If your motor vehicle dreams are dominated by Q7s, TDIs or A8s, then you're a certifiable Audi enthusiast. But if your ambitions are richer than your budget, you may be thinking about buying used as opposed to new. Though your savings would be considerable, it should go without saying that you should have the would-be ride inspected at an Audi auto service center first. While most used car dealers are trustworthy, they may not know Audis as well as domestic vehicles, and of course, making the sale is always the highest priority.

While the Audi auto repair and service center ought to know what to look for, it never hurts when you sound knowledgeable when you take the car in, and make sure that computerized diagnostic testing is done. For a used Audi with 75,000 miles or more some key items to have checked out include:

* The cambelt or timing belt. Although this part somewhat resembles a vacuum cleaner belt, it controls the timing of car engine's valves and will take three hours to properly remove, inspect and replace when necessary.The manufacturer recommends replacement at 75,000 miles. Was it replaced on the car that you're looking at?

* Brake fluid. This is meant to be replaced every two years, so a complete service record should reflect this.

* Transmission fluid. Audi recommends it be changed every 40,000 miles.

* Air conditioning: Sure, this is a personal comfort system, but it also purifies the air in the cabin and should be at least "refreshed" every two years.

* Tires: The older the car, the less its tires can be relied on for effective acceleration, steering and safe stopping distances. Moreover, tires with good treads contribute to gas mileage and reduced Carbon dioxide emissions.

A good way to check on the history of your used Audi is to research its CARFAX Vehicle History Report. These records key off the vehicle identification number, or VIN (found on the lower left area of the windshield), to generate details of title, accident history, odometer readings, emission tests and the like.

If everything is still looking good, the next step is to find out if the warranty remains in place and whether it stays with the car regardless of a change in possession. If you choose to obtain a new extended warranty, in the words of the old song, "You gotta shop around." That means don't just bite on the dealer's warranty product. The best buy might be found at an Audi backed service provider, or some online source, but make sure to check on the reliability of the company you are purchasing from.

Finally, not to overstate the obvious, but, be sure to do a test drive. Look for any transmission slipping or hesitation; peculiar vibrations or warning lights blinking into life on the dashboard. Don't overlook hitting the freeway where many potential problems might be noted that were absent at lower speeds; pay attention to any strange tire sounds, pulling to the left or right, cruise control, and your ease of passing. Don't forget to test the brakes.

After you've brought your baby home, be sure to keep it maintained at an Audi auto service shop. Because this is an older imported vehicle, it helps to work with specialists who are familiar with German engineering, and who have established connections for procuring older parts if necessary.

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