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Audi newbie - A8 Questions

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Old 12-06-2016, 04:46 PM
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Default Audi newbie - A8 Questions

Hello all!

I'm currently searching for a 2010 or 2011 A8L to replace my BMW 750 and have a few questions. All Help Appreciated!

  • Is the 2011 that much of an improvement over the 2010?
  • What is the upper mileage area where major (expensive) components start needing replacement (BMW's usually need control arms around 80k for example)?
  • What are the must haves on a 2010 A8L? 2011?

I'm currently leaning toward a 2011 but there are several very well priced 2010's in this area (Northern Virginia)

All sage advice and experience welcome.
Thanks!
Old 12-06-2016, 05:39 PM
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Yes, the 2011 really is that much of an improvement. Must haves include adaptive cruise and cooled/massaging seats. I really liked the reclining rear seats but that's not a must have for everyone.
Old 12-07-2016, 04:47 PM
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Thanks:

Drove a 2011 today. It seemed like the front end was floating and a little bouncy. Is this typical of the A8?
Old 12-07-2016, 05:05 PM
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Originally Posted by slamdunkpro
Thanks:

Drove a 2011 today. It seemed like the front end was floating and a little bouncy. Is this typical of the A8?
No, that's not normal. Sounds like the front shock are shot. How many miles?
Old 12-07-2016, 05:24 PM
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Originally Posted by KnappAttack
No, that's not normal. Sounds like the front shock are shot. How many miles?
110k
Old 12-07-2016, 05:30 PM
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Are you sure it didn't have a coil conversion? I know some have had that problem with the conversion. Otherwise, I'm not sure it's a shock issue, being air shocks they should work or not work. I suppose the damper in the shock could be bad, but it's very unusual. In any case, something is wrong with the one you drove, I wouldn't take much stock in it.
Old 12-07-2016, 06:20 PM
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Originally Posted by Jack88
Are you sure it didn't have a coil conversion? I know some have had that problem with the conversion. Otherwise, I'm not sure it's a shock issue, being air shocks they should work or not work. I suppose the damper in the shock could be bad, but it's very unusual. In any case, something is wrong with the one you drove, I wouldn't take much stock in it.
No I'm not. Is there an easy way to tell? Is there a quick check to see of the air suspension system is working?
Old 12-08-2016, 01:39 AM
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Yep, try to raise it with the MMI. If your drive modes or lift is grayed out, it has issues. Raising the ride height is selectable from the main car menu.
Old 12-08-2016, 04:17 AM
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I too came from a BMW 750 (2011) to an A8 (2013), and love the car. I would be wary of a 110k mile car personally, but so far my car has had no major issues so maybe the high mileage is ok.
Old 12-14-2016, 04:29 AM
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I know that the 2013 A8's are a steal. Mine is rock solid (not for sale though) but it has tanked in value. I have about 35,000 miles on it and it is only worth about $35k I believe. If you are buying a car with 110k on the odometer, you may be shelling out $7,500 in repairs quite quickly so I would strongly advise you to look at a newer model or an A6. These cars can get expensive in the repair shop... Just my opinion and observation...

Last edited by luxury1; 12-14-2016 at 04:36 AM.



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