Common maintenance issues for Q7?

[JohnnyTooBad]

My B7 A4 Avant (2006) just got trashed in an accident (The wife was the only one in the car, and other than some bruises and scratches from the air bag deploying, she's ok). But with a in insurance value of only about $3k, I'm only going to be getting enough for a down payment, and will need to buy another car.

I used the Avant as my DD, and my ski car, although the whole family skis (4 kids). So I'm considering a Q7 from the '09-'11 range, or a slightly newer A4 Avant. If I do this, then when our 15 year old minivan gives up the ghost, I can just get a small car to replace it. I can't afford anything newer than that.

I try to do all maintenance on my cars myself. I was able to to fix everything that ever needed fixing on my A4 Avant myself, with lots of help from Audizine. So I'm looking to find out if there are any common issues I should know about the Q7s from that time period. There is a nice '09 4.2 at a nearby dealership, and a '13 TDI, that's about $5k more. I think I'd love the power. Are most people satisfied with the 3.6L?

Fill me in on the good, the bad and the ugly about these beasts.

Thanks!

[Pierce330]

In my opinion, I would stay away from the TDi. This is because I do not really want to deal with the diesel related issues. I used to own a 2009 4.2 Touareg. It was awesome, but really thirsty. From what I've read, the 3.0 supercharged motor is quite reliable. I guess, it comes down to what you want. It seems like you are open minded in terms of the power train. It also depends on the maintenance history of the Q7 that you are looking at. I just purchased my Q for my wife, with full maintenance history. I would get a PPI if you have not history but really want the vehicle.

Again, just my 2 cents.

[flat12]

I have an 07 with the 4.2 engine, tow package, 3rd row seat, air suspension, keyless entry, side-assist, etc.....but oddly no sunroof. I've had a few issues, but Id' imagine things would be better with the later models as things improve every year. Based on my ownership some issues are: various oil leaks, drive shaft carrier bearing mount failure , high pressure fuel pump failure, carbon build up on the intake valves, and occasional electrical gremlins. The power of the 4.2 is okay, but with a nearly 6,000 pound vehicle...you won't have neck-snapping acceleration. To me the positive points are the looks, lots of room inside, I love the air suspension - which has given zero problems, and we've pulled some pretty big and heavy trailers and the Q7 does VERY well. Overall I've been very happy. Our Q7 has been very good to us, but in the next few weeks I will be selling the old girl... I'm moving on to a Maserati Quattroporte.

[BarryT82]

I had two Q5 3.0 TDIs and never had any issues with either of them.