I am starting to look to replace my daily driver (2008 Ford Focus, 120k miles) because it’s starting to have more and more issues and is generally becoming more pain than it’s worth (I’ve poured 3k into it over the past 6 months).
While searching local dealerships (NW Chicago) I found a 2013 Audi S4 for 20k with 84k miles. I know German cars tend to be expensive to maintain, but Audis Quattro system should be great for the winters, and a sedan that is also fun to drive would be great for a growing family. What I’m curious about is whether there are significant known issues to be wary of, or if it’s a pretty good car overall. All the reviews I’ve found speak highly of it, but not too many long term ownership reviews out there. Thanks!
Lexus all day long. With the Audi you'll be jumping out of the frying pan into the fire.
Don't do it. You will be going from one money pit to another.
Another option I’m looking at is a 2006 Lexus LX470 with 180k miles. It’s at like 18k. Still expensive but a little more reasonable… lot of miles for the money though. The interior is in decent shape, but the leather could use some loving
I would definitely look into the Lexus. All luxury vehicles you will have to pay more for parts and services.
I would not recommend to anyone to purchase that or any (modern) German vehicle unless you plan to work on it yourself (all the maintenance and the majority of repairs), know where to get parts, are really familiar with how the mechanical and electrical systems on those vehicles really work (almost to the point of being consider a pseudo-Audi mechanic), and have a chunk of money set aside for the repairs (it will be expensive over time). (YouTuber Mechanics CarWizard and LegitStreetCars comes to mind). But, otherwise, I usually tell folks to pass on it. Owning older German cars out of warranty is a labor of love and not for the faint of heart - not a good idea for the vast majority of us.
