Hey guys,

I'm starting to look around for used Q7 TDI between 2010 and 2012 with mileage between 75k - 95k. If anyone can point me in directions what should I look before buying and what would be the weak points on these cars.

Thank you

 

Just went through this. I'd go 2011 or later, as 11 was the first year of the eight speed transmission.
I ended up with a 2015 with a big chunk of warranty left.

 

Realistically, what you are trying to do with the TDI is avoid the known, major repair costs that stem from oil leaks (drop engine to fix), High Pressure Fuel Pump (frags and contaminates entire fuel system), EGR Cooler, DEF system, DPF, etc.

To that end, you either need a car that's got warranty remaining on it, or has already had this work done already. So far as the older ones go, @Edzzed has got a really nice 2010 for sale, and it's had all it's shots too. The primary differentiator between the older vs newer model years is the 6spd tranny vs the 8spd tranny you get on the newer model years, which adds a few more mpg into the mix. 2013-2015 cars have 2nd gen TDI engine, and can be 'tuned' very nicely thanks to their larger turbo.

Seriously though, I like the feel of the standard, heated steering wheel much better than the S-line's smaller, 'sport wheel', which is not heated...mainly it's just the feel of the standard wheel is just about perfect, IMHO. The main difference I notice immediately is in the seats, which is really important to me. The '15 has ventilated seats, which is nice to have, but actually reduces the padding in the seat in favor of airflow, making them subjectively feel less comfortable than the non-ventilated seats, unless you live in a sweatbox climate region, that is, in which case they are extremely useful/desirable vs. sweating through your clothes.

If you are shopping to a price point, you'll need to be ready to pounce on one when you find it, as they don't last very long if priced decently. Talk to Edzzed, seriously, as his '10 has had all the work done already under warranty and is in great shape, which is exactly what you want in a used Audi TDI.