Used Audi buying guide for dealers: models, engines, risks

Which Audi engines should dealers avoid?

The Audi engines that need the most caution are the EA888 Gen 2 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI petrols built up to around 2012, which can burn oil, and early common-rail 2.0 TDI engines with injector and emissions-system issues. Most later engines have a good record.

Engine	Where	Main risk	Approach
1.8 / 2.0 TFSI EA888 Gen 2	A3, A4, A5, A6, Q5 up to about 2012	Oil consumption, chain tensioner	Bid only with proof of piston repair or at a risk price
1.4 TFSI (older chain-driven EA111)	A1, A3 up to about 2012	Timing chain	Check for rattle and history
2.0 TDI EA189	Most models up to 2015	Injectors, DPF, emissions update	Check update and history
2.0 TDI EA288	Most models from 2015	AdBlue faults on early cars	Scan for emissions faults
3.0 TDI V6	A4, A5, A6, Q5, Q7	Expensive repairs	Insist on full history
Later 1.4/1.5/2.0 TFSI	Most models from about 2013	Generally good	Normal checks

For details on the A4 petrols, read our guide to A4 TFSI reliability.

How do S tronic and multitronic gearboxes affect value?

S tronic and multitronic gearboxes affect value because their typical faults are expensive and well known to buyers. A car with a known gearbox weakness sells for less, and one with symptoms can be unsellable until repaired.

• Multitronic CVT: fitted to front-wheel-drive A4, A5 and A6 models until the mid-2010s. It is prone to chain wear, judder and control-unit failure. Most dealers avoid it or bid low.
• Seven-speed dry-clutch S tronic (DQ200): used in smaller models such as the A1 and A3 with lower-torque engines. Clutch and mechatronic wear are common; see our DQ200 guide.
• Seven-speed longitudinal S tronic (0B5/DL501): in many A4, A5, A6 and Q5 models from around 2008. Known for mechatronic failures that cause limp mode and lost gears; see our S tronic gearbox guide.
• Tiptronic torque-converter automatics: used with larger engines; generally robust.

What should I check on a used Audi before bidding?

Check the service history, engine, gearbox, emissions system and electronics before bidding on a used Audi. Remote auction purchases leave little room for a test drive, so ask for data instead.

1. Service history. Confirm oil changes, timing belt changes on TDI and EA211 engines, and gearbox oil changes on S tronic cars.
2. Engine. Ask for a cold-start video; check for chain rattle on TFSI engines and smoke on start-up.
3. Oil consumption. On early TFSI petrols, look for top-ups and piston repair records.
4. Gearbox. Look for judder, harsh shifts or warning lights; ask for a diagnostic printout.
5. Emissions. Scan for DPF, EGR and AdBlue faults on diesels.
6. Electronics. Check MMI, lights and driver assistance systems for faults.
7. Recalls and updates. Confirm that emissions software updates and recalls have been carried out.

Our guide to auction condition reports explains how to read the reports from remarketing platforms.

Audi approved used vs trade stock

Audi approved used cars are sold by franchised Audi dealers under manufacturer programmes, such as Audi Gebrauchtwagen :plus in Germany, with a multi-point inspection and a used car warranty. Independent dealers cannot offer that badge, but they compete on price and on choice.

How to compete as an independent dealer:

• Price below approved used, but not so far below that buyers become suspicious.
• Offer your own warranty or a third-party warranty product.
• Show the history and the inspection results clearly in your listing.
• Prepare the car to a high standard, because buyers will compare it with franchised stock.

How to calculate your margin on a used Audi

Calculate your margin on a used Audi by starting from the expected selling price in your market and subtracting VAT on the margin, preparation, transport and a risk allowance for the car's engine and gearbox. The result is your maximum bid.

Cars bought from private sellers or other margin-scheme dealers are taxed only on the margin, at your own country's rate, under Articles 311–343 of the VAT Directive 2006/112/EC. Many ex-lease Audis are VAT-qualifying, which changes the calculation. Our VAT margin scheme guide explains the difference.

MyCarDealer calculates the market price for the same model, generation, engine and year in your country, the margin after VAT, transport and preparation, and the maximum bid at auction; its Chrome extension shows that margin directly on auction pages. You can value a car for free or request access.

Frequently asked questions

Is it a good idea to buy a used Audi?

Yes, if you choose a model and engine with a good record and the car has a clear history. Audis have broad demand across Europe, and later engines are generally reliable.

What is the best second hand Audi to buy?

For dealers, a B9 A4 Avant or Q5 with a 2.0 TDI or later 2.0 TFSI, or a recent A3 petrol, offers the best balance of demand, supply and reliability.

Which Audi to stay away from?

Be careful with early 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI petrols up to about 2012 that may burn oil, multitronic CVT cars and S tronic cars with gearbox symptoms. Avoid any Audi with no service history.

What is the most reliable used Audi to buy?

Audis with the EA288 2.0 TDI or a later TFSI engine and a manual or torque-converter automatic are usually the most reliable. Full service history matters as much as the engine choice.

What does Audi approved used mean?

It means the car is sold by a franchised Audi dealer under the manufacturer's programme, with an inspection and a used car warranty. In Germany, the programme is called Audi Gebrauchtwagen :plus.