The Audi is getting to the age that the shocks are starting to go. Add to that the well-known short lifespan of VAG control arm bushings of that vintage and the whole car is starting to handle like a Lincoln Town Car.
Here is my conundrum. Although it is low mileage, the car is almost 15 years old and is only worth about $5-6k. If I replace the shocks, I am looking at $400 for a cheap set of Monroe Spectrums or $550 for Bilsteins with all the installation hardware. I'm leaning toward the Bilstein for just $150 more ($38 more per shock). I found a control arm kit made by Uro that includes upper and lower, front and back, for $230.
So with shocks, control arms, installation and alignment by my local indy mechanic, I'm probably looking at close to a grand. My question is; is it worth it given the age and value of the car? What do you guys think?
Here is my conundrum. Although it is low mileage, the car is almost 15 years old and is only worth about $5-6k. If I replace the shocks, I am looking at $400 for a cheap set of Monroe Spectrums or $550 for Bilsteins with all the installation hardware. I'm leaning toward the Bilstein for just $150 more ($38 more per shock). I found a control arm kit made by Uro that includes upper and lower, front and back, for $230.
So with shocks, control arms, installation and alignment by my local indy mechanic, I'm probably looking at close to a grand. My question is; is it worth it given the age and value of the car? What do you guys think?