Buying a used Audi is an economical way to enjoy a reliable, luxury vehicle – but it doesn’t come without its risks.

The older the car the greater the chance for something to go wrong. Even if the car is only a few years old, it may have accumulated a lot more wear than its age would suggest, depending on the habits of the previous owner.

Ideally, you’ll want to find a pre-owned Audi for sale with an impeccable (or at least respectable) service history. But no matter how the previous owner cared for the vehicle, you want to start out the right way with the car when you purchase it.

There are many things to think about when you find a pre-owned Audi for sale that you like. Below are some tips on how to choose the Audi that is right for you. You’ll also find tips on having your recently acquired ride inspected by our talented staff here at Hance’s European in Dallas.

We’re exotic car experts, and we’d be happy to help you run through a used Audi inspection checklist to make sure the vehicle is ready for the road.

Common Concerns When Buying a Used Audi

So you’ve discovered a seller offering affordable used Audi cars, and you’ve found a model that catches your eye. What’s next?

Doing your research and thoroughly investigating the vehicle’s history is crucial to finding a used Audi that you’ll be delighted with. But what specific aspects should you focus on when evaluating the car?

Reputable used Audi sellers should walk you through each critical area of the vehicle, but if they don’t, you can take the initiative and conduct your own inspection. Here are the main areas you should examine:

Vehicle History Report: Ensure you obtain a detailed history report to check for any past accidents, repairs, and maintenance records. This report can also reveal if the car has a salvage title or has been in any major incidents that might affect its performance or safety.
Exterior Condition: Inspect the bodywork for any signs of rust, dents, or scratches. Pay attention to the paint job’s consistency and look for any mismatched panels, which could indicate previous repairs.
Interior Condition: Check the interior for wear and tear, especially on the seats, dashboard, and control panels. Make sure all electronic features, such as the infotainment system, air conditioning, and power windows, are functioning properly.
Engine and Transmission: A smooth-running engine and transmission are vital. Listen for any unusual noises, check for any leaks, and ensure the car shifts smoothly without any jerking or slipping.
Tires and Brakes: Inspect the tires for tread wear and ensure they are evenly worn. Check the brake pads and rotors for wear and make sure the car stops smoothly without any vibrations or noises.
Suspension and Steering: Test the suspension and steering for any signs of instability or unusual noises. The car should drive straight without pulling to one side and handle bumps comfortably.
Mileage and Maintenance Records: Lower mileage can indicate less wear, but it’s also essential to review the maintenance records. Regular servicing and timely repairs are indicators of a well-maintained vehicle.
Test Drive: Always take the car for a test drive. This will give you a real feel for the vehicle’s performance, comfort, and handling. Pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes, and handles different road conditions.

By thoroughly checking these areas, you can make a more informed decision and ensure that the used Audi you choose is in excellent condition. Taking the time to inspect these aspects not only helps you avoid potential issues but also provides peace of mind knowing that you’re investing in a reliable and high-quality vehicle.

Inspect the Exterior for That Iconic Audi Allure

The exterior of a car can speak volumes about its condition. This is especially true for a car like an Audi, which is touted for its luxury and upscale look.

Many car owners and used car dealers repaint the body panels to cover up any scratches or damages. The best way to know if the car is repainted is to open the car door and look for overspray.

Next, you should examine the headlights and fog lights. First, obviously, check if the headlights and fog lights are working. Second, check if the headlights are xenon. To check this, look for the headlight washer right below the headlights. Xenon lights need them by default.

Next in line are the tail lights. Examine these lights for cracks or scratches, and make sure all bulbs are working. You’ll also want to check that the fog lights work and that the side mirrors are in good shape.

Finally, check out the rims on the tires to make sure the previous owner didn’t scrape the curb while driving. Even if you plan to change these, damaged sections can indicate there may be damage to other areas like the wheels and suspension.

Look at the Interior Materials and Amenities

The best used Audi models will bring that comfortable interior the brand is known for – and with any luck, the previous owner took good care of these fixtures.

Examine the seat covers and car mats for any damages. Look for any scratches or damages to the dashboard, cup holders, and speaker tray. You should also check the audio system thoroughly. Audi cars fall in the luxury bracket and usually have high-end music systems. If the owner has not made any after-market changes to the audio system, then the car should be equipped with a Bang & Olufsen Sound System.

The benefits of buying a used Audi are that you get to enjoy many of the brand’s luxury and convenience amenities for a reduced price. Here are some more features that you need to check before signing the dotted line.

Bluetooth Car Phone
Anti-Theft Alarm
Driver Select (Check for three modes: comfort, auto, or dynamic)
Lane Assist
Driver Seat Memory Functions
Homelink
Light and Rain Sensors
Multimedia Interface (MMI)

The sun/moon roof of the car should also be checked for any defects. Press the appropriate buttons, and check its operation at every stage. It should slide smoothly without making any noise. The heated steering wheel should also be checked if the model you are planning to buy has one.

Remember, finding a pre-owned Audi for sale is like finding a rare treasure – but it’s important to look within and make sure the inner details are up to your standards.

Listen to the Engine, Then Prepare to Call Hance’s

One of the best tips for buying a used Audi is to bring expert insight into the process. Even if you aren’t a mechanic yourself, you can bring your Audi to Hance’s after purchase to have us inspect and improve the finer details.

But until that time, how can you check to make sure the engine is in good enough condition that you can trust it, and deem it worth your money?

First let it run, and listen to it. Ideally, you’ll want to do this while you’re sitting inside. This way you can also feel the engine running in addition to hearing it. It provides a double opportunity for you to see if this crucial component is performing at a consistent pace.

As for the oil, see if the owner has receipts for the changes. You can bring the information to us, and we can check that the oil used was in the list of oils approved by Audi. Also make sure you ask the previous owner if any engine components have been repaired or replaced. It helps to know whether you’re working with a standard loadout or one that’s been modified.

If you aren’t sure, never fear – you’ve got a skilled team of European car experts here at Hance’s who are eager to assist you.

How Hance’s Can Help with Your Used Audi Inspection Checklist

For those who are knowledgeable about the best used Audi models on the market and have found reliable sellers offering what they desire, this is an exciting moment. You’re on the brink of driving away in your dream car!

However, to ensure your journey remains as thrilling as it should be, it’s crucial to confirm that your vehicle is in top-notch condition. While we could provide you with numerous tips for buying a used Audi, the most valuable advice we can offer is to bring your luxury car to us for a thorough inspection and maintenance.

Our skilled team is dedicated to examining your new purchase meticulously, ensuring that it feels just like new. Even if your Audi has had a previous owner, our expert service will make it seem as though it just rolled off the manufacturer’s lot. We’ll provide the comprehensive care needed to maintain the high standards of performance and luxury that Audi is known for, giving you the confidence and satisfaction that comes with driving a truly exceptional vehicle.

What Audi Service Can You Expect from Hance’s?

Here at our facility for expert European auto service, we can provide everything from routine maintenance to extensive repairs.

When you bring your vehicle in, we can give it a thorough inspection. This covers all the basic and fundamental steps that will keep your used Audi running like new. You can count on us to:

Check and top off all fluids
Top off tires and rotate if necessary
Inspect brakes and suspension components
Check electronic components and amenities
Perform any necessary software updates

These are just a few of the services you can expect from us. With a routine consisting of these and other helpful maintenance solutions, your used Audi will be ready for the road as your primary car in no time.

Get Replacements, Upgrades, and More

When you’re buying a used Audi, you may find that the interior and exterior look fine – but the wear on those components under the hood can be hard to spot at first.

However, we’ve got the knowledge and tools to tell when parts need to be replaced or upgraded. Count on us to help you get what you need including fresh oil and AC filters, new spark plugs, performance tires, belts, hoses, and anything else that may need replacing in your vehicle.

With these improvements, your vehicle will only feel “used” in the sense that it falls into the category of affordable used Audi cars. The parts and the performance will both feel new, just like this new chapter you’ll embark on of enjoying your amazing luxury Audi.

Buying a Used Audi? Contact Hance’s European in Dallas

When you’ve found your dream pre-owned Audi for sale, you may be ecstatic and have big plans for it.

Where will you take your first trip? Who will be the first person you show your new car off to? When you’re considering these questions, don’t forget the equally crucial questions about how to care for your new used car.

Here at Hance’s, we bring everything you want in an Audi servicing specialist. Our skilled team is:

Experienced specifically with Audi models
Highly rated by past customers
Equipped with high-quality facilities and tools

The experts at Hance’s European in Dallas can ensure your car looks and operates to the best of its ability. We also offer 3 year/36,000 mile warranties on all service.

To make an appointment with our shop, open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., reach out today.

Also, don’t forget to check our regular specials for ways you can save money!