Im looking for an AWD car and am considering an 03 x-type or 02 Audi A6. What type of problems are associated with these cars? I have been reading on this site but I thought it would be easier and quicker this way. I know the car has a timing chain which is big over the Audi timing belt. Anything to look out for/check when buying a used one. How are the transmissions when over 100K miles if the fluid is changed before hand? Any concerns about head gasket problems? Thanks.

I'm fine with maintenance, I am above average on ability. I currently have an 01 Land Rovery Discovery II and just sold my 03 BMW 325i so I know understand higher maintenance cost/work but I do about everything myself if possible

 

Find yourself a lower mileage 5 speed 04 or newer. Autos are a weak spot. The transfer case is also a little weak. Can't beat the bang for the buck if you find a solid one. I paid $6k for a 99k 05 2.5 5 speed. Couldn't buy an 05 Hyundai Accent for that price.

 

It would only be an auto, how weak are they? Anyone have to replace transmissions? If so, at how many miles. I found an 03 2.5 with 69k miles for $6500, which I don't think is bad at all.

 

We've had our 03 auto for almost 3 year now. It is approaching 69k and all I've replaced is the cooling fan control module, rear brake pads and IMT o-rings and battery. No problems with either trans or transfer case.

 

I had to replace my tranny somewhere between 75 and 80k miles if memory serves. I have an early 2002. I did change the fluid regularly, but my problem was a catastrophic failure, not really a fluid related problem. This could happen with any car.

I would certainly buy this car again. You sound like you are handy (if you have a Land Rover then you must be), so you'll likely find this car to be a bargain. Head gaskets are not a common problem with the X. Try to find out the service history as best you can, perhaps ask the dealer to look the car up and see if they can tell you if major servicing has been done. Prop shafts are common replacement items. Transfer cases can be an issue. Typically both of those fail early on though, the propshaft is more of an annoyance than anything.

I agree with benebob - you could probably find one newer than an 03 for not much more money. While I enjoy the Audis and had one before (99 A6), I just couldn't get comfortable in an A6 like I can in the X. I also thought that the X handled better in poor weather.

 

I have seen low mileage 04, 05 and some 06's go for low to mid teens. 07's and 08's I have seen for high teens/low twenties depending on how low the mileage is and the options.

I have an 04 2.5/5spd and its been pretty solid for me. I always keep it in tip top shape and its excellent in bad weather. Do your research and try to buy it from a Jaguar dealership, so it comes with a select warranty 05 and newer. Otherwise it comes with a 3yr powertrain warranty if its out of select warranty.

 

I picked up an '03 just about a year ago now that had 79K miles on it. Over the last year I've put 15K miles on it commuting everyday riding it pretty hard- stop & go plus highway. The car has given me zero issues aside from replacing an o-ring that cost $2.30. It now has 94K on it and drives the same as a year ago. I'm bracing for the tranny to go anytime but so far so good. So far I have been lucky.

 

I have an 04 3L with the auto tranny and if I could do it over again I'd DEFINITELY find a 5spd. I'm trying to figure out how to get rid of the autotragic and go with a manual tranny now... LOL

 

My wife has a 02 x type with 54,000 miles. Really the only thing major we have done is the prop shaft.

 

I never had a thing go wrong with my 02. Sorry I sold it, wish I still had it.