Purchasing an A3 - Audi Carefree Car Protection?

[mikeinbethesda]

Hi, I am about to purchase a CPO A3 with 18k miles on it. The sales person explained that the CPO only covers defects and does not cover natural wear. He is suggesting (strongly) that I purchase Carefree Car Protection which I gather would provide 7 years or 70k miles in "wrap" protection that would include wear and tear, electronics, etc... This is offered at a high price of about $4k with no deductible or $2500k with a $250 deductible. I'm trying to determine whether it is worth it or not. I've never owned an Audi, have heard that repairs are expensive, but am not in a great position to gauge when I will likely start seeing wear and tear that could be costly. I drive about $12k miles per year, so I'd almost certainly max out on miles ahead of the 7 years. Anyone have advice? Thanks! Mike

[mikeinbethesda]

Anyone have advice?

[delz05]

never heard of this type of warranty, but before considering, I would want to see this in writing, and then see exactly what is covered.. wipers? tires? brake pads and rotors? fluids? leather seat surfaces? engine drive belts? There are too many "wear" items that can come in to play... I would want to see in writing and then get confirmation in writing as well.

[rgobantes23]

I bought a similar Platinum Plan for my 2018 Audi SQ5, also purchased from Audi of Bethesda. After the standard warranty, it kicks in to up to 120 months or 100,000 miles whichever comes first. It covers basically the same coverage of the standard 4 year warranty and extends it to 10 years. I can't type all the details but it includes, engine, transmission, powertrain, front & rear suspension, climate control, fuel (lines), electrical (including virtual cockpit, MMI, all sensors, all gauges, electronic entry systems including alarm & remote entry, windows, electronic seat, ignition coil, headlamps, turn signals, dimmer, wiper, voltage regulator, starter, etc. etc.), diagnostics, car rental, emergency road assistance and trip interruption benefit (not available for NY and CA residents) - for e-tron owners it will also cover hybrid/electric components. $3,915. I think it is worth it. Just the electrical alone, a lot of things can go wrong with all the new technology available in new vehicles.

[mikeinbethesda]

Thanks, appreciate the info! I’m buying from Rockville Audi. Pricing you noted is interesting, they are offering 7years 70k for $4000 with no deductible, $2500 with $250 deductible. Sounds like you got 100k 10 years for the same cost...how negotiable are they?

[audrobotic]

Do not get this warranty. Even the “factory” warranty is 4 yrs/50k. There is a huge markup in these warranties mostly from the guy selling them.

Research your exact model and engine and find a good local Audi specialist to take care of your car.

[doughboy17]

Dollar cost average that $4K into a S&P 500 Index fund (after the initial minimum investment amount) over 6 months and save it for potential repairs/costs after the new car warranty expires.

[Calif_Kid]

This is minor, but if you are definitely considering purchasing the CPO A3, then at least take a quick look (or have a PPI done) to see if there any any obvious issues. I purchased a CPO 2001 A6 from a dealer say 12 years ago, and when I was taking a quick look, I opened the cover to the battery and noticed the metal under the battery was rusted. I ended up buying the car, but I had them agree to provide me with a battery tray etc. due to the rust, so take a look (or have a PPI done), and if there are any issues, at least get the dealer (in writing) agree to cover or address any issues. I sold that car, but it really makes me wonder how carefully the dealer actually inspects a car if there is obvious rust when you open the plastic cover to the battery. - Jim