Extended Warranty for Audi A3 Worth The Cost?

I got an Audi A3 3 years ago and now the official new car warranty is coming to an end soon.

Just got quoted it's $1800 to extend for another 1 year or approximately $1500 per year for extra 2-4 years.

During the first 3 years I did take the car back once to Audi to fix the audio system as it was producing static noise from one of the speakers and was fixed with no hassle.

I find the cost very expensive and wondering if there are any alternatives. In addition, I though there are some laws protecting me if the vehicle breaks down completely it would be considered a faulty product and not fit for purpose anyway and does not need to be within warranty.

Keen to hear from you guys on any directions or thoughts??

Comments

  • +2

    Not worth it. Being out of warranty you can shop around for a better price on any repairs needed without worrying about having to use genuine parts

  • +1

    Really depends on what it covers?

  • manufacturer warranty is good to have and can be transferred (helps in resale also). also you can claim this even if you have been servicing your car outside of audi authorized dealer network. If it dealer warranty based on condition that you service the car in the dealership its not worth it.

  • It's like buying insurance. You'll be glad you have it when something happens and you'll think it's a waste of money if nothing happens.

    For $1500, I'd say one of the only things that would make it worth it is if you end up with transmission problems.

  • +1

    Keep the money in a safe spot (like an offset account), then add $1500 to it each year and keep track of expenses.
    I don't think you will have $7500 worth of damage done to it in 5 years… you will also save money on the mortgage repayment fees.

    • Damage??

      • To the engine, transmission, steering, dash, etc?

        • I don't think warranty covers damage mate. More like manufacturing defects and premature failure.

  • +3

    If you are a NRMA Member, you can get a "end of warranty inspection" (Mobile or In-Store) https://www.mynrma.com.au/cars-and-driving/car-servicing/mob… and stick it to Audi before the Warranty is up.

  • +1

    The A.C.C.C. has already determined these extended policies are a waste of money - bordering on a sham and warned consumers against buying them.

    • +1

      I think you'll find that is talking about dealer warranties.

      The actual manufacturer warranties are usually worthwhile.

  • -1

    Just got quoted it's $1800 to extend for another 1 year or approximately $1500 per year for extra 2-4 years.

    wow. that is euro vehicles for you. we got five years extended warranty for less than $1k.

    • +1

      There's different forms of extended warranty.

      Sounds like you have the one with specific servicing requirements, and a low claim value.

      • You know we drive the most reliable brand on the market. :)

        It major fault developing during the five years is possible, but unlikely.

        • +1

          I know the costs, and unless you got the factory warranty at cost price, you bought a dud warranty… Sorry!

  • +1

    I think factory warranty extensions (other people in this thread seem to be confused with similar but different products) are something to seriously consider, especially on a European car.

    My only concern is the pricing seems quite high. You might like to check third party providers.

    I have an additional 3 years and I paid about $1200 total on a Holden. It's almost 6 years old now and if anything goes wrong with it I simply drop it at a dealer. Despite being a third party warranty the dealer takes care of everything. I've had over $2000 of work done under this warranty and am very happy with it.

    IF you go third party, it has to be factory warranty coverage. None of the "gold", "silver" crap, they are more like insurance, have limits and excesses, they are worthless.

  • Why don't you buy directly from Allianz? They sell these type of warranties and your dealer is probably using them too.

  • Thanks for all the input.
    So much useful info in this thread already. Thank you

    Being doing some research and come across the following articles which I find useful
    http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/Consumers/Motor_vehicles/W…
    http://www.smh.com.au/national/extended-warranties-useless-a…
    http://www.afr.com/business/insurance/insurance-companies/as…

    Also reading the PDS for the Audi extended warranty tonight to see if I am restricted to servicing with them only.
    I also like the commentary on the self insure option given another 4 years will effectively cost me $6000.

    • +1

      If you own an Audi for 7 years, expect things to go wrong…

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