Im new to the forum and am very curious about considering a 2004-2006 A8. I ve been a satisfied Lexus owner for about 8 years and will be looking to purchase in the next few months. I have been stuck on getting a Lexus LS430 2004-2006, but I have always loved the A8 but know nothing at all about Audi. Since i dont know how Audi cars are (maintainence, reliability, etc.) Im a little aprehensive about purchasing one but would like to feel more comfortable. So any suggestions or opinions as far as the 2004 -2006 model years are welcomed. Hopefully everyone here can get me a little closer to Audi!

 

Either click the "back" button, and then click on the sticky about A8 Maintanence...

Or, be lazy and click HERE:
https://www.audiforums.com/forum/sho...d.php?t=133635

 

From what I've heard, the 04 is to be avoided.

 

04 is to be avoided, 05 in my opinion has the great and more aggressive looking front grill without the look of the new fat lip look of the newer ones. 06+ are good and worked out the kinks and have the new FSI engine (I can't notice a difference) but once you get into 06+ your going to pay quite a bit more. Also set aside about $1-$1.5k a year for normal maintenance/ minor repairs.

 

I have an "04" A8 I dont have any problems at all, purchased 2 months ago with 74k miles..
I do recommend a 1 owner A8 with all the service history, which what mine was..
05' an newer does have the updated facia (grill) which also means they have bluetooth (some) 04's dont..
Brozee is correct thought, regular maintenance is PRICEY $900 to $1200 for a brake job..