Q5/SQ5 : Longevity & Practicality

[USAF_Danny]

Hey everyone,

Been on the forums for quite some time, left for a bit, but I'm back!

I used to have a stage 2 B8 S4 and moved on to an E92 M3 nearly three years ago. Two different animals with two different driving purposes.

Long story short, selling the S4 has always haunted my mind and I wish I would have kept the S4 as a daily driver. I picked up an A3 TDI as a daily/commuter over a year ago and absolutely enjoy it. But, my family is growing and my wife and I are expecting our first kid at the beginning of next year.

With that said, I've been cross-shopping a lot and after many months, I finally decided that a Q5/SQ5 would allow me to enjoy the 3.0T again, but with a different purpose this time. We don't need a full sized SUV and our Wrangler serves it's purpose elsewhere. So I think the size of the car is perfect for me.

Knowing the issues with the motor + DSG on the B8/8.5 S4/5 platform, from what I've gathered it seems like the ZF transmission is the perfect combo with the motor. Nothing sticks out of the ordinary and it looks like reliability has been great throughout the years.

Is there anything else I should look into? I have always worked on my own car, but realistically want a car that's trouble-free for at least 2-3 years. Especially with a newborn on the way.

I've already looked up the differences between the Q5 S-Line and SQ5, and don't care which car I end up in, as long as the price, maintenance history, and mileage make sense.

Those of you who are nearing or over 100k miles, how has your ownership been? Those of you who purchased higher mileage vehicles, how did you make your decision?

[flyfishing]

If you find a 3.0 q5, it is barely any difference from the sq5 (mainly cosmetic). Engine/trans are the same. sq5 has an extra cooler, but that's it.

I've had q5 for 4-5 years now for the wife. It's rock solid. I have single pulley stage 2 with some exhaust modifications. Put some spacers on, e-codes, rs-grille, carplay, new roof rails and car is fantastic. Didn't lower it b/c wife's car and I tow a boat sometimes with it. When we need more space, I add a Thule cargo carrier on top and if needed, a hitch cargo carrier too. I put nuna baby chairs in the car and it fits well. Also as you know, oil filter is on top and with baby, changing oil at home is often times better b/c faster. I extract oil in no time, change filter, drink a beer or 2, box up old oil, ship it back to FCP euro and have $25 oil changes for life now.

[pwe312]

I got a 2015 sq5 with 99k miles back in May. I know a really great local mechanic and read all about the general reliability of the motor and transmission. It was sold thru the autonation network at a Porsche dealership so they did a thorough inspection and included a 90 day warranty. I checked the service record and they did a bunch of stuff including new battery, water pump, and gasket. After my test drive, a radiator hose popped and they fixed it on the spot.

They then offered me a 5 year, 60k mile extended warranty for only about $5k that can be canceled anytime. I probably would've got the car without the warranty but that really gave me peace of mind. And if/when I go stage 2 I can cancel the warranty.

It's our 3rd car and we should be working from home for a while so we think we won't be adding much mileage. The car was $25k so overall it was $30k for a sq5 with 5 year warranty. That's a much better deal than a new Subaru/rav4, etc.

One other point with a new family... Double check if the car seat u want fits easily in rear facing mode. My kids are older now and front facing so it's fine. We also have a sprinter we use when we have a ton of gear to bring along. Before our first kid we looked at a q5 and the rear was too tight for our rear facing seat and the trunk not big enough for the massive stroller plus stuff.

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[USAF_Danny]

If you find a 3.0 q5, it is barely any difference from the sq5 (mainly cosmetic). Engine/trans are the same. sq5 has an extra cooler, but that's it.

I've had q5 for 4-5 years now for the wife. It's rock solid. I have single pulley stage 2 with some exhaust modifications. Put some spacers on, e-codes, rs-grille, carplay, new roof rails and car is fantastic. Didn't lower it b/c wife's car and I tow a boat sometimes with it. When we need more space, I add a Thule cargo carrier on top and if needed, a hitch cargo carrier too. I put nuna baby chairs in the car and it fits well. Also as you know, oil filter is on top and with baby, changing oil at home is often times better b/c faster. I extract oil in no time, change filter, drink a beer or 2, box up old oil, ship it back to FCP euro and have $25 oil changes for life now.

I love FCP! Have always used them for all of my maintenance.

I have always loved the Q body style and just hope that the size of the car is enough for our family. Watched IgnitionTube's video and it looks like the Nuna RAVA fits perfectly in the car. My wife is also 5'4" so I don't think leg room will be too much of an issue. Realistically, I'm probably going to be driving our Jeep here pretty soon, so the Q/SQ will be hers until birth lol.

This time around, I'll be buying the oil extractor so I don't have to get under the car anymore lol.

[Discipulus]

I extract oil in no time, change filter, drink a beer or 2, box up old oil, ship it back to FCP euro and have $25 oil changes for life now.

Dang I tried this but shipping the oil back was gonna cost me the same $$ as buying a new oil service kit from FCP. Tried UPS, FedEx and USPS and still the lowest shipping cost I could find was $50 or so.

Lucky you for finding cheap shipping!

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[USAF_Danny]

I got a 2015 sq5 with 99k miles back in May. I know a really great local mechanic and read all about the general reliability of the motor and transmission. It was sold thru the autonation network at a Porsche dealership so they did a thorough inspection and included a 90 day warranty. I checked the service record and they did a bunch of stuff including new battery, water pump, and gasket. After my test drive, a radiator hose popped and they fixed it on the spot.

They then offered me a 5 year, 60k mile extended warranty for only about $5k that can be canceled anytime. I probably would've got the car without the warranty but that really gave me peace of mind. And if/when I go stage 2 I can cancel the warranty.

It's our 3rd car and we should be working from home for a while so we think we won't be adding much mileage. The car was $25k so overall it was $30k for a sq5 with 5 year warranty. That's a much better deal than a new Subaru/rav4, etc.

One other point with a new family... Double check if the car seat u want fits easily in rear facing mode. My kids are older now and front facing so it's fine. We also have a sprinter we use when we have a ton of gear to bring along. Before our first kid we looked at a q5 and the rear was too tight for our rear facing seat and the trunk not big enough for the massive stroller plus stuff.

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That is a good deal! I found a private party SQ5 in Volcano Red that I really like with 73k miles. The other option being a 59k Q5 S-Line, both within $100 difference.

Regardless of what car I purchase, I'll probably look for a third party extended warranty for peace of mind as well. I remember the coolant leak in my blower on my S4, and thankfully I had a warranty because that bill wasn't cheap!

I just want to upgrade my A3 to something larger and "safer" for the baby and to have another four door car other than our Wrangler. I've read/watched a bunch of reviews on different car seats, mounting points, etc... and need to see the car seat in the car in person to really see if the size is right for us. If not, my wife can sit in the back with the baby.

[USAF_Danny]

Dang I tried this but shipping the oil back was gonna cost me the same $$ as buying a new oil service kit from FCP. Tried UPS, FedEx and USPS and still the lowest shipping cost I could find was $50 or so.

Lucky you for finding cheap shipping!

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It shouldn't cost you that much.

Shipping from CA to FCP was $30, and if you pay with PayPal, they reimburse the shipping charges!

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/returns

Here's a life hack for you!

[Discipulus]

As others have said, it's been a pretty reliable platform.

Only things to worry about are the same issues the S4 has. water pump for some folks, PCV, carbon cleaning, you know the drill. Nothing catastrophic though unlike the timing chain or piston rings/oil burning issues on the 2.0T platform.

The ZF is a solid transmission but do check out the service for it. Audi says "Lifetime" but the transmission manufacturer calls BS and recommends changeing fluid and filter every 60-80k or somewhere around then.

We have a pretty decent DIY guide for this by now and it can be done in 1 day or a weekend if you're taking your time.

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[flyfishing]

Dang I tried this but shipping the oil back was gonna cost me the same $$ as buying a new oil service kit from FCP. Tried UPS, FedEx and USPS and still the lowest shipping cost I could find was $50 or so.

Lucky you for finding cheap shipping!

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It should not cost you $50. I use UPS. I do have a commercial account so I save a little (like 5-7%), but it's not that much. Usually I pay $20-$25. Sometimes the UPS home page will have a discount code too.

Even at $50, that's still cheaper than dealer at 125-150 prob. For me, time is more important and I can knock this out in 30 mins or so versus driving to dealer, sitting, waiting and 3 hours later driving home. And I get to drink a beer or two.

[Discipulus]

It shouldn't cost you that much.

Shipping from CA to FCP was $30, and if you pay with PayPal, they reimburse the shipping charges!

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/returns

Here's a life hack for you!

I'll have to try that! Thanks for the tip =).

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[q5 dave]

5+yrs/ 102k. tuned since 35k. wonderful vehicle to own. oil changes, set of brakes and tires, and transmission service around 75k. Going to do pcv, tstat, waterpump soon before it gets too late. plan on driving as long as she'll go!


another helpful thread:
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...even-150K-3-0T

[AudiA4_20T]

I was in the exact same boat as you. Currently with an RSNav and Stage 1 its an awesome car. It only weighs 4400lbs so it's definitely heavier than the S4 but not terrible

[flyfishing]

It shouldn't cost you that much.

Shipping from CA to FCP was $30, and if you pay with PayPal, they reimburse the shipping charges!

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/returns

Here's a life hack for you!

WAIT, if you pay at FCP EURO with paypal, you can use that link for free shipping back each time??

[USAF_Danny]

As others have said, it's been a pretty reliable platform.

Only things to worry about are the same issues the S4 has. water pump for some folks, PCV, carbon cleaning, you know the drill. Nothing catastrophic though unlike the timing chain or piston rings/oil burning issues on the 2.0T platform.

The ZF is a solid transmission but do check out the service for it. Audi says "Lifetime" but the transmission manufacturer calls BS and recommends changeing fluid and filter every 60-80k or somewhere around then.

We have a pretty decent DIY guide for this by now and it can be done in 1 day or a weekend if you're taking your time.

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I'll make sure to look out for that! Whatever car I end up in was going to get the carbon cleaning and trans service regardless. Just for peace of mind.

Thank you!

It should not cost you $50. I use UPS. I do have a commercial account so I save a little (like 5-7%), but it's not that much. Usually I pay $20-$25. Sometimes the UPS home page will have a discount code too.

Even at $50, that's still cheaper than dealer at 125-150 prob. For me, time is more important and I can knock this out in 30 mins or so versus driving to dealer, sitting, waiting and 3 hours later driving home. And I get to drink a beer or two.

I'll have to try that! Thanks for the tip =).

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WAIT, if you pay at FCP EURO with paypal, you can use that link for free shipping back each time??

You don't need to pay with PayPal to be reimbursed! Just use them to pay for the shipping! I believe they cover 12 in a year.

:)

5+yrs/ 102k. tuned since 35k. wonderful vehicle to own. oil changes, set of brakes and tires, and transmission service around 75k. Going to do pcv, tstat, waterpump soon before it gets too late. plan on driving as long as she'll go!

another helpful thread:
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...even-150K-3-0T

I absolutely loved my S4, just wanted a different platform. One that I've always wanted and now own. As far as a daily driver goes, I think the 3.0T is such a great platform. Plenty of usable power/torque! I missed the supercharged motor a lot, so I supercharged my M3 lol.

Great to know on the longevity and reliability! I'll check out the link you sent.

If you're doing your own work, definitely buy those items through FCP. Once they go out again, you'll have lifetime replacements. Especially since you plan to keep it!

I was in the exact same boat as you. Currently with an RSNav and Stage 1 its an awesome car. It only weighs 4400lbs so it's definitely heavier than the S4 but not terrible

I plan on switching out the head unit on either car I get. I expected it to be heavier, but really just looking for a great dad car. So canyon runs will still be in my M3!

[WhatnxtQ5]

Since you have owned a TDI, don't forget the Q5 TDI. Has engine reliability, fuel economy, and has the TDI extended warranty.

[USAF_Danny]

Since you have owned a TDI, don't forget the Q5 TDI. Has engine reliability, fuel economy, and has the TDI extended warranty.

I looked was only able to find one for sale near me. A Cayenne Diesel was the top choice but they were all East Coast cars and after shipping, tax, title, and registration, I convinced myself that the extra money spent on those cars ($40k+) could have better use in my pocket for the newborn on the way. That's what actually pushed me to look for a Q5/SQ5 because they can easily be had for around $20k and that leaves extra funds for all the maintenance.

[pwe312]

That is a good deal! I found a private party SQ5 in Volcano Red that I really like with 73k miles. The other option being a 59k Q5 S-Line, both within $100 difference.

Regardless of what car I purchase, I'll probably look for a third party extended warranty for peace of mind as well. I remember the coolant leak in my blower on my S4, and thankfully I had a warranty because that bill wasn't cheap!

I just want to upgrade my A3 to something larger and "safer" for the baby and to have another four door car other than our Wrangler. I've read/watched a bunch of reviews on different car seats, mounting points, etc... and need to see the car seat in the car in person to really see if the size is right for us. If not, my wife can sit in the back with the baby.

I'd go with the Sq5. Besides the engine and transmission there a bunch of little differences that add up. Exhaust and brakes are other big differences unless u plan to upgrade those anyways. The stock sq5 sound and brakes are amazing. This thing stops really well for a huge suv. Better than my old gti, s2000, a3, a4, etc. Love the flat bottom steering wheel and folding mirrors too (not sure if s line has those).

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[pwe312]

I looked was only able to find one for sale near me. A Cayenne Diesel was the top choice but they were all East Coast cars and after shipping, tax, title, and registration, I convinced myself that the extra money spent on those cars ($40k+) could have better use in my pocket for the newborn on the way. That's what actually pushed me to look for a Q5/SQ5 because they can easily be had for around $20k and that leaves extra funds for all the maintenance.

The scary thing with the tdi is the fuel pump. They extended the warranty to 120k miles. Not sure if the additional 4 years from the scandal adds onto that. Had that blow on a touareg tdi and it was a $10k repair. Luckily extended warranty covered.

The torque was amazing and it was fun to drive. People were shocked to get passed on uphill sections =). But the sq5 is much faster and a blast around town.

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[scottst]

Everyone's right that there's very little difference between the Q5 3.0t and SQ5 in tuned form. We could split hairs but it wouldn't be helpful.

In stock form, however, the extra power of the SQ5 and the more aggressive tuning of the ZF8 are a really big deal IMO. If you want to stay stock. I continue to be impressed w/the SQ5 transmission tuning. I have more fun in it than my wife's Macan S with the idolized PDK.

[USAF_Danny]

I'd go with the Sq5. Besides the engine and transmission there a bunch of little differences that add up. Exhaust and brakes are other big differences unless u plan to upgrade those anyways. The stock sq5 sound and brakes are amazing. This thing stops really well for a huge suv. Better than my old gti, s2000, a3, a4, etc. Love the flat bottom steering wheel and folding mirrors too (not sure if s line has those).

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The scary thing with the tdi is the fuel pump. They extended the warranty to 120k miles. Not sure if the additional 4 years from the scandal adds onto that. Had that blow on a touareg tdi and it was a $10k repair. Luckily extended warranty covered.

The torque was amazing and it was fun to drive. People were shocked to get passed on uphill sections =). But the sq5 is much faster and a blast around town.

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Thank you for chiming in! I keep going back and forth between both cars, and I think it really boils down to what I like. Both are practically the same cars and I keep going back to the SQ5. I'm not one for exclusivity but the Volcano Red is beautiful. It also has alcantara seats as well so I think I'm going for it!

The extended warranty is to 120k miles. An 4 years and 45k miles gets added from the date of the in-service for the recall. I have it currently on my A3 TDI and even though I haven't had any issues, it really is a good deal for a used vehicle.

Everyone's right that there's very little difference between the Q5 3.0t and SQ5 in tuned form. We could split hairs but it wouldn't be helpful.

In stock form, however, the extra power of the SQ5 and the more aggressive tuning of the ZF8 are a really big deal IMO. If you want to stay stock. I continue to be impressed w/the SQ5 transmission tuning. I have more fun in it than my wife's Macan S with the idolized PDK.

I agree. This isn't like the 335i vs M3 debate. The Q5 and SQ5 is the same car with minor differences.

Both cars don't have warranty anymore, and I know eventually I'll tune either car as well. But I think I'm going for the SQ5. I'll be happy in either, and since the price is the same with the difference being about 15k miles, I think it's a pretty fair deal and I'm actually shocked it's not marked up with this inflation.

A Macan S was another top contender as well because I love how they look. But even the sales guys at Porsche were pushing me towards a used Cayenne over a new Macan for a newborn. That was a statement alone.

[pwe312]

Oh... One last thing I just remembered... Insurance on the sq5 will probably be higher. You might want to check that. Aaa has it classified as a "high value performance car." it's more than double my 2014 sprinter even though I classified it as a 3rd pleasure vehicle.

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[volkey]

changing oil at home is often times better b/c faster. I extract oil in no time, change filter, drink a beer or 2, box up old oil, ship it back to FCP euro and have $25 oil changes for life now.

Can you elaborate please, this sounds fantastic. Thanks.

[flyfishing]

Can you elaborate please, this sounds fantastic. Thanks.

Sure. First buy this: https://amzn.to/38iOfhS

Then go to FCP euro. search your car and find the oil change kit that has filter/oil and drain plug.

Buy it (with paypal now that I learned the tip above).

Get it. Use extractor to remove oil out of dipstick hole. Grab beer, crack it open and drink it while it extracts.

Get correct socket and unscrew oil filter. Pull out filter. put new filter and new oring in. tighted cap again.

Drink more beer.

Once oil extracted, add more oil in all the bottles that fcp euro shipped you. Check dipstick, turn on car, check dipstick again.

Pour oil out of extractor into each container. Wrap it up and seal it and put old filter back into box. Store it in your garage for next oil change.

Go to FCP Euro again when you need to change oil. Order the same kit. NOW go to the returns section and choose your original order. Select return all items. Print out RMA letter and put into box.

Go to the paypal link listed above for free return shipping. Or if it doesn't work, use UPS to ship back.

Ship it back.

Look at account to see that you got it back.

Congrats you have free oil / filter for the life of your car with FCP Euro for the cost of shipping (or free with paypal return feature).

[scottst]

.

A Macan S was another top contender as well because I love how they look. But even the sales guys at Porsche were pushing me towards a used Cayenne over a new Macan for a newborn. That was a statement alone.

I grab the keys to the sq5 10/10 times over our Macan S. Ymmv.


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[ShiftEuro]

I was in a similar situation as you. Was in a e46 M3 SMG that I regret selling. Ended up in a 06 Cooper S checkmate, that I loved for about 6 months. Then I moved to DTLA and wanted out of that car so bad. Cut to 3 weeks ago sold the mini to CarMax. Got a single owner 2014 Sq5 65k miles, from keys Audi for 24k got the warranty for 3k + lifetime oil changes. Feeling so much better being back in a real German car. They gave me 4 new tires and new rosters and pads also.

[turbo_911]

Sure. First buy this: https://amzn.to/38iOfhS

Then go to FCP euro. search your car and find the oil change kit that has filter/oil and drain plug.

Buy it (with paypal now that I learned the tip above).

Get it. Use extractor to remove oil out of dipstick hole. Grab beer, crack it open and drink it while it extracts.

Get correct socket and unscrew oil filter. Pull out filter. put new filter and new oring in. tighted cap again.

Drink more beer.

Once oil extracted, add more oil in all the bottles that fcp euro shipped you. Check dipstick, turn on car, check dipstick again.

Pour oil out of extractor into each container. Wrap it up and seal it and put old filter back into box. Store it in your garage for next oil change.

Go to FCP Euro again when you need to change oil. Order the same kit. NOW go to the returns section and choose your original order. Select return all items. Print out RMA letter and put into box.

Go to the paypal link listed above for free return shipping. Or if it doesn't work, use UPS to ship back.

Ship it back.

Look at account to see that you got it back.

Congrats you have free oil / filter for the life of your car with FCP Euro for the cost of shipping (or free with paypal return feature).

Are you being sarcastic here?

If not then I’m confused? How is this legal? You are returning old oil under new? Are they aware they are receiving old oil?

[flyfishing]

Are you being sarcastic here?

If not then I’m confused? How is this legal? You are returning old oil under new? Are they aware they are receiving old oil?

Um no.

Read their website. Call them if you want. They accept returns on any old car part that you buy from them including oil.


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[flyfishing]

FCP Euro Lifetime Replacement Guarantee

Every auto part you buy from FCP Euro is guaranteed for life, for as long as you own the vehicle. Our Lifetime Replacement Guarantee covers everything we sell, including wear-and-tear items like brake pads, gaskets, brake rotors, filters, and wiper blades!

Once the part purchased from FCP Euro wears out, simply purchase a replacement and then return the part you purchased to us within 90 days. We will issue you a refund against the replacement. No fine print, no restrictions, no time limit! Learn more.


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[pwe312]

FCP Euro Lifetime Replacement Guarantee

Every auto part you buy from FCP Euro is guaranteed for life, for as long as you own the vehicle. Our Lifetime Replacement Guarantee covers everything we sell, including wear-and-tear items like brake pads, gaskets, brake rotors, filters, and wiper blades!

Once the part purchased from FCP Euro wears out, simply purchase a replacement and then return the part you purchased to us within 90 days. We will issue you a refund against the replacement. No fine print, no restrictions, no time limit! Learn more.


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Brakes too!

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[USAF_Danny]

Oh... One last thing I just remembered... Insurance on the sq5 will probably be higher. You might want to check that. Aaa has it classified as a "high value performance car." it's more than double my 2014 sprinter even though I classified it as a 3rd pleasure vehicle.

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I remember my insurance pretty much being the same regardless if I had an A/S/M series car. USAA does a pretty good job at that. But thank you!

I grab the keys to the sq5 10/10 times over our Macan S. Ymmv.


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I like hearing this!

I was in a similar situation as you. Was in a e46 M3 SMG that I regret selling. Ended up in a 06 Cooper S checkmate, that I loved for about 6 months. Then I moved to DTLA and wanted out of that car so bad. Cut to 3 weeks ago sold the mini to CarMax. Got a single owner 2014 Sq5 65k miles, from keys Audi for 24k got the warranty for 3k + lifetime oil changes. Feeling so much better being back in a real German car. They gave me 4 new tires and new rosters and pads also.

How did you find this deal?! That's fantastic! You'll end up in a E46 M3 again. If that's a car you regret selling, that's a car you'll probably own again!

Brakes too!

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Are you being sarcastic here?

If not then I’m confused? How is this legal? You are returning old oil under new? Are they aware they are receiving old oil?

It's not illegal. It's what they stand for. I'm actually surprised that many DIY-ers with European cars don't utilize FCP.

[flyfishing]

Just got my legit refund!

IMG_8413.jpg


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[Jun3s]

How did you find this deal?! That's fantastic! You'll end up in a E46 M3 again. If that's a car you regret selling, that's a car you'll probably own again!

---

It's not illegal. It's what they stand for. I'm actually surprised that many DIY-ers with European cars don't utilize FCP.

Love FCP Euro. It's such an uncommon concept that it's not surprising... I mean what kind of company accepts used oil, worn out pads and rotors, various other consumables, then sends you a brand new one?

--

Deals can be had, just need a whole lot of luck :). I got a Q5 3.0T just a few months ago, with the intention of passing it along to my parents after a few years. Bought it for $16,999 (pre-taxes/fees). It had 82k miles and had several options (Sport Interior Pkg, Bang & Olufsen, MMI Nav Plus), water pump was done 3 years ago at an Audi Dealership per CarFax.

Only had a few issues that were addressed:
-Minor oil leak - turned out to be overfilled from a previous dealership and a bad oil filter housing
-Some coolant leak - turned out to be coolant reservoir cap not holding pressure
-Rotors/pads were worn - bought a set from FCP Euro immediately
-Winter tires

Took it to an Audi specialist shop to have them go over the car and everything seemed to check out.

It's been a blast, I'm now nearing 87k with an APR Stage 1 flash and a few other things (Intake, SQ5 Grille, CarPlay module). I did have to fill a quart of oil a few days ago so it seems I'm burning oil, not seeing any leakage. Gonna have that checked out and maybe preventatively take care of the PCV and others.

[hananmori12]

I was in a similar situation as you. Was in a e46 M3 SMG that I regret selling. Ended up in a 06 Cooper S checkmate, that I loved for about 6 months. Then I moved to DTLA and wanted out of that car so bad. Cut to 3 weeks ago sold the mini to CarMax. Got a single owner 2014 Sq5 65k miles, from keys Audi for 24k got the warranty for 3k + lifetime oil changes. Feeling so much better being back in a real German car. They gave me 4 new tires and new rosters and pads also.

I bought mine from Audi Las Vegas with 86,000 miles, I searched for few months and all was very expensive, you got a good deal

[ShiftEuro]

How did you find this deal?! That's fantastic! You'll end up in a E46 M3 again. If that's a car you regret selling, that's a car you'll probably own again!

The lady who had it before traded it in for a new one, it was only on the lot for a day before I found it online. The dealer was shocked I found out about it. I was looking at a few cars for months. 2013 X5M (can’t find any of them in ca that are good) Porsche Macan s, and the Sq5. This one was too good a deal to pass up. And I’m extremely happy with my decision. I’m not going to mod the hell out of it. Just a stage 1 tune, maybe a resonator delete, and that’s it… we’ll I’m also going to do the black trim wrap. Everything else as is.

[turbo_911]

Wow, I thought you can only return something within 90 days, that’s it.

I don’t even know how they are still in business if people keep returning stuff and getting new items all the time. It’s like you buy one item for life!

Very interesting concept. What do they say when they return retuned used item back to manufacturer?

[djn876]

Wow, I thought you can only return something within 90 days, that’s it.

I don’t even know how they are still in business if people keep returning stuff and getting new items all the time. It’s like you buy one item for life!

Very interesting concept. What do they say when they return retuned used item back to manufacturer?

They don't return it, it's their policy not the manufacturer so they own the cost of it. Honestly I buy everything I can from them because of it and have done I think 3 or 4 oil changes at 15 or 17 bucks because I'm in PA so shipping is cheap. Plus the free shipping is usually FedEx and because I'm so close gets here in usually a day, maybe two.

My neighbor is a mechanic and used to go to a lot of race events, he was talking to the owners at one at some point and they said it is a balancing act. On the one hand, someone buying rotors or axles, etc. probably won't have the car long enough to do them again, or it's infrequent enough that it isn't impactful. Then you get the race guys that rebuild an engine every week and they are losing money on that type of buyer. Either way it is really a fantastic policy. Things like intercoolers, HPFPs, etc. can just be bought once and then if it fails, no worries about parts cost.

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[Norskie]

I've already looked up the differences between the Q5 S-Line and SQ5, and don't care which car I end up in, as long as the price, maintenance history, and mileage make sense.

I might be wrong, but I think the SQ5 has much stiffer suspension than the Q5. Depending on the quality of your roads this might make a huge difference.

[Norskie]

Dang I tried this but shipping the oil back was gonna cost me the same $$ as buying a new oil service kit from FCP. Tried UPS, FedEx and USPS and still the lowest shipping cost I could find was $50 or so.

Lucky you for finding cheap shipping!

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I use a USPS large flat rate box, the one designed for board games. I think it's about $25 so ship. Fits the three oil jugs and a filter.

[USAF_Danny]

I might be wrong, but I think the SQ5 has much stiffer suspension than the Q5. Depending on the quality of your roads this might make a huge difference.

It could be possible. I live in SoCal and roads are great, but I still plan to upgrade the suspension!

I ended up picking up the SQ5 and I'm so happy to be back in the 3.0T

I honestly think the SQ5 is better than the S4 and I loved that car so much!

[Norskie]

It could be possible. I live in SoCal and roads are great, but I still plan to upgrade the suspension!

I ended up picking up the SQ5 and I'm so happy to be back in the 3.0T

I honestly think the SQ5 is better than the S4 and I loved that car so much!

That's great, congratulations on the SQ5! it has other upgrades like bigger brakes, better resale, etc as well. Lots of considerations.

In terms of practicality, the SQ5 beats the S4, at least for me as I tow occasionally. Personally I find that it is more comfortable as well (seat goes higher, more headroom) and better luggage space.

But once in a while I get this urge to return to a manual transmission, and a 3.0T + 6spd comes up on carsnbids ... but then I'd also need to get a pickup truck, and a new house with a 3-stall garage or larger lot, and I'd pay a lot more in taxes, and then I'd probably get a bigger toyhauler, and then .... nah, I'll stick to the SQ5. For now.