Inspection costs for 2024 Q8 e-tron – disappointing Audi experience

[Marcus_Kincaid]

I’ve been loving my 2024 Q8 e-tron, which I’ve had since June and has just under 3,000 miles. It’s hands-down the smoothest, most powerful, and quietest car I’ve ever owned, and it’s completely sold me on EVs. But I’ve hit a frustrating issue: the ‘Inspection Needed’ and ‘Inspection Due’ warnings on my dash.

When I called my Audi service advisor to get this checked along with the recall for the electric cable, I was told the inspection is just routine checks and would cost about $200. For an $82,000 car, it feels like a cash grab, especially since these “checks” are the sort of thing you’d get included with an oil change on a gas car. And to make things worse, only an Audi dealer can reset the warning indicator.

Don’t get me wrong, I adore my Q8 e-tron, but this kind of thing really makes me rethink my next purchase decision. Why is Audi using this strategy for a car that’s supposed to feel premium? It’s not about the money, it’s about the principle and the feeling that they’re taking advantage of their customers.

Curious to know if others have had similar experiences. Does anyone else feel this way, or is this just the new normal for luxury EVs?

 

[JonLove25_]

You should try AudiCare, it's worth it. You pay once and they cover all the basic stuff for a while. I think it's like 50,000 miles or something.

 

[TheDoggySeat]

A lot of people share your frustration but keep in mind that dealerships make most of their profit through service, so they often push it. No brand is perfect, Audi has its flaws but so do others like Mercedes and BMW. Audi’s service packages can be a good deal for basic maintenance, but after my car hit 50k miles the prices went up a lot. I’m planning to go to a regular mechanic now.
At the end of the day try to focus on the positives. You’ll still enjoy the car and there’s plenty to like about it.

 

[Trevor8]

I’ve been loving my 2024 Q8 e-tron, which I’ve had since June and has just under 3,000 miles. It’s hands-down the smoothest, most powerful, and quietest car I’ve ever owned, and it’s completely sold me on EVs. But I’ve hit a frustrating issue: the ‘Inspection Needed’ and ‘Inspection Due’ warnings on my dash.

When I called my Audi service advisor to get this checked along with the recall for the electric cable, I was told the inspection is just routine checks and would cost about $200. For an $82,000 car, it feels like a cash grab, especially since these “checks” are the sort of thing you’d get included with an oil change on a gas car. And to make things worse, only an Audi dealer can reset the warning indicator.

Don’t get me wrong, I adore my Q8 e-tron, but this kind of thing really makes me rethink my next purchase decision. Why is Audi using this strategy for a car that’s supposed to feel premium? It’s not about the money, it’s about the principle and the feeling that they’re taking advantage of their customers.

Curious to know if others have had similar experiences. Does anyone else feel this way, or is this just the new normal for luxury EVs?

It feels unfair, especially for a luxury vehicle. The cost should be more transparent and inclusive. Have you considered discussing this with higher-ups at Audi for a resolution?