags (that are optional). I am concerned however that the reasons stated MAY not be accurate. So, while I applaud free choice, free will and "to each his/her own," I am greatly concerned that the reasons stated are perhaps accurate from a certain point of view (just as "I was thrown clear from the wreckage because I wasn't wearing my seatbelt" is accurate from a certain viewpoint).

Many of us, myself included, rely on boards such as these for information, opinion and fact alike. At this point, I assume we would overwhelmingly agree that wearing the seat/shoulderbelt combination while driving is information that can save lives. I suppose that there is somewhat more argument possible about airbags (no matter where they are located). However, in my opinion (although I would feel comfortable if someone deemed it factual, in the same way seatbelt [safety] claims are accepted as factual)I believe that an Audi with front, front seat side, ceiling and rear seat side airbags when USED PROPERLY add an extra measure of survivability.

If you don't want an airbag for whatever reason, fine by me. But, I am concerned that we should not be too quick to proclaim them as dangerous -- when USED PROPERLY.

nobee · December 2001

I know what you mean lauk! The negative stigma against american drivers over here in Germany is horrible. Example: I've noticed how when I drive my car (w/ gov't issued plates) throughout Germany, the Germans always attempt to pass me and hardly never use their signal flashers. However, when I'm driving a vehicle with german plates, it seems that have a bit more respect and courtesy. Pisses the hell out of me!
-nobee

lauk0dg · December 2001

So you mean you are an American but resides in Germany? And German drivers thought you are one when you have Gov't license plates like those Counsulate ones and passed you without signalling? That's interesting :> Here in Chicago some people don't signal or even signal the wrong direction.....their argument is, if you signal (or in the right direction), other drivers are not going to let you in. Good thing I live in the suburbs :>

Billy

nyccarguy · December 2001

in NYC with all the Consulate plates...for the sake of my Town Hall agreement, I'll just say that these drivers don't sit well with me:)

nobee · December 2001

military joe serving my country overseas. I guess I too would be a bit disgruntled if some country came over to the states with their own rules and regulations and declared a piece of our country as their own sovereign piece of land. But I guess you can do that when you're the world's greatest superpower!
German drivers tend to be very aggressive. If you're not going at least 200kph (~120mph) you have no right in the left lane-and they'll definitely let you know about it!
Here in Chicago some people don't signal or even signal the wrong direction.....their argument is, if you signal (or in the right direction), other drivers are not going to let you in LOL! I guess signaling is a sign of weakness!
-nobee

shipo · December 2001

I lived in the City for a while (in an area with a lot of embassies), and one day, I heard a Fire Fighter exclaim, If you are looking for a Fire Hydrant, just look behind any car with Consulate plates!

nuff said.

Best Regards,
Shipo

nobee · December 2001

both bmw and the audi board today! I envy your position of having both beautiful cars in your driveway.

-nobee

markcincinnati · December 2001

Called the American Autobahn: The Road to An Interstate Freeway With No Speed Limit by Mark Rask.

It is hard to summarize a 300 page book in a sentence or two, but the thing that stikes me as the reason that 120MPH is "safe" on the German Autobahn is "lane discipline" -- no passing on the right, each lane to the left travels at a higher speed and there is a very high utilization of turn signals.

I have driven on the autobahn, most recently between Munich and Garmisch -- in a Mercedes E-class turbo diesel -- average speed in "the zone" about 190kph, peak speed -- for me -- 220+kph (and I was still being passed by other cars).

When you look in your mirror and see a car blink its left turn signal, you move over, the car passes, you signal with a blink of your left turn signal and the car ahead of you moves over. If you are in the center lane, you signal with your left signal move over to pass (left of course) then signal with your right signal and move back to the center lane.

There are few "left lane bandits" -- none that I ever found, frankly. Virtually no one passes on the right and there is an incredible amount of poise and politeness (and an urge to go very very fast). Nothing that I could tell resembled our "normal" road rage or aggressive driving -- even though driving very very fast by its nature seems aggressive (to most Americans).

I felt safer on the German AutoBahn at 220kph than I do on the Cincinnati Interstates at 80 -100 kph, primarily because so much of the [German] behavior was "predictable" -- lane one very very fast, lane two very fast, lane three fast and trucks (from left to right), pass on left, get out of the way when signalled to do so.

Now, Italy, especially Rome and Florence -- now there's another story.

shipo · December 2001

"I envy your position of having both beautiful cars in your driveway.

"

Well, not exactly...

The lease on my 1999 328i is ending in April 2002. That said, I am car shopping and am undecided between the new A4 3.0 Quattro, 330i or 530i, or of course, keeping the 328i a few more years (I only have 33,000 miles on it so far).

Best Regards,
Shipo

lauk0dg · December 2001

I have debated this topic with my girlfriend about if everybody follows the correct procedures of signalling and switching lanes when you are not faster than the car behind you, or you signal in a timely and correct manner, we don't need speed limits. Of course she doesn't agree, but again, you let your lady win the argument in order to be a gentleman :>

dsackman · December 2001

on the Labor Day Sunday traveling from the SF Bay Area to Los Angeles along the "5". I have never before in my whole life seen a parking lot moving that fast. It was bumper to bumper at 90 miles per hour with no space between the vehicles to change lanes to get out of the way of 18-wheelers or SUV's.

I feel much safer driving on European roads, even in a small rented Ford Kia.

Daniel

lauk0dg · December 2001

You are waiting for a beig Avant 1.8T, Quattro and CVT??? You mean it's on your wish list or you are actually waiting for one? There is no CVT Quattro A4's yet you know.....although it would be a blast if Audi finally got it here.

Yeah I know those moving 90mph parking lots.....we got those here in Chicago too.....and add in rain, it's terrible cuz you can't see what's in front of ya with all the rain misting......

Billy

audibon · December 2001

FYI ALL:
A friend and I stumbled upon a History channel program on Xmas Eve regarding the efforts of Mercedes Benz and Auto Union in Auto racing during Hitlers early reign. Due to the war the racing programs went away but it was really amazing what the two companies had accomplished up to that point. Any one else happen to catch this? I think it was called Ultimate cars-The Silver Bullets. Very good program for Audi enthusiasts. Hope everyone had a safe and Happy Holiday.
Brian

dsackman · December 2001

Billy,

Yeah, I know that the Avant will only be available in a few months time and then probably without CVT. There is also no certainty whether they will all be QTR or not. Apparently the Audi engineers have a bit of a space problem matching the CVT 'box with QTR. From what I have read the CVT 'box is awesome and is really the best of both worlds (Auto and Manual). I am scared to go for a test drive as I do not want to change cars at this stage.

One of my cars is coming off lease in a year's time and I trust the QTR/CVT combination will be available by then. That is what I am "waiting" for.

lauk0dg · December 2001

Yup I too believe the CVT should pair up nicely with Quattro, the acceleration of a stick shift and the convenience of a Tiptronic tranny. However now that I own my first stick shift car.....driving an auto tranny is borrrrrring :>

The only CVT vehicle I test drove was the Civic HX. It's just interesting to gain speed and don't feel your seatback slamming your back and all the jolts associated with the gear changes. The engine just hums along with the same note all the time. I like the Audi CVT commercial they have in Germany with that lady in a CVT 02 A4. A guy is driving his rough-riding car and his little plastic Elvis-like (but with white hair) dashboard doll dances like crazy. His car breaks down. He is rescued by an attractive woman, who gives him a lift in her Audi CVT 02 A4. He takes his dashboard doll with him and sheepishly installs it in her car. The doll doesnt dance because the Audi rides so smoothly. Disappointment shows on the guys face. Then he starts to tinkle the doll and it started to dance a little bit and he's happy again. It stirred up a cult that Audi started to sell the little Elvis and taking in as many as 150,000 orders. Pretty interesting. Here's the report:

http://www.drivetime.co.za/intlnewcars_audi_elvis.html

Here's the video clip:

http://www.elvis.com.au/mpg/elvis_audi.mpa

Billy

cyberpmg · December 2001

Yes, I saw the program on the 24th! I was amazed on what both MB and Auto Union were able to accomplish right up to the start of World War II. They were able to set standards in performance racing back in 1939 that would not be equalled until some 30 years later! It was truly an informative show.

I know that there are books that detail the history of Audi, but has there been any video documentaries that cover this?

audibon · December 2001

FYI:
I am not sure if there is anything out on video but give me some time and I'll try and do some digging on my off days (I have a 4 day weekend coming up!) and see what I can find out. I'll post anything that might be of interest to our fellow enthusiasts. I'm glad someone else had the chance to see it because it really changed my perception of Auto Union and MB. They really did some incredible work and paved the way later on for racing as we know it today. Thanks for the input, glad you saw it too!
Regards,
Brian

5thgearpinned · December 2001

If anyone is looking for a great replacement tire for your A4, try the DUNLOP SP5000... I'm really impressed with the tires ability in rain and snow.
For more info look at the Tire Rack page, these tires got great ratings all around.

markcincinnati · December 2001

Yokohama AVS db -- I can vouch for these puppies too -- and they are really quiet!

lauk0dg · December 2001

5thgearpinned, where do you live if you don't mind me asking? I am considering switching to 17" rims and SP5000s after this winter.....what size are you running? How good does it deal with snow/ice? Like a regular all-seasons?

Mark, are those Yokohama AVS db high perf all seasons too?

Billy

audibon · December 2001

FYI ALL:
In case you are interested Classic motorbooks (motorbooks.com) has 2 videos that might be something to check out. Both are $19.95 and cover some good ground about pre-war racing. The first is called Racing Silver-Great German racing cars. Covers the MB and Auto Union battles plus some coverage of BMW and Porsche. 90 min. run time.
The second is called Pre-War motor racing 1900-1939. No details on makes or drivers but it is an hour long so it may cover more general ground.
Last but not least a book that sounded good. Quick Silver-Development of German Grand Prix racing cars 1934-1939. B&W illustrations and diagrams hardbound 143 pages. $60.00.
Hope this helps if I find anything else I'll let you know!
Brian

markcincinnati · December 2001

Here is the blurb that is used to describe the AVS db's -- which by the way are considered, Ultra High Performance all seasons. I got mine at www.tirerack.com and had them shipped directly to my Audi Dealer who installed them.

AVS dB decibel:

"Quite possibly the quietest ultra-high
performance tire available today. AVS dB's
unique casing technology absorbs bumps
without sacrificing lateral stiffness and
combines the highest degree of comfort
without compromising handling, traction or
performance."

Nice review over on AudiWorld @ http://www.audiworld.com/reviews/wheels/wheels03.shtml

lauk0dg · December 2001

So Mark, what size AVS db's you got for your Audi's?? Looks like the right 17" ones are not available and 225/50/16 might be the only right sizes for A4's, other than the stock 205/60/15 for the pre-2002's.

Thanks for the suggestion though. I'm thinking of getting 16" instead of 17" rims cuz of all the potholes and rough roads here in Chicago.

Billy

cr8n · December 2001

I tested a 2002 A4 1.8, to compare against my other possibilities (MB C230, Volvo S60) and was a bit disappointed with the poor ergonomics associated with the centre stack, from the armrest to the Stereo. I compared the brochure pictures with older A4's (1999 and 2001) which were not as bad.

Aside from the narrow armrest that doesn't hold very much, and only changes its angle (could not believe the handbrake hits the armrest in lowest position, and is awkward with the armrest down, I found the climate controls buried in a dark and dingy "tunnel" that made things very hard to operate, especially with sunglasses on.

Previously, the stack was sloped at an angle that made controls at the bottom a bit easier to see. The 2001 model is angled so the face of the controls is flush with the knee bolster instead of recessed about 3 cm. In 1999, the most commonly used controls (seat heater, front and rear defrosters, recirculator) were at the top of the stack (above the radio). The dealer tried to rationalize the position of the climate controls on the concept of "set it and forget it". But if you find the preset temp too warm, you have to take your eyes off the road, search for the digital temperature readout and push the up/down buttons. With the red markings in daylight with sunglasses, this is dangerous.

MB and Volvo both have dual zone automatic climate control, but use dials to adjust the temperature. They are also angled for good visibility.

I through this out for comment from owners of 2002 models to see if this has been a particular problem.

rickrover · December 2001

I took a test drive in the new A4 (3.0 CVT, 1.8T CVT and 1.8 quattro 5 speed manual). I drove the CVT more out of curiosity than anything else. The CVT is a great transmission, especially in the 1.8t. I'm most interested in the quattro 1.8t with a manual transmission.

Unlike the post above, I really like the layout of the interior, including the center stack. I've found that once I've spent some seat time in a new car I intuitively find the controls, any ergonomic issues fade with familiarity.

Other cars on my compare list are the MB C240 and BMW 325. I think the A4 beats either hands down.

cyberpmg · December 2001

Thanks Brian!

I'll check these out :-)

Paul

02a4curt · December 2001

I would agree with Rickrover..After 1 month ownership of the new A4 I also really like the layout of the interior, especially the center console. You very quickly become familiar with all the controls and their location. The climate control is so accurate I find myself rarely having to make any adjustments. I have the tip transmission and right or wrong, I hardly ever use the parking brake. When I have, the armrest has not interfered with it. The console IMHO, is a piece of ergonomic perfection or at least the next thing to it. The display at night is really awesome.

jmad325 · December 2001

hey guys,
This is josh from texas. I just picked my new '02 V6 Quattro Step today in Dallas. Silver with platinum, sport package. just put 100 miles on it bringing it home. great car. Excuse the 325, its for the bimmer I traded in for it. anyway, just wanted to introduce myself, I've got to go watch this video now. josh

hyperion1 · December 2001

Manual says "sealed for life." Has anyone changed these fluids?

audibon · December 2001

Billy or anybody else have a problem with the snowflake icon showing up on their dash once it gets really cold. It was 13 degrees just now on my way to work and no snowflake. Or am I just to "assume" that it will only come on at around that 40 degree mark and then any lower you should realize that it is cold enough to be careful driving. Just curious when I take the car in for its 10k checkup I can let them know about it.
Brian

scirocco22 · December 2001

Brian-- The manual states the snowflake symbol appears at temperatures between 41°F and 23°F. I take that to mean if the temperature is below 23°F, then the symbol will no longer appear ...probably because at those temperatures, IMO, it will be obvious that it's cold enough outside that the driver will know to be aware of icy conditions on the roadway. I haven't been in temperatures below 23°F yet to actually witness if this is correct or not.

But I wouldn't put it past someone who lost traction on ice and ended up totalling the car in a ditch and then tried to sue Audi because the snowflake symbol didn't appear when it was 18° out! *heh* I know in the Ford Probe I had, the trip computer would flash "ice" for about 10 seconds whenever the outside temperature would drop below 37° ...that was kind of cool. It would even flash if the ignition was turned on at any temperature below that figure ...well, I remember it being about 12° out once and it was flashing.

--'rocco

nitpicker · December 2001

Wow, I go out of town for a few days, and already I'm 77 posts behind!

Just wanted to pose a quick question: Has anybody found an attractive way to enhance their right side-view mirror? After ~six months of driving my 2001.5 1.8T, my biggest gripe is a blind spot on the right rear passenger side. I vaguely remember that this topic was addressed months ago, but I don't remember specific suggestions. If I look over my right shoulder to change lanes, my view is obscured by the C pillar. If I rely on the side mirror, in heavy traffic I still can't tell quickly whether the way is clear. I'm 5'1" and I've tried different seating positions/mirror positions, but the problem persists. My husband, who's 5'9" and who sits with the seat lower and farther back, has the same problem. I don't want to stick some tacky-looking Kmart mirror onto that side mirror, but I'm about ready to do that in desperation. Suggestions, anyone?

scirocco22 · December 2001

Karen-- I'll be waiting with you for people to post suggestions. I haven't really noticed that much of a blind spot yet but I haven't driven the car that much. *laughs* But I'm a steadfast mirror user and never use the "over-the-shoulder" technique (even though I did teach driver education when I was a high school teacher years ago and we stressed always looking over the shoulder) because of my history of driving trucks and buses. On a few other cars I've owned, I have used those convex "stick-on" spot mirrors on the right side ...I don't know if they detract that much from the looks --hmmm, well, maybe a bit! *lol* But jeez, if they do the trick, why not?

Oh, so has anyone else have that dreaded MIL (check engine warning lamp) light up? ...I just noticed that mine's on now *waaaah* Probably because I've let the car sit for a few weeks without starting it. Hopefully it will go off after a few more starting cycles.

And Billy, do you know anywhere in the U.S. where we can buy those Elvis dolls? Probably not for it appears that they're pretty scarce in Germany right now according to that article. But I'd sure like to get one. *lol*

--'rocco

audibon · December 2001

'Rocco:
No MIL light yet

but in addition to that silly snowflake thing my wife said that the radio diplay turns on and off and sometimes it flickers?!?! We have the standard symphony radio. I had a CD playing once a while ago and it was on track 6 or so and it just stopped for no reason and went back to track one. And it was a brand new CD!?!?! I am beginning to wonder if I have electrical gremlins from Germany hiding in my trunk. Any problems like this for you or anyone else?
Thanks for the help with the display on my earlier post. Found my lower speaker cover on driver side door which is plastic is cracked and broken, oh well cold weather and some pressure can do that.
Brian

scirocco22 · December 2001

Brian-- No, I haven't had the radio display flicker but didn't Billy have something like that happen? I think his went out completely and he took out the fuse and reinserted it upside down (or something like that *lol* ...sorry, Billy, I can't remember now exactly what you said and I'm too lazy to go scroll back and find that post) and it subsequently worked without problems? So maybe you should check to see if the fuse is in securely. But yeah, "VAG" products have been notorious for their electrical problems. They've improved in recent years but probably still aren't up to the standards of other manufacturers. I remember having a lot of electrical and wiring gremlins with my Scirocco.

And yeah, the cold weather is making me notice more creaking in the interior. I have the right side back door panel creaking happening again

--and I'm noticing a rattle coming from the driver's door when going over bumps. hmmmmmm, no, I better not say anything.

Karen-- When I drove the car last night, I concentrated on how much of a blind spot was created when using the right mirror. Ya know, I really didn't find that the mirror wasn't showing the entire right lane. It seemed that I could view an upcoming vehicle overtaking me in the right lane right up until I could see it in my peripheral vision as I was viewing the mirror straight on. But I adjust the right mirror so I'm not seeing the side of the car unless I tilt my head slightly to the right and slightly rearward. In-other-words, if I'm sitting at the wheel completely straight in an upright position and looking forward, I'm not seeing the side of my car in the right mirror when I glance at the mirror from that postion. This could throw some people off because if one can't see the side of the car, then there's no point of reference and the view in the mirror might become disorienting. I've adjusted mirrors this way for so long that I'm used to tilting my head just slightly to the right/back to get a quick glimpse of the side of my car to avoid becoming disoriented when viewing the mirror. Using this adjustment gives a wider overall field of vision when viewing the mirror because it is adjusted more "outward" than probably where you have yours positioned ...maybe not much, but maybe just enough to eliminate that blind spot you're finding. I also adjust it "lower" than the normal person. I don't necessarily want to view a lot of sky in the mirror ...I just want to barely view the horizon --again, this will tend to cover more of that blind spot. So, if you were to sit in my driver's seat right now, you probably would be tempted to adjust the mirror more inward and upward from what you are used to. It might take a little getting used to but you might want to try adjust your mirror slightly "outward" and "downward" from where you have it now. But I don't know, you've already said that you've tried many adjustments so maybe you'll just have to relent and get one of those Kmart specials. *lol*

Tires: Yokohama AVS dB vs Dunlop SP Sport 5000 (Asymetrical): I too am considering 16" wheel/tire for all-season use ...specifically, 205/55-16. Both the Yokohamas and the Dunlops are classified as "ultra high performance all-season" and are about the same price. From what I've read on both Tirerack's site and other survey sites, I've concluded that the Dunlops are probably the way to go primarily because they are rated better in snow. The Yokohamas are rated better overall but not by much. If I were in a climate where snow wasn't a consideration then it would appear the Yokohamas would definitely be a better choice. Or, if I were going with a 15" OEM sized replacement, I might be tempted to go with the Yokohamas as the "symetrical" Dunlops (60 series profile) are not as highly rated in snow as the "asymetrical" Dunlops that come in the 55 series profile. So to summarize, I'm leaning toward getting the 205/55-16 Dunlop SP Sport 5000 Asymetrical to use both in the summer and winter. Anyone have any arguments to change my mind?

--'rocco

nitpicker · December 2001

Rocco, thanks. I'll try adjusting the mirror yet again. This really became a problem in rush-hour traffic when I was driving in the left of three lanes and wanted to change lanes; there was so much traffic that I coldn't quickly tell whether the lane next to me was clear -- so I stayed put rather than risk causing a wreck. But that was frustrating (and potentially dangerous too, if I'd needed to move out of that lane quickly). I'm about ready to swap you my sport seats for those nice side-view mirrors on the Forester!

Can't believe that Audi would actually make the side-view mirrors smaller in the '02 model (at least that's what some people have said; I haven't verified it). What ever happened to the concept of form following function?

scirocco22 · December 2001

Karen-- When you mentioned mirror size, it brought to my mind another theory: specifically speaking about the right mirror, the size actually doesn't really matter; what matters is the "convexity" of the glass that comprises the mirror. Maybe, by chance, your right mirror glass is flat? ...or maybe not as convex as it should be (a defect)? Obviously, the more convex the glass is, the more viewing area one actually sees. So does your A4's right mirror seem less convex than other cars you've owned/driven?? Just a thought. And yeah, I'll gladly trade ya my Forester mirrors for your sport seats!!!

) ...although the Forester mirrors on your Audi would definitely attract a lot of stares. *lol* ---well, maybe not as much as putting those California type mirrors that the truckers used to use, on your right door. :-p

--'rocco

markcincinnati · December 2001

I purchased 255 x 40 x 17's -- and I should mention, these are the factory original size that came with my 2001 A6 4.2 w/sport -- sorry for not clarifying. The AVS db's -- like all tires I presume -- do not come in every possible size. I know they don't come in 225 x 45 x 17's which are the size of tire that came with my wife's 2001 225hp TT coupe.

The positive (from users) write ups about the AVS db's would seem to me to be encouragement for Yokohama to make more sizes available.

Time will tell.

markcincinnati · December 2001

I was told that the snowflake goes away at temps below 23F and above 41F not because we humans would be shrewd enough to know that at 20F (for example) it is cold, but because the 23F - 41F range (where the light comes on) is the most likely range for their to be a CHANGE in the coefficient of friction.

Since I don't really know where the sensor is for the temp readout, I can therefore only assume that it is less likely for the road surface to change as the temperature drops from, for example, 20F to 9F (like it did here in Cincinnati last night). By the same token, once the temperature has risen to above 41, no change is likely to happen that would lower traction.

scirocco22 · December 2001

Mark-- Now that makes perfect sense ...I had to figure there had to be a logical reason. From what I've heard, the sensor is located near the air intake on the passenger side.

--'rocco

lauk0dg · December 2001

About the parking brake hitting the center armrest in the 02 A4's, yes after I put the center armrest to my comfy position, I started driving and when I was done, I put it on the parking brake and duh, it hits the armrest. No idea why that happened.....in my 2001.5 it doesn't have that problem.

Audibon, yeah I agree with all the other guys and my own observation is, the snowflake did disappear below 23F. I got some funny comments from my passengers asking me if the car can predict when it's going to snow.....hehe. My opinion is, under 23F, the roads are usually colder than freezing. Let's say the outside temp is 30F. The snow flake symbol, to me, is telling me the roads might be still above freezing (32F) and at that stage, once the snow hits the ground, it's going to melt. The problem is, once the 30F wind blows over it, it starts to freeze and that's when the slick road situation shows up. Now let's say the outside temp is 10F (like last nite). If it does snow, since the road surface is long under 32F, the snow won't be melted by the roads surface but instead just pile up or just being blown away. Of course you can argue that let's say right before a stoplight the heat generated by the tires contacting the road might melt the snow. True, at least not as bad as the roads when the outside temp is 30F. Just my $0.02.

Karen, to solve the my left side blindspot problem, I bought a cheapo blindspot spotter from Target and it got a suction cup below the convex mirror. I stuck that just to the left of the rear view mirror. It gave me a full 180 view from about the middle of the rear window and the whole left side of the car. I think you can use the same thing and make the mirror "looks" at the right side of the car. I can try that when i go to the car later today and let you know how it works out. And yes, those 2002 side mirrors are smaller than our 2001.5's. And I don't remember 100% but i think those side mirrors are not that much convex on the 02's than the 01.5's, but of course if they are really convex, given the physics of a convex mirror, the distance between you and the actual car on your right lane is going to be shortened by a lot, so drivers need to relearn that.....any 02 owners wanna verify if they got really convex side mirrors?

Scirocco, I think your MIL is on cuz you didn't drive your car enough and it's complaining :> Is it just flashing or it's solid? You better have it checked out if it's on solid. I'm still doing research on where to buy those Elvis dolls here.....and actually there are some Germans who are selling them and are willing to ship them here.....

Audibon, about that symphony radio, yes just like Rocco said I did experience a total "outage" about 2 months after I bought the car. Tried all the buttons and it's "dead". I thought it's the fuse but it's not blown.....however, the amp figure showing on the fuse is upside down on the fuse panel. Now that shouldn't matter, but heck, maybe it's dirty on the connections so I took it out and wipe it clean, turned it back to the right position, and plugged it back in. Wah-la, it worked. Try it.....and hopefully that does the trick. About skipping tracks.....I haven't got that problem yet and I play my CD's regularly. Maybe you can try to clean your CD head with those CD head cleaner..... And crossing my fingers, I haven't had anything cracked or not working yet.....and it's now 13,450 miles after it celebrated its 10 month b-day yesterday. Oh wait, actually the right side passenger vent's linkage was broken (can't change the vent direction from left to right) and it's replaced by the dealer, of course free. No big deal.

Mark, yeah I realized you must be buying those tires for your 4.2.....sweet ride I must add with those flared wheel walls.....they look so aggressive. Thanks for your AVS db tire review though. However, I think I'm doing the 205/50/16's with Dunlop SP5000 Asym too, Rocco, just like you saw cuz they're rated better in the snow. So Mark, you run 255's AVS db's in the snow in Cincinnatti? Wow is it still alright with the wide ultra high perf all seasons in the snow?

Billy

nitpicker · December 2001

Billy, thanks! I'm gonna reposition the mirror the way Rocco suggested, but I'm also gonna make a trip to Target too, to be on the safe side. The mirror does appear to be convex, so apparently I can't blame this problem on a manufacturer's defect.

BTW, guys, you'll love this: sad proof that part of this country is still in the Dark Ages. Over the holidays I was in a rough, blue-collar part of New Jersey, in a room full of people where the subject of cars came up. Somebody asked what kind of car I'd ended up buying; I still remember his response: "Audi...Audi...Ain't dat one a dem Goiman cahs?"
Sigh....

Audi A4 2004 and earlier

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