I've only been buying auto parts professionally and personally for sixty years now, so I pretty much have a perspective on what to expect, but then the wife bought a nice '18 Audi Q5. The first two parts it was missing, a new rear license plate bracket, a flimsy piece of plastic, was $160. Not happening on my watch. Then, the plastic wrench to remove the roof rack cross bars was missing; $47 for that little POS. If something actually substantial happens, not sure the heart could stand the shock.

jack vines

 

Not really so bad compared to BMW and Merc.

 

By allowing her to buy this '18 Q5, I went against one of the great lines from The Princess Bride, when Vizzini says,

" You fell victim to one of the classic blunders! The most famous is never get involved in a land war in Asia, but only slightly less well known is this; never own a German car after the warranty expires."

jack vines

 

I find preventive maintenance and minor repair work (brakes, rotors, filters, etc) on my wife's 2014 Lincoln are comparable to my 2011 Audi. It also helps to check for those weird parts online or an auto salvage yard first because they do not have to be new.

Now if you want to avoid sticker shock, stay away from Maserati ($450 annual oil changes at the dealer).

 

For Audi enthusiasts in South Africa, I highly recommend mandbparts.co.za for reliable, affordable, and top-quality parts and accessories. Their broad selection and budget-friendly prices have earned my trust.