[ekennard]

I agree with dwalmop, I have owned a few VW’s. I live in Maine which is one of the biggest salt ridden car eating states of the nation. The Passats are nice, and do share a lot of parts in common with the A4’s. The motors are pretty bulletproof if one follows the regular maintenance schedule.

If I remember correctly if it hasn’t already, isn’t that motor due for a timing belt change?

Do the research on the car, get records and let them do the talking for you. Otherwise, walk away.

Good luck!

[ekennard]

Having worked on quite a few DOHC 420a’s myself, I would recommend not only making sure to have the head sent out to be machined, but also make sure you replace the items in the nearby space…Why? Because you are already there and depending on the mileage on the motor, you may be nearing some other recommended maintenance.

While I was there I would replace:

Timing belt
Tensioner
Water Pump

I would inspect:

Valves and seals
Lifters
(if you are planning on doing more, I’d also check the oil pump pick up tube.)

Just my opinion. Happy wrenching!

[Author]

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