Is Audi a Good Car to Buy Used?
Buying any used car can be a bit of a gamble but with a tremendous payout. If you’re looking at picking up a used Audi, you might get a high-performance set of wheels that rides great and looks incredible. Before buying a used Audi, make sure you know the manufacturer’s everyday problems and do your homework. Here’s what you need to know.
Inspecting a Used Audi
Whether there’s a certified used Audi on a local lot or a private seller, always take a close look at the car. Give yourself plenty of time to look under the hood and inspect these areas as well:
Look at the interior – Drivers that take good care of their cars tend to keep the interior clean and stain-free. Look near seams, tug at all the seat belts and make sure all the locks and windows work.
Look at rust – A spot of rust here or there may not set off alarm bells, but it’s a sign that you must look closer at other areas, including the vehicle’s undercarriage.
Get the VIN – Get the VIN and examine the entire vehicle history for accidents, repairs and other information.
Bring it by Garfield – We’ll help you make an intelligent purchase. We’re expert Audi technicians and can look at every inch of the car to help you feel confident before you buy.
Why Buy a Used Audi?
Audi is known for making high-performance luxury vehicles on par with even the best offerings from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. For example, buying a used Audi A4 or A6 can save you tens of thousands of dollars compared to driving a new Audi off the lot.
Audis are sleek and stylish and are considered one of the most enjoyable cars to drive.
Related: Are BMW Repairs More Expensive?
Known or Common Problems with Audi
Like all automotive manufacturers, Audi is known for a few common issues across its models and on specific vehicles. It’s worth noting that any automotive brand can have these exact issues and that not all Audis have these problems. Still, industry reports indicate these are the most common problems with used Audis over the past decade or so.
Electrical problems – Audis with digital dashboards tend to have problems, including simply not working or showing inaccurate data.
Leaking exhaust – Some Audi models have issues with a leaking exhaust. This is usually due to Audi’s use of a plastic part in the exhaust system.
Oil leaks – Audi models tend to have oil leaks, usually at the valve cover gasket and the camshaft tensioner.
Are Audis Expensive to Maintain?
Audi parts are expensive, although most OEM Audi parts are priced similarly to BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagen. You can always count on a wide selection of Audi parts in stock and experienced Audi technicians at Garfield Auto to keep the cost of ownership of an Audi manageable.
The Most Popular Audi Models to Buy Used
When talking about Audis, most drivers tend to think of these top-selling Audi models.
Audi A4
Considered a compact sedan, the Audi A4 packs plenty of luxury in a slightly smaller body. Its smooth and sleek design makes it one of the “racier” looking Audis without sacrificing the executive features you’d expect.
Audi A6
Dubbed a mid-size luxury sedan, the A6 is noticeably bigger than the A4 – and passengers will appreciate the elbow room. It’s packed with luxury features and is known as one of the safer sedans on the road.
10 Used Audis to Avoid
Audi’s reliability record isn’t the best, but some of that comes down to a few bad apples. There are some known issues with these models that make them worth avoiding.
2011 Audi A5
The A5 has a known oil issue that burns oils fast – and the sensor isn’t accurate enough to tell you when it’s time to change. It’s also seen airbag recalls and braking issues.
2012 Audi Q5
Remember the oil leak issues? This one is guilty of plenty of leaks and has a reputation for being a gas guzzler. The 2012 Q5 has been involved with six recalls covering airbags, fuel systems and more.
2017 Q7
As wagon fans, this one is a heartbreaker. The Q7 should have been a great car, but engineers spent too much time squeezing 333 horsepower out of a turbocharged four-cylinder and not enough time with everything else. The Q7 has been involved in 7 recalls, including power steering issues and airbag troubles.
Should You Buy a Used Audi?
You should buy the right used Audi. Before you buy, give the vehicle a thorough inspection yourself. If anything seems off, get it into Garfield Auto for a closer look. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped Audi drivers in Traverse City enjoy their cars and stay on the road longer. Schedule your appointment with us today!