Newbie questions
 

Hi folks, Newbie here.

(Before I start, this question has probably be repeated on numerous occasions, so apologies in advance). I am currently in the market for a D3 3.0TDI Sport, looking to get suggestions as to what I should look out for it terms of common issues. I know that the Sunroof drains can have issues. Is there anything mechanical or electrical that I should definitely look out for.

I am looking to get a facelift model, preferably 2007 onwards, and really would like one with B&O system which I know are few and far between but I have seen a couple for sale in my price range. Being a more complicated system, are their any know issues with the B&O System I should be aware of?

Although I have already stated I am after a Sport model, what are the main differences between the Sport and an SE, other than the Sport sits lower and has a Sport steering wheel? My plan is to change the steering wheel in future regardless to a modern Audi wheel.

Does the 3.0TDi have a timing chain or belt? If its a belt then how often must it be changed?

I will also give the engine Terraclean before its remapped, would like to get a map to improve the economy. Has anyone had their remapped and what sort of bhp/mpg gains are there to be had?

Generally, how reliable are these cars?

Apologies again for the loads of questions, but having never owned an Audi previously I like to know what i'm buying into. I currently drive a BMW 530d e39 which I have owned for the last 7 years and is now approaching 200k miles. This car has never missed a beat and mostly just cost me on wear and tear items which i cant complain about. If it wasn't for the common rust areas and rest of the car slowly but surely starting to creak then i'm sure this mighty engine could happily do another 200k miles but alas all good thing must come to an end. Its been an awesome companion but would rather let it go before it starts costing me money. Plus the fact that my car being covered in rust does me no favours in my occupation as a Detailer in which i'm pretty good but my beemer doesn't reflect this lol.

Look forward to your replies

Thanks in advance

Maj

Welcome Maj +++

I believe the differences are the sport suspension, small bootlid spoiler, sport seats, xenons as standard(?), heated front seats and DAB radio also standard. LED DRLs standard on the facelift sport too iirc.

The DPF blocking may be a concern. Remapping can increase performance to near 4.2TDI levels but the gearbox is very strong. You won't have to worry about rust on your A8 either!

I don't know of any common issues with the B&O system, just turn it up and enjoy!!

welcome Maj :).

These are large vehicles so [generally] won't be molested but ensure that you buy one that's not been neglected. Service history is a must have incl. documents/receipts to prove the work done.

i have done a lot of work on mine and don't won't to scare you off but ensure you have some £££/£'s on a side for repairs as cost to own is significantly higher that 5-series [having owned couple in the past myself]. Equally, and to finish on positive note, they are great cars to drive, very comfy on long journeys, ample of space, excellent build, lots of great features and if you could find one with B&O it is just amazing.

have fun...

The center dashboard speaker seems to blow itself regularly. I think a later firmware update helped negate this, but its not a big job to change.

Otherwise, the B&O is a joy.

My old 3.0 Tdi with B&O was on autotrader a few days ago - I was going to post a link on here but it vanished again.... That was a car worth having...

Swirl flaps is the only issue you'll see on the 3.0 Tdi. Over time, at about 120K+ the plastic components will eventually wear. Budget circa £400 per bank to resolve, but that is about the only 'common' fault to mention in an otherwise bulletproof engine.

The difference between Sport and SE is basically seats, steering wheel, suspension and wheels. There are no real spec changes between the two. Spec difference is more geared towards the engines.

Happy hunting +++

Thanks for the feedback back thus far...

This is the crux of my post. What kind of work are you referring to which you have had done? Something concerning or just wear and tear?

I appreciate that owning of car of this stature comes with its risks and expenses, but hey, if my beemer turbo goes tomorrow that thats best part of £1500. Comes with the territory of buying a used car.

Not the dreaded swirl flaps again!! I was heavily advised to have the swirl flaps removed on my 530d aswell. After 7 years of ownership, I invested in a Stainless steel down pipe, d EGR bypass valve and few other bits and pieces, but swirl flaps are still there. Engine still going strong.... *touchwood*

Take it to Audi and it'll be £££ every time. Use an independent and used parts from a8 parts and everything is quite affordable.

Air suspension is probably a cost that scares some people, with new pumps running into 4 figure territory from Audi, but can be sorted for a fraction of that with ease.

Engines and Gearboxes are robust.

Electric parking brake motors can fail, but easy fix.

Generally speaking, the D3 is a pretty solid piece of kit....

^ Encouraging!! :)

Will keep you posted on my search.

Thanks again.