Audi. The name Audi has captivated many car enthusiasts as it symbolizes luxury cars, high performance, and sophisticated design. However, when considering buying a used Audi, have you ever heard the opinion that “it’s better to avoid buying a used Audi?”
“I’m considering buying a used Audi, but is it really okay to buy it?”
Many people have this question. While Audi is certainly an attractive German luxury car brand, there are many pitfalls lurking when buying a used car.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain the risks that you should be aware of before purchasing a used Audi, and how to make a smart choice if you still consider purchasing one .
Should I avoid buying a used Audi? Summary
The appeal of Audi
- Sophisticated design (sporty and elegant)
- High performance (quattro, powerful engine)
- Advanced technology (virtual cockpit, etc.)
- Brand image (status as a luxury car)
The benefits of buying a used Audi
- Cheaper than a new car
- Plenty of options
- Large drop in price
Disadvantages and points to note about buying a used Audi
- High maintenance costs (taxes, insurance, fuel, etc.)
- High repair costs (advanced technology, expensive parts)
- High risk of failure (electronic control system, complex mechanism)
- Poor fuel economy (high performance engine)
- There are few authorized dealers
Used Audis are recommended for these people!
- I admire the Audi brand.
- I want to focus on driving performance and design
- Maintenance and repair costs are affordable
- I know a lot about cars and can do my own maintenance
- Knowledgeable about choosing a used car
Why is Audi so popular?
While some people say that it’s best to avoid buying a used Audi, Audi remains a deeply popular brand. The appeal of Audi lies primarily in its sophisticated design. Its simple yet refined appearance, combining sportiness and elegance, attracts many drivers. The allure of Audi is also evident in its quattro all-wheel-drive system, powerful engines, and excellent driving performance. Furthermore, cutting-edge technologies such as the virtual cockpit ensure a comfortable and safe drive, and Audi’s status as a luxury car brand is also a major factor in its popularity. These appeals make Audi a popular choice in the used car market.
7 reasons why you should avoid buying a used Audi
1. Maintenance costs can be high
The biggest problem with used Audis is the high maintenance costs.
Audi, a German luxury car, uses complex mechanical structures and high-quality parts, so maintenance costs are significantly higher than for general car models.
Specific examples of maintenance costs:
- Engine oil change: 1.5 to 2 times the cost of a Japanese car
- Requires special engine oil (high quality oil made specifically for Audi)
- Electronic control unit repair: This can cost hundreds of thousands of yen
- Regular inspection costs: High due to the need for specialized skills
Even if you inspect and maintain your Audi, the risk of breakdowns cannot be completely eliminated, and as vehicles get older, the number of parts that need to be replaced increases, so maintenance costs tend to be higher.
2. High risk of failure and complicated repairs
The reality is that used Audi cars are prone to breakdowns.
Audis have advanced technology and complex mechanical structures, so over time parts wear and age, increasing the risk of breakdowns.
The main areas prone to failure:
- High-performance engine system
- Electronic Control System
- Infotainment System
- Complex electronic devices
In actual user reviews, there are many reports of engine-related and electronic system failures .
3. Parts are difficult to obtain and repairs take time.
There are problems with procuring parts that are unique to imported cars.
Audi is a German luxury car brand, so it can take time to source parts in Japan.
Parts procurement challenges:
- Parts that are not in stock in Japan must be ordered from the country of origin.
- It can take weeks or even months for parts to arrive.
- Difficulty in procuring special electronic components and interior parts
- You cannot use your car during the repair period
“Parts availability and cost need to be considered,” it said.
4. Manufacturer warranties are highly restrictive
You can’t expect a comprehensive warranty on a used car.
New Audis come with a comprehensive warranty that lasts for several years, but on used cars this warranty is often significantly limited or has already expired.
Warranty challenges:
- New car warranty is short-lived or has expired
- Repairs of major parts (engine, transmission) are at actual cost
- Risk of having to pay all the expensive repair costs yourself
- Electronic system failures are particularly expensive
5. Poor resale value
Used Audi cars depreciate rapidly.
According to Gulliver’s resale rankings , even the popular Q8 model loses value by about 30% after four to five years, resulting in a large financial loss when it is resold.
Reasons for the decline in value:
- Frequent new models
- Technology becomes obsolete quickly
- Oversupply in the used car market
- Imported cars have a unique depreciation rate
6. There are only a limited number of repair shops with specialized knowledge
There are limited places where you can get proper maintenance.
There are only a limited number of repair shops that can handle Audi’s complex mechanical structure and electronic systems, so it can be difficult to receive proper maintenance.
7. High running costs, including fuel costs
Another issue is poor fuel economy due to the high-performance engine.
High-performance models in particular have poor fuel economy, and many models require premium gasoline, so fuel costs tend to be high.
Still, what is the appeal of a used Audi?
On the other hand, with the right knowledge and preparation, used Audis have many attractive aspects.
1. Overwhelming cost performance
Experience a luxury car at a price significantly lower than the price of a new car.
In some cases, an Audi that cost 8 million yen new can be purchased for around 4 million yen a few years later, meaning that even those on a limited budget can enjoy a high-quality driving experience.
2. Wide range of model variations
There is a wide range of options to suit a variety of needs.
- From the compact A1 to the family-friendly Q Series SUV
- High-performance S series and RS series
- The environmentally friendly e-tron series
- Various model years and specifications available
3. High-quality German engineering
You can experience the same high quality and performance even with a used car.
- Quattro all-wheel drive system for superior traction
- Precision Suspension System
- High-quality interior including luxurious leather seats
- Advanced safety technology
Things to note when considering purchasing
If you are considering buying a used Audi, here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Thorough vehicle condition check
A thorough vehicle inspection is required before purchase.
- Check the balance between mileage and model year
- Detailed check of maintenance history
- Check for repair history
- Requesting professional inspection by a third party
2. Check the warranty details
It is important to consider remaining warranties and extended warranties.
- Check the current remaining warranty period and details
- Compare extended warranty plans
- Review coverage and exclusions
3. Consider officially certified used cars
Consider this as a safer option.
Audi Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are:
- Strict inspection of over 100 items
- Extended warranty and after-sales service included
- More expensive than regular used cars, but more reliable
4. Calculating the Total Cost of Ownership
Plan your budget to include not only the initial costs but also maintenance costs.
- Estimated annual maintenance costs
- Expected repair costs
- Fuel costs and tire replacement costs
- 5-year total cost of ownership calculation
Characteristics of people who are suitable for buying a used Audi
You may want to consider buying a used Audi if:
1. People who value a high-quality driving experience
- I want to enjoy driving itself
- Seeking a sense of unity with the car
- Finding value in high-performance driving performance
2. Those with sufficient budget and knowledge
- Understand the total cost of ownership, including maintenance costs
- We have a repair shop that specializes in Audi.
- Have the financial resources to cover unexpected repair costs
3. Those who intend to hold the stock for a long period of time
- I’m not considering switching in the short term
- Prioritizing ownership satisfaction over resale value
- Enjoy maintenance
The benefits of choosing a used Audi
The biggest advantage of buying a used Audi is that it is cheaper than a new car. Being able to purchase the luxury Audi you’ve always dreamed of at a more affordable price is a major attraction. Also, the used car market is home to Audis of various years, grades, and mileage, so you can choose the perfect one to suit your budget and preferences. Furthermore, because Audis are expensive when new, they tend to depreciate more when they become used. Therefore, there is a chance that you can purchase a car in near-new condition at a relatively reasonable price.
Disadvantages and points to note about buying a used Audi
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages and things to be aware of when buying a used Audi. First, as a luxury car, Audis tend to have higher maintenance costs than domestically produced cars. It’s especially important to understand taxes, insurance, and fuel costs before purchasing. Also, because Audis are equipped with advanced technology, repair costs can be high, and parts are also more expensive than domestically produced cars. Furthermore, Audis are said to have many electronic control systems and complex mechanisms, which means they’re at a higher risk of breakdowns than domestically produced cars. Particular care is needed with older cars and those with high mileage. Audis, equipped with high-performance engines, tend to have poor fuel economy, and with fuel costs rising these days, fuel economy is an important factor when considering running costs.
There are fewer authorized Audi dealers than there are for domestic car manufacturers, so you may find it inconvenient when it comes to maintenance and repairs.
Things to look out for when buying a used Audi
When purchasing a used Audi, you should pay particular attention to factors such as mileage, model year, maintenance records, warranty, and test drive. Cars with high mileage are more likely to have worn parts, increasing the risk of breakdowns. Older cars may no longer have parts available, making repairs more difficult. You can understand the car’s condition by checking whether it has undergone regular maintenance and its past repair history. Some used car dealerships offer warranties, so be sure to thoroughly review the warranty details and consider whether you can purchase with confidence. It’s also important to test drive the car and see its condition for yourself. Check the engine sound, ride comfort, operability, etc.
Maintenance costs for used Audis
The maintenance costs for a used Audi vary depending on the model, year, mileage, etc., but generally include taxes, insurance, fuel, maintenance, and repair costs. You need to consider these costs comprehensively and see if you can maintain it within your budget.
Maintenance costs for a used Audi
Maintenance costs for a used Audi vary depending on the model, year, mileage, etc., but generally include the following costs:
- Taxes : automobile tax, weight tax, etc.
- Insurance premiums : Car insurance premiums
- Fuel costs : Gasoline costs
- Maintenance costs : Oil changes, tire changes, vehicle inspection fees, etc.
- Repair costs : Repair costs in case of breakdown
Common problems with used Audis
Common breakdowns in used Audis include engine problems, electrical system problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, air conditioning problems, etc. These breakdowns can be expensive to repair, so you need to be careful.
Common problems with used Audis
Some of the most common problems with used Audis include:
- Engine related : Oil leaks, engine trouble
- Electrical system : dead battery, electrical system problems
- Transmission : Shift shock, AT failure
- Undercarriage : Suspension failure, tire wear
- Air conditioner : Air conditioner malfunction, coolant leak
- Other : Power window failure, sunroof failure
Things to keep in mind when buying a used Audi
When buying a used Audi, there are a few things you should pay attention to, such as buying from a reputable dealer, carefully checking the condition of the vehicle, always taking a test drive, checking the warranty details, and choosing a car that fits your budget.
Things to keep in mind when buying a used Audi
Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a used Audi:
- Buy from a trusted dealer : We recommend buying from an authorized Audi dealer or a reputable used car dealer.
- Check the condition of the vehicle thoroughly : Not only the exterior and interior, but also the engine bay and undercarriage.
- Always take a test drive : Drive the car and see how it’s doing.
- Check the warranty details : Make sure you understand the warranty details, duration, and conditions.
- Choose a car that fits your budget : Choose a car that fits your budget and takes into account maintenance costs.
Used Audis are recommended for these people!
Used Audis are recommended for people who admire the Audi brand, who are particular about driving performance and design, who can afford a certain level of maintenance and repair costs, who are knowledgeable about cars and can perform their own maintenance, and who have the knowledge to choose a used car.
Summary: How to choose a car you won’t regret
While used Audis are certainly attractive, they also carry many risks.
In particular, the following points need careful consideration:
- High maintenance costs : Be prepared for maintenance costs of several hundred thousand yen per year
- Risk of failure : Frequency of failure due to complex system
- Difficulty in procuring parts : Risk of prolonged repair times
- Warranty limitations : Risk of expensive repairs
- Depreciation : Future economic loss
On the other hand, with the right knowledge and a sufficient budget , you can enjoy the high-quality driving experience that only an Audi can offer at an affordable price.
Final decision point
- Accurately calculate your total cost of ownership
- Find a reliable dealer or repair shop
- Prioritize officially certified used cars
- Have sufficient reserve funds
- Assuming long-term holding
In conclusion, we cannot say that you should “avoid” buying a used Audi, but it is a choice that requires considerable resolve and preparation.
If you are considering purchasing, we recommend that you make a careful decision after fully understanding the risks outlined in this article.
A word from the editorial department
While used Audis are attractive cars, there are several things to consider, such as maintenance costs and the risk of breakdowns. We recommend that you use the information presented in this article to understand the pros and cons before considering a purchase. It is important to proceed carefully when choosing a used car. By purchasing from a reputable dealer and thoroughly checking the condition of the vehicle, you can become an Audi owner with peace of mind.
If you are considering buying a new car, check the price online beforehand.
MOTA New Car Quote
MOTA’s new car quotes (inquiries) are the answer! Compare quotes from multiple manufacturers for free and negotiate discounts. If you want to buy a car at a good price, it’s important to get quotes for cars with the same specifications from rival manufacturers. One technique is to negotiate the price while quoting the other car during the sales negotiations.
If you want a used car, you should check in advance.
Gulliver
You can search for used cars from unlisted vehicles. Gulliver operates approximately 460 stores nationwide, so you can search from a large inventory of approximately 500 cars arriving every day. Once you register, you can find your ideal car.
If you want to sell your beloved car at a high price
Ucarpack
Ucarpack is a new type of used car appraisal service that utilizes an auction system. Through this system, you have the chance to sell your beloved car at a high price to a dealer who understands its value. Ucarpack has 8,000 participating dealers, and the large number of bidders is one of the reasons you can expect a high purchase price. Also, unlike typical bulk appraisal sites, there are no price negotiations with multiple dealers or sales calls. This means you can sell your beloved car without any hassle.
ENG (High-value purchase of Alphard and Vellfire)
ENG usually buys cars at auctions and exports them overseas. If you sell directly to ENG, we can buy your car at the auction price. In other words, ENG is able to offer high prices by passing on intermediate costs such as the expenses and profits of the dealership and the auction listing costs to you.
Rakuten Car
After applying, all you need to do is a phone call and a one-time vehicle inspection. Sell your car easily and hassle-free! The key to selling your car at a high price is to compete for the purchase price. Rakuten Car Buyback features over 2,000 carefully selected used car dealerships. In typical buying systems, the costs of middlemen can lead to lower purchase prices. However, Rakuten Car Buyback achieves significant cost savings by eliminating middlemen. This is why we are able to offer high purchase prices.
