Thinking about purchasing Audi Care for your luxury ride but not sure if it’s worth the upfront cost? You’re about to discover exactly what this prepaid maintenance program offers, how much you’ll actually save, and whether it makes financial sense for your specific situation.
What Exactly Is Audi Care?
Audi Care is a prepaid maintenance package that covers your vehicle’s factory-recommended service visits. Instead of paying for each service as it comes up, you pay one lump sum upfront that covers multiple maintenance visits.
The standard package for newer models (2020+) costs $1,499 and covers four maintenance visits at 10,000, 20,000, 30,000, and 40,000 miles. These aren’t just oil changes – they include comprehensive service that gets more extensive as your mileage increases.
The Real Costs: Audi Care vs. Pay-As-You-Go
Let’s cut to the chase – is Audi Care actually cheaper? Here’s a breakdown of what you’d typically pay at the dealership without the plan:
| Service Interval | Typical Dealership Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 miles | $170 | Oil change, inspections |
| 20,000 miles | $300 | Oil change, cabin filter, more inspections |
| 30,000 miles | $400 | Oil change, air filter, brake fluid |
| 40,000 miles | $1,000 | Oil change, spark plugs, major service |
| TOTAL | $1,870 |
With Audi Care costing $1,499, you’re saving about $371 (20%) over paying for individual services at the dealership.
The savings become even more significant when you consider that the 40,000-mile service alone costs between $700-$1,000 because it includes spark plug replacement and other major items.
What’s Actually Covered Under Audi Care?
Audi Care isn’t just oil changes. Here’s what you get:
- Oil and filter changes with synthetic oil
- Multi-point inspections that get more comprehensive at higher mileages
- Brake fluid replacement (typically at 20,000 miles)
- Air and cabin filter replacements
- Spark plug replacements (at 40,000 miles)
- Software updates and diagnostic scans
- Reset service interval display
Special models get additional services:
- e-tron models: Battery system inspections
- RS/S performance models: More extensive brake and drivetrain checks
It’s worth noting that Audi Care doesn’t cover wear items like:
- Brake pads and rotors
- Tires
- Windshield wipers
- Clutches
- Any repairs outside scheduled maintenance
Key Benefits Beyond Simple Cost Savings
The financial savings are nice, but there are other benefits that might matter even more:
1. Inflation Protection
By locking in today’s service prices, you’re protected against future price increases. Dealership labor rates have risen 4-6% annually in recent years, making that upfront payment increasingly valuable.
2. Resale Value Enhancement
Vehicles with complete dealer service records typically sell for 8-12% more than those without. When you go to sell or trade in your Audi, that complete maintenance history from authorized dealerships gives buyers confidence.
3. Convenience Factor
With Audi Care, you’ve already paid for the service, so scheduling maintenance is hassle-free. Many dealers also prioritize Audi Care customers for appointments and loaner vehicles.
4. Warranty Protection
Using factory-trained technicians and genuine parts helps ensure your warranty remains intact. Some warranty claims can be denied if proper maintenance hasn’t been performed.
Who Should Skip Audi Care?
While Audi Care makes financial sense for many owners, it’s not for everyone:
- Very low-mileage drivers: If you drive significantly less than 10,000 miles per year, you might not use all included services before they expire.
- DIYers who do their own oil changes: If you handle basic maintenance yourself, the savings diminish.
- Short-term owners: If you plan to sell before reaching 40,000 miles, you won’t get the full value.
The Dealership Experience vs. Independent Shops
One major consideration is where you’d otherwise service your vehicle. Independent shops charge considerably less than dealerships:
- Oil changes: $74-$88 at independent shops vs. $143-$170 at dealerships
- Spark plug replacement: $29-$178 at third-party garages vs. $700+ at dealerships
- Brake services: About 40-50% less at independent shops
However, independent shops may not use Audi-specific diagnostic equipment or genuine parts, which could affect long-term reliability and resale value.
Audi Care for Different Models: What to Expect
The value of Audi Care varies slightly depending on what model you drive:
- A3, A4, Q3: Best value, as maintenance is generally less expensive
- A6, A7, Q5, Q7: Strong value, as these models have higher service costs
- A8, RS models, e-tron: Essential, as maintenance costs are substantially higher
For electric e-tron models, Audi offers a specific e-tron care package that addresses the unique maintenance needs of electric vehicles.
How to Purchase Audi Care (And When)
You can purchase Audi Care when buying your new Audi or anytime before your first scheduled maintenance. Many owners find the best approach is to:
- Negotiate your best vehicle purchase price first
- Discuss Audi Care separately afterward
- Consider rolling it into your financing if cash flow is a concern
For CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles, Audi offers “Audi Care Flex” plans that can be customized based on your vehicle’s current mileage.
Real-World Owner Experiences
Most Audi owners who’ve purchased Audi Care report being satisfied with their decision. Common feedback includes:
“The 40K service alone practically paid for the entire package.”
“I like knowing exactly what maintenance will cost for the next few years.”
“The convenience of not having to pay each time is worth it to me.”
The most common complaint is from owners who sell their vehicles before using all included services.
The Bottom Line: Is Audi Care Worth It?
For most Audi owners who:
- Plan to keep their vehicle for at least 40,000 miles
- Prefer dealer servicing
- Value convenience and predictability
Audi Care is worth the investment. The 20%+ savings over a la carte pricing, combined with inflation protection and resale benefits, make it a smart financial choice.
If you’re the type who changes vehicles frequently, drives very little, or prefers independent shops, you might want to skip it.
Remember that luxury vehicle ownership isn’t just about the purchase price – proper maintenance is essential for performance, reliability, and long-term value. Audi Care helps ensure your investment stays in prime condition for years to come.
