VroomVroom

My boyfriend is currently shopping for a car, and the A8 is really appealing to him. We have looked at a few in our area, they look great and all seem to have pretty good mileage. This is the first time we are actually looking at cars on our own, is there anything we should look for, specifically in this type of car, before buying?

Black_RS4

good mileage, proper maintenance records etc etc

VroomVroom

Thanks for the response. Is there anything special I should be looking for in an Audi though, in comparison to what I would look for in others? Is there something in particular that has caused problems in the A8 that I should ask about?

AF Site Team

Fuel mileage isnt the best and the A8L is huge. Does he have ample parking for it ?

Look for rust in the fenders and the bottom of the door jams. Also check for service records. Also see if its an off lease and if there have been any accidents.


Good luck, they're one of my favorite audis by far!

wailshark

There are specific issues to look for depending on the mileage, like timing belt and other services as well as depending on the year.

VroomVroom

Thanks so much for the information. Parking is not a problem for him, so that's fine. I will definitely look for the rust and at other issues mentioned, like the timing belt. You guys have been a great help.

Accept2

You shouldnt find much rust? The big problems with the A8s are:

Accidents - Its an aluminum space frame but the body panels are load bearing, so if its been hit, the repairs can be tricky, and you might just inherit someones dog.

Insurance/Repairs - The bodies cant be fixed just anywhere, you need a specialist. Because of this insurance can be really bad.

Parking - This is the reason I went with the A6, its not the home parking thats a problem. Its when you go places and have to park it. Its wide and long, so you may get alot of dings if you park alot in places where you have to park next to others.

I think thats about it. I would go for a 2004 and up..........

wailshark

Rust should not be a problem at all if the car is newer.
The galvanized bodies are very resistant, even here in Toronto where they salt the crap out of every single side street not to mention the main ones.

Accept2

Im still not sure how you could find rust at all, given they are aluminum...........

VroomVroom

Thanks for the information. I didn't think about the insurance issue, I will have to check with my insurance company and get a quote, see what my options are.

As far as parking, I suppose that could be a pretty big problem. Most of the places I go, I am able to find ample parking, I generally park away from other cars when possible anyway. It is something to consider though. Thanks.