What should I check when buying a used Audi A3?

Question

Im looking at a 2016 A3 with about 70k miles on it and honestly im getting so annoyed trying to figure out what to look for. Ive read online that the DSG transmission is fine if serviced but then some forums act like itll explode if I dont have perfect records which I obviously dont have for this car. Im in Chicago and I need this to be a reliable daily commuter on these awful pothole-filled roads. My budget is around 14k tops so I cant really afford a disaster.

Need it to last 3 more years

Commuting 20 miles a day

Strictly automatic

What are the actual red flags I should look for under the hood?

hwetmojkyn · Accepted Answer

> honestly im getting so annoyed trying to figure out what to look for I totally get the stress! Like someone mentioned, you need to check the cooling system, but honestly, focus on the battery too. Chicago winters are brutal! Grab a NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000 Amp 12V UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter to keep in the trunk just in case. It's fantastic peace of mind for an older Audi!

zlhordylvd · Answer

@Reply #1 - good point! Honestly, those Chicago streets are brutal. Had a moment to think about this more, have you checked the water pump yet? That plastic housing is notorious for leaking around 75k. When you check the engine, look for any pink residue near the block.

Check the coolant tank

Inspect the CV boots for tears

Keep some Pentosin Pentofrost E 1.5L G13 Coolant in the trunk just in case

LisachItalk · Answer

Honestly, 70k miles is right in that danger zone where maintenance starts to really matter. Since you are in Chicago, those potholes are gonna be your biggest enemy. Suspension parts on these take a beating. Check the control arm bushings and struts for leaks because once those go, the ride quality turns to trash. Regarding the DSG, dont let people scare you too much. It needs a fluid flush every 40k miles like clockwork. If the seller cant prove the Liqui Moly DSG Transmission Fluid was changed, factor that into your offer and get it done immediately. If it shifts jerky or hesitates from a stop, walk away. Period. Here are the actual red flags to look for:

Check for white smoke out the exhaust. That could mean coolant is leaking into the engine, which is a massive headache.

Pop the hood and look for any dried crusty residue around the water pump. Those plastic housings are notorious for hairline cracks.

Listen for a rattling sound at idle. It might be the timing chain tensioner starting to fail, and you definitely dont want to deal with that repair bill. If you get it, honestly just keep up with the oil using something high quality like Castrol Edge 5W-40 Synthetic Oil. If you dont have records, assume nothing was done and just budget for a full flush of all fluids right off the bat.