Preventative maintenance

[Simon.Harris]

I’ve just bought a 70k mile 2007 2.0TDi S Line manual estate, full Audi history, cam belt has been done (not sure about the pump). My question is this: is there any recommended maintenance that I should carry out to prolong the cars life? For example – on the E90 320d (my last but one car) they suffered from blocked oil breathers, butterfly flaps would fall off etc

[spartacus 68]

I'm not familiar with the 2.0 litre TDI, but like all diesels, regardless of mileage - then change oil and oil filter every 10k miles. Fuel filter needs to be done every 20k. You can use Forte diesel conditioner straight into the fuel filter before changing. It'll smoke when driven hard but clears quickly. Top up with fresh diesel before fitting new filter. Good for injectors, etc. Ideally I'd want water pump and thermostat changed at same time as timing belt for peace of mind. If you're changing glow plugs, then get car to temperature before extracting in case they snap. Should be done every 40k.

Check CV boots regularly and renew at first sign of rubber deterioration. Those that leave them to split then face prospect of renewing CV joint too. At 100k I'd look to change the transmission gear oil too.

Bodywork, then a decent machine polish and wax works wonders. I use Mezerna 203S and Collenite 476 and the water just beads off. Check front arches for signs of rust and treat stone chips quickly. Clean the door recesses to ensure water disperses.

Think that's about it. I suppose final thing is brakes. Full dismantle and reassembly a couple of times a year helps with general wear and tear, especially before and after winter. Lube slider bolts and check rubber dust sleeves and replace when necessary.

Enjoy the car!