Disclosure: This content was produced by an independent editorial party for the purposes of educating our customers, and is not influenced by the other business operations of CARCHEX.
While an Audi factory warranty will cover you for four years, are you prepared to cover the out-of-pocket costs for your car repairs once that warranty expires? Learn why buying a vehicle service contract for your Audi can help shield your budget and save you trouble in the long run.
What Is Covered by an Audi Factory Warranty?
A factory warranty is the coverage most manufacturers offer new car buyers. They differ, but with a New Vehicle Limited Warranty on your Audi car or SUV, you are covered for the first four years or 50,000 miles of your vehicle, whichever comes first.
New Audi warranty coverage also includes:
- Your first scheduled maintenance service is free at 10,000 miles or 12 months
- 12-year limited coverage on corrosion perforation
- 24-hour roadside assistance for four years
- Audi Accessories’ limited warranty
The Audi factory warranty is a basic warranty that only covers most parts of your vehicle, outside of regular wear and tear. However, it offers a fairly short coverage period, comparatively.
Brands like Hyundai, Mitsubishi, and Kia offer 10 years or 100,000 miles of powertrain coverage, paired with five years or 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper protection. Acura, Buick, Cadillac, Lexus, and Lincoln offer six years or 70,000 miles of powertrain coverage, alongside four years or 50,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper protection.
What’s an Audi Certified Pre-Owned Limited Warranty?
Audi’s Certified Pre-owned Limited Warranty is a similar protection plan to the new car factory warranty, but with more complex timing. If you buy the car while it’s still covered under the factory warranty, you get the remainder of that coverage. Once that expires, the Audi certified pre-owned (CPO) warranty lasts for another one year or 20,000 miles.
The good news is that the CPO limited warranty is transferable, so if you buy a used car from anyone who’s not the manufacturer, you can still benefit from the first owner’s protection plan with Audi.
Whether you have a CPO or new Audi, once the manufacturer warranty is up, you may want to look into additional protection. One option is the extended warranty from Audi, which is a distinct plan from the factory warranty or CPO warranty, and may cover different components.
Alternatively, consider getting a vehicle service plan for your Audi through a third-party provider such as CARCHEX. Get a free quote today by calling 866-261-3457 or fill out the online form.
Do I Need Extended Coverage for My Audi?
Just a few years ago, Audi was called a “sinkhole of service costs” by Consumer Reports. Their cars were breaking down, and owners without Audi extended warranties were on the hook for expensive trips to the repair shop. More recently, Audi ranked 12th out of 34 brands in a similar 2024 study by Consumer Reports.
Even though the Audi brand has fluctuated in its reliability, the factory warranty has stayed the same, leaving Audi owners with the burden of paying for expensive repair costs. Depending on the type of Audi you have, you may be especially vulnerable to trouble.
When repairs are necessary, the cost to fix a luxury car like Audi will be higher than most. You don’t want to be strapped with outrageous bills once your factory warranty term ends. An Audi extended warranty or third-party vehicle service plan may help offset the cost.
Cost of Audi Repairs
When it comes to extending the life of your vehicle, it’s essential that you make any necessary repairs in a timely manner. When problems pop up, will you be able to cover the cost of repairs if your Audi factory warranty has expired?
Take a look at common problems reported by Audi drivers:
A4 owners have reported needing a head gasket replacement—a cost as high as $1,784. |
Q7 drivers have reported needing to replace valve cover gaskets for as much as $283. |
A6 quattro® owners have reported needing radiator replacements for as much as $1,854. |
|---|---|---|
Q5 drivers have paid as much as $356 for suspension ball joint replacement. |
TT drivers have needed clutch replacements that cost as high as $1,912. |
Q3 drivers reported paying up to $269 for brake pad replacements. |
Data provided by RepairPal.com
By purchasing an extended warranty through Audi or a vehicle service plan from a third-party company, such as CARCHEX, you can save money on select repairs and get the affordable coverage you need, long after your Audi factory warranty expires. Coverage varies by plan, and terms and conditions apply.
Why Should I Get an Extended Warranty Through CARCHEX?
Audi powertrain and bumper-to-bumper standard warranties only last for four years or 50,000 miles. Compare that to the five to 10 years of coverage available from a CARCHEX vehicle service plan. Our team can help you find the right vehicle service plan for your Audi car or SUV and can save you money when an unexpected repair is necessary.
Buying a CARCHEX vehicle service plan can ensure that your Audi vehicle is covered beyond the life of your factory Audi warranty. Below is a look at the five levels of protection we offer—Titanium, Platinum, Powertrain Plus, Powertrain, or Extra Care—with many plans available within each level.
What Is Covered Under a CARCHEX Protection Plan?
When you choose a coverage plan from CARCHEX, you can be sure that you’re getting the right coverage for your Audi vehicle and the best deal on vehicle service coverage.
Our most basic vehicle service plan will cover the engine, transmission, and drive axle components, while our highest vehicle protection plan will provide thorough coverage of your vehicle, from your engine and transmission to your braking, steering, and heating and cooling components. Some restrictions, exclusions, and deductibles apply, so choose the contract that best suits your budget and needs.
In addition to vehicle coverage, CARCHEX also provides:
- Low monthly payments
- Plans that can be customized to your budget and driving habits
- Terms and time frames that suit your needs
- Hybrid component coverage
- Easy-to-understand contracts
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Benefits of a CARCHEX Vehicle Service Plan
When you buy vehicle protection from CARCHEX, you can expect to see a variety of benefits. We strive to provide an excellent customer experience in addition to the peace of mind you receive from having extra coverage for your Audi..
Some industry-leading benefits offered by CARCHEX include:
- Affordable Payment Plans: For many drivers, a monthly payment is easier to budget for than a high-dollar repair..
- Claims Paid Directly to Repair Shop: There is no need to wait for reimbursement when you make a claim. We pay the auto shop directly, so it’s fast and convenient for you.
- 30-Day Money Back Guarantee: If you are unhappy with the service you get, you can contact us within 30 days and get your money back.
- Coverage All Over the United States: We work with more than 30,000 licensed repair shops.
- No-Haggle Low-Price Everyday Guarantee™: We put customer experience above all, which means giving our customers the lowest price every day without having to negotiate to get it.
- Trusted Industry Partnerships and Endorsements: Don’t just take our word for it: top brands like SiriusXM, CARFAX, Kelley Blue Book, and more trust and recommend CARCHEX.
Some limitations and exclusions apply. Consult your CARCHEX contract or reach out to a CARCHEX representative for more information.
Call Us for Your Free Extended Warranty Quote Today
CARCHEX has been an industry leader for over 20 years, and our consistent, exceptional customer service has earned us an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Our team will work to find the best vehicle protection plan for your Audi vehicle at a price you can afford. Get a free coverage quote today by calling CARCHEX at 866-261-3457.
How Does Audi’s Extended Warranty Compare?
When you buy your new Audi, it’s highly likely the dealer will try to sell you an extended warranty on the spot. Audi’s version of extended warranties is called Vehicle Service Protection (VSP). Audi has three coverage levels:
- Platinum: Bumper-to-bumper coverage
- Gold: Powertrain plus coverage
- Powertrain: Basic powertrain coverage (includes hybrid/electric vehicles)
Other important Audi extended warranty features to note:
- The longest coverage available is 10 years or 120,000 miles (eight years or 120,000 miles for CPO vehicles).
- Deductibles can be as high as $250 per visit, but there are some $0 options. Just keep in mind your monthly payment will be higher with a lower deductible.
- Like most extended warranties, perks like roadside assistance and towing, rental car, and trip interruption services are included.
The biggest difference between an Audi extended warranty and a vehicle service plan from CARCHEX is flexibility for repair parts and mechanics. Audi limits you to using its original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and approved repair facilities, namely the dealership. This can be a real inconvenience if there isn’t an Audi dealership in your area.
Also, you’re stuck with their prices instead of being able to shop around and get quotes from different repair facilities. With CARCHEX, you have access to over 30,000 certified repair shops, including national chains, local mechanics, and dealerships.
Lastly, it’s possible you may only be eligible to purchase an extended Audi warranty while your limited warranty is still active. Whether your Audi is under warranty, you’re the second owner, or the vehicle is certified pre-owned, with CARCHEX you can purchase coverage anytime.
CARCHEX vehicle service experts can provide a customized quote based on your Audi’s year, model, mileage, and other factors. If you have questions about how our plans compare to Audi extended warranty coverage, the easiest thing to do is call our representatives, get answers, and receive your free quote.
Sources:
Audi:
https://www.audiusa.com/us/web/en/service/warranty.html
Consumer Reports:
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/a4/engine-leak-inspection-cost
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/a4/catalytic-converter-replacement-cost
CarComplaints.com:
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Audi/A4/2002/engine/engine_failure.shtml
CarComplaints.com:
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Audi/A4/2012/engine/bad_piston.shtml
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/a4/head-gasket-replacement-cost
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/q7/valve-cover-gasket-replacement-cost
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/a6-quattro/radiator-replacement-cost
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/q5/suspension-ball-joint-replacement-cost
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/tt/clutch-replacement-cost
RepairPal:
https://repairpal.com/estimator/audi/q3/brake-pad-replacement-cost
Better Business Bureau:
https://www.bbb.org/us/md/hunt-valley/profile/extended-warranty-contract-service-companies/carchex-0011-23015869