The first oil change

[Johnny31]

Hi guys, as I'm about to hit the 10k mark (after 8 months), I guess Audi would put me in the long-life service bucket. Nonetheless, as I still believe in engine running in, etc. , I'd like to get the oil changed. Sooo, should I:
1. Go to the main dealer and splash some serious cash;
2. Go to an indy now for the oil/filter change and act as nothing happened until car tells me that it is time for the service?
3. Just wait for it to let me know the time is right (according to the car, I have more than a year or next 18k before oil change?!?!)?

I definitely want to keep it 10ish years so want to keep a good care of it but still save some money on the way... :)

Thanks for the opinions!



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[zollaf]

go to an indy and get the oil changed for some proper expensive oil and an oem filter such as a wix (wix make em for vw). then do the same every 10k. keep your receipts and if you need to claim under the warranty just remember about block exemption. simples, cheap and car last long time. 20k oil changes kill engines. with the money saved, replace the air filter, pollen filter and fuel filter.

[Whippy53]

Mad if you keep it on extended service, get it changed to annual.

[Tripletrouble]

Can anyone show me any evidence, other than purely anecdotal or "opinion based" as to why, if the manufacturer says 19k between changes, you should change the oil sooner?

[fest0r]

I was actually thinking of doing this myself. Initially I was going to opt for fixed servicing, but it would really only be so the engine oil was changed every year. I will be doing 12,000 ish a year so this would place me on the flexible service plan. I’m happy to buy an Audi filter/oil and get it done by a third party, but this must affect the flexible schedule sensors (oil only?) that determine when it’s due. Or maybe it would just take the oil change service point to the maximum 2 years/19,000 miles and coincide with the inspection service?

Doing this would effectively be the same as the fixed service plan (see below) but with quite a saving… or maybe I have missed something?

Also, do you have to select which plan you want when picking up the car or is it automated?

23625

[shabazmo]

Johnny, my advice is take it to Audi main daler and pay about £220. It is a rip off, but if you need to make a waranty claim they will look at you a lot more favourably. also even if you are out of waranty, again audi will look positively at you, given the main delare service. However if you are on long life, get an indy to do it but don't reset the service indicator and don't tell audi. Despite what the rules are regarding indy's servicing, what you don't want is an argument with your main dealer. On my part. My A7 will get its 6th 9K service in 3 years next month. I have had a few warranty problems and no questions asked. They just replace what is needed. After 3 years, I am doing it all myself.

[AvantB5CJ]

I agree I know it's more expensive but everyone prefers a main dealer history on the car and due to you car being in warranty it will help if it needs work as no one can be blamed for using non gen parts etc. Quite often main dealers will do deals to get the business so always worth getting quotes else where first.

[daycartes]

Can anyone show me any evidence, other than purely anecdotal or "opinion based" as to why, if the manufacturer says 19k between changes, you should change the oil sooner?

A4 1.9Tdi 130BHP 85000 miles '53 reg serviced longlife no problems with engine during 9 years ownership.
A6 2.7TDI 170BHP 100,000 miles '55 reg serviced longlife no problems with engine during 4 years of ownership.

Not sure whether you would call the above evidence anecdotal, but they are facts.

It took us a long time to convince ourselves to trade in the A4 because it ran so well and had given us very few problems. We would look at other cars and return home and say to ourselves - Why change it? Eventually a misano red A3 cab convinced us.
A6 wise the engine (and tiptronic gearbox) were faultless. I sold the A6 because after 100,000 miles I reckoned that the external moving parts ( eg steering joints, brake pipes) which are exposed to the elements were more liable to break due to normal wear and tear than the engine. Whoops I accidentally strayed into the anecdotal there!!

[Passatier3]

Can anyone show me any evidence, other than purely anecdotal or "opinion based" as to why, if the manufacturer says 19k between changes, you should change the oil sooner?

Hi Nige

I think it comes more down to how long you keep the car, type of journeys and annual mileage and most importantly what you are happy with!

Personally I think that if you do over 20k. annually then the Longlife is fine, particularly if you are changing the car on a regular basis.

I've reduced my annual mileage i.e. less than 10k. and may keep the car for some years so I'm going to switch to annual servicing at the first one in April as I did with my previous Passat.

Being an old git and therefore old school I've even wondered whether it would be a good idea to change the oil after the first 1k. miles?

Cheers, Chris

[Wuffles]

[...]but if you need to make a waranty claim they will look at you a lot more favourably. also even if you are out of waranty, again audi will look positively at you, given the main delare service.

I doubt they will, just my opinion of course, but I think it'd make no difference at all to them. If it's covered, fix it, if it's not, expect them to tell you to FO. Again, my opinion and experience.

Also, this has come up before, and I'm not sure anyone answered it, so I'll ask again.

If an Indy services a car, given the service record is now on Audi's main database, how do you get the "book stamped" digitally? Does anyone know?

[retired99]

My car is going to an Audi dealer a week on Monday for the first service which is basically an oil change and a diagnostic check to see if any errors are stored.

It’s about 8 months old and has done nearly 10k miles. I do about 15k miles a year, but as that involves a lot of very short trips ( 2or 3 miles there and back) as well as long journeys I prefer to keep the car on the ‘short’ ( correct term?) service interval.

This might not be strictly necessary, and I have no evidence one way or the other, but as I like this car a lot and can see myself keeping it for quite a while it’s a small price for a bit of peace of mind.

It’s going to cost a couple of hundred pounds. The cost of owning the car is several thousand pounds a year so the incremental cost is negligible.

A full Audi service history might or might not help with a good will claim when out of warranty, but it’s certainly not going to be seen as a bad thing.

[Sam]

I agree I know it's more expensive but everyone prefers a main dealer history on the car and due to you car being in warranty it will help if it needs work as no one can be blamed for using non gen parts etc. Quite often main dealers will do deals to get the business so always worth getting quotes else where first.

The Block Exception Regulation (BER) means this is simply not true. These regulations make it clear that manufacturers cannot state that their parts must be used nor that all servicing must be done within their network.

See EU Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/http://bis.gov.uk/policies/business-law/competition-matters/competition-policy/european-competition-policy/eu-motor-vehicle-block-exemption-regulation) or search for MVBER to get the full details.

[retired99]

The Block Exception Regulation (BER) means this is simply not true. These regulations make it clear that manufacturers cannot state that their parts must be used nor that all servicing must be done within their network.

See EU Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/http://bis.gov.uk/policies/business-law/competition-matters/competition-policy/european-competition-policy/eu-motor-vehicle-block-exemption-regulation) or search for MVBER to get the full details.


This is true,

However, a vehicle manufacturer may legitimately refuse to honour warranties on the
grounds that the situation leading to the claim in question is causally linked to a
failure of a specific spare part provided by an alternative supplier.

I really wouldn't want to get into a discussion with a manufacturer about that. If the manufacturer says the problem was caused by an alternatively supplied part you don't, in practice, stand much chance of getting them to change their mind.

[Wuffles]

This is true,

However, a vehicle manufacturer may legitimately refuse to honour warranties on the
grounds that the situation leading to the claim in question is causally linked to a
failure of a specific spare part provided by an alternative supplier.

I really wouldn't want to get into a discussion with a manufacturer about that. If the manufacturer says the problem was caused by an alternatively supplied part you don't, in practice, stand much chance of getting them to change their mind.

Where was that copied and pasted from? I'd love to get into a discussion with a dealership (as this is your port of call and your customer facing "desk" to the manufacturer) claiming that caveat.

[retired99]

The site referenced in post#13.

Surely it is reasonable that such a caveat exists. Say you replace a faulty radiator with a sub standard pattern part which doesn't work properly and results in a cooked engine. It would not be reasonable to expect the manufacturer to pay for a new engine.

[Sam]

This is true,

However, a vehicle manufacturer may legitimately refuse to honour warranties on the
grounds that the situation leading to the claim in question is causally linked to a
failure of a specific spare part provided by an alternative supplier.

I really wouldn't want to get into a discussion with a manufacturer about that. If the manufacturer says the problem was caused by an alternatively supplied part you don't, in practice, stand much chance of getting them to change their mind.

They'd have to irrefutably prove that the part caused the defect/issue but yes, I agree.

In the case of this thread, an oil and filter change, any independent worth his hourly rate should know what oil to use and how to fit an oil filter.

For larger repairs/servicing, then of course, one must exercise caution. My point was that people should be fully aware that one does not have to use a dealer/franchised network for everything.

[Wuffles]

Yes, I was referring to servicing, NOT replacing bits and pieces like radiators, that's obviously a whole different ball game.

Question still stands on the "service book" being digital though. Anyone got any ideas?

[retired99]

They'd have to irrefutably prove that the part caused the defect/issue but yes, I agree.

In the case of this thread, an oil and filter change, any independent worth his hourly rate should know what oil to use and how to fit an oil filter.

For larger repairs/servicing, then of course, one must exercise caution. My point was that people should be fully aware that one does not have to use a dealer/franchised network for everything.

In practice if they stated that the pattern part was the cause. What would you then do? How do you prove them wrong without spending much time and treasure.

[Sam]

In practice if they stated that the pattern part was the cause. What would you then do? How do you prove them wrong without spending much time and treasure.

They'd have to prove it was the cause first. I'd ask whomever fitted the part to prove it wasn't the cause. My fitter would, I hope, have already provided parts/labour warranties.

Everyone has their own anecdotal evidence so I may as well add mine - I've not used a dealership for servicing the entire time I've owned my car (10 years this year) and I've had all warranty work done without any fuss whatsoever.

[Wuffles]

They'd have to prove it was the cause first. I'd ask whomever fitted the part to prove it wasn't the cause. My fitter would, I hope, have already provided parts/labour warranties.

Everyone has their own anecdotal evidence so I may as well add mine - I've not used a dealership for servicing the entire time I've owned my car (10 years this year) and I've had all warranty work done without any fuss whatsoever.

It probably doesn't affect you yet then as 10 years ago they gave you a service book and it's all stamped by the Indy, which is cool, but on the newer ones I'm led to believe there's no such thing as a book to stamp.

I'm trying to figure out what happens as I have no intention of going near a dealers for servicing whilst we have the car. First (and very expensive service) was covered by Audi Finance as they are inept and were forced to give us compensation, but I wouldn't return to a dealership out of choice.

[Sam]

It probably doesn't affect you yet then as 10 years ago they gave you a service book and it's all stamped by the Indy, which is cool, but on the newer ones I'm led to believe there's no such thing as a book to stamp.

True in terms of the topic we're discussing but do remember these (those?) were the days warranty issues were being refused for not having full dealership services.

[Wuffles]

No sorry, I mean when you come to sell. Not make a claim under warranty, although, now I come to think of it, you'd have to prove it was serviced by someone other than someone with access to Audi's database.

Last time this question came up, it was suggested (by myself) that the Indy has to ring Audi and get it updated on their system, which is ridiculous of course.

[Sam]

Ah, I misunderstood you, sorry.

There has to be a case of this being put into practice by now. All we (ok you :D) have to do is find that person(!)

[Passatier3]

Just playing devil's advocate, why should Audi etc. have to enter the details of work done by independents into their database? Who pays for the data entry?

Just keep all receipts, though I can accept that like service books they can go missing, so it is useful having the data held elsewhere.

[Wuffles]

Because it's their decision to not provide a book? It seems like it's a deliberate hurdle to persuade one to stick with them. Which seems to be working doesn't it.

[Gmonster]

My thoughts are beginning to turn to planning my first 10K service which is also due circa July this year. I am on the short term service plan and I think I do about 15K miles a a year. I also get the concept of keep using the dealer at least up to the 3 year mark. By way of keeping costs down; does anyone have any experiences of asking dealers if ok that you supplied your own Oil? and what that would save on a £220 first service Bill? I can get 2 No; 4 litre cartons of Castrol Edge 30W Oil from Costco for around £60. If they took £100 to £120 to do the change/supply the filter etc; would it be worth it? (50 quid saving say?) Wonder what Glasgow Audi would say to that request; would they laugh me out the door?

[Passatier3]

Because it's their decision to not provide a book? It seems like it's a deliberate hurdle to persuade one to stick with them. Which seems to be working doesn't it.

Good point, never thought about that. But what happens when a car is sold second-hand through a non-franchised dealer and serviced by an independant? You can't expect Audi or its dealers to enter the data then and I think it unlikely that they will allow third parties to access their systems.

[Johnny31]

Seems I sparked an interesting one... :) So for the careful readers of the original question, if I got an indy to change the oil/filter and ***act as nothing happened*** 'till car tells me to do a service - and then take it to a main dealer (so it looks as the long life thing is done as expected), don't I still end up with a full Audi proper history, etc.? Why would I need to tell them anything was done in between (certainly the oil and filter would be as required, etc.)... Just an idea...


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[Wuffles]

Seems I sparked an interesting one... :) So for the careful readers of the original question, if I got an indy to change the oil/filter and ***act as nothing happened*** 'till car tells me to do a service - and then take it to a main dealer (so it looks as the long life thing is done as expected), don't I still end up with a full Audi proper history, etc.? Why would I need to tell them anything was done in between (certainly the oil and filter would be as required, etc.)... Just an idea...


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You might end up with someone who doesn't agree with the long life servicing complaining that you haven't changed the oil enough and Audi refuse to hand over their database entries anyway so it makes no odds?

You could write a pantomime about this in a few years time.

[Gmonster]

The car is probably fitted with oil quality/life sensors; so changing the oil at 10K; when the car is set to a long life service schedule; could lead to some computer diagnosis shenanigans when you book it in for its 20K service with the dealers: Or not.

[fest0r]

Johnny and Gmonster are thinking along the same lines as I am.

Doing an intermittent third party oil change (Audi oil/filter) midway between the flexible service in theory would be better than just waiting for the oil sensor or 19,000 miles... right? It would save money over the fixed plan and also by (hopefully) combining the oil/inspection service on the flexible plan.

My only worry is it throws up a code and/or screws up the oil sensor. According to the schedule it’s up to 19,000 miles so even if the oil quality was good the service light would come on because the max miles where covered… right? Do Audi record codes from filers used during a service?

I could also pick up a code reader if that’s the only other thing Audi do at an oil change service.

[Necroscope]

I didn't think there was an 'actual' sensor, more that it looked at journey lengths and oil temperatures to determine the actual oil quality at that moment. I could be out do date now though.

however if that is the case still, changing the oil against the service indicator, shouldn't cause a real problem.

[Gmonster]

Yeah we are probably thinking this is more complicated that it actually is. No harm in trying the intermediate oil change (keep the details of proper parts used etc) on a long life service schedule: surely Audi wouldn't mark you down for doing extra oil changes.


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[Gmonster]

Just noticed a post on here of a dealer trying to charge 20 quid a litre for Oil !? Asked this before: has anyone has any success in providing there own oil to dealers?? (is it worth the hassle; just try to get discount; etc )


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[Wuffles]

Just noticed a post on here of a dealer trying to charge 20 quid a litre for Oil !? Asked this before: has anyone has any success in providing there own oil to dealers?? (is it worth the hassle; just try to get discount; etc )


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There's no way this isn't going to come across as sarcastic, and I don't intend it to, but does that fit with the remark you made earlier about "I also get the concept of keep using the dealer at least up to the 3 year mark". What exactly does that concept cover? If it's money saving you are looking for (and everyone is really, it's nothing to be ashamed of) why use the main dealer?

[rickerby]

Hi guys, as I'm about to hit the 10k mark (after 8 months), I guess Audi would put me in the long-life service bucket. Nonetheless, as I still believe in engine running in, etc. , I'd like to get the oil changed. Sooo, should I:
1. Go to the main dealer and splash some serious cash;
2. Go to an indy now for the oil/filter change and act as nothing happened until car tells me that it is time for the service?
3. Just wait for it to let me know the time is right (according to the car, I have more than a year or next 18k before oil change?!?!)?

I definitely want to keep it 10ish years so want to keep a good care of it but still save some money on the way... :)

Thanks for the opinions!



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I suspect it wont be long before your car asks for an oil change anyway. Look at the service check section in MMI and it will tell you. If you dont do big mileages long life means nothing in Audi speak these days. It will still call you in for an oil change well in advance of 12 months. At over £200 a pop (I know lawyers with lower hourly rates than Audi mechanics) its a very expensive business and a complete rip off!

[Gmonster]

Wuffles: The 'Dealer - 3 year concept' refers to keeping using the dealer for services; to build up good-will to aid trouble free warranty claims within the first 3 years; and potentially even beyond this period: Thot that was the main thrust of this thread; eg; would like to stick with main dealer; but would also like to make some savings where possible (Like; use indy for intermediate oil changes, or ask dealer to use customer provided oil etc): Didnt take/detect any sarcasm from your comment by the way.
There's no way this isn't going to come across as sarcastic, and I don't intend it to, but does that fit with the remark you made earlier about "I also get the concept of keep using the dealer at least up to the 3 year mark". What exactly does that concept cover? If it's money saving you are looking for (and everyone is really, it's nothing to be ashamed of) why use the main dealer?

[Wuffles]

Wuffles: The 'Dealer - 3 year concept' refers to keeping using the dealer for services; to build up good-will to aid trouble free warranty claims within the first 3 years; and potentially even beyond this period: Thot that was the main thrust of this thread; eg; would like to stick with main dealer; but would also like to make some savings where possible (Like; use indy for intermediate oil changes, or ask dealer to use customer provided oil etc): Didnt take/detect any sarcasm from your comment by the way.

Ok, I don't get it at all, but ok.

Mind you, I've been through three different dealers with the problems on the Wife's car, and considering some of the problems were actually caused by dealers you can perhaps understand my scepticism. The amount of blame being attributed to the last dealership that "fixed" the car each time isn't confidence inspiring either.

My local guy would just do a good job, but then, he's not a faceless organisation, his reputation depends on it.

Don't forget, you'd be taking away mark-up from their supplying the oil remember, you might find yourself with a black mark against your name (I'm joking, probably).

[Gmonster]

Yeah that's why I was curious about the providing the oil thing. The dealer might be offended. (hah)


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[ScottyA6]

Just noticed a post on here of a dealer trying to charge 20 quid a litre for Oil !? Asked this before: has anyone has any success in providing there own oil to dealers?? (is it worth the hassle; just try to get discount; etc )


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One of my colleagues at work always supplies his own oil when he takes his car in to the dealer. Apart from a few raised eyebrows they have never refused to use it.

[Scott K]

Guys, do these cars have dipsticks? I didn't even check when I had a test drive but my wife's a4 doesn't have one. Also, does anyone have any idea what the sports diff oil change will cost. Think it needs done every 38k. Cheers, Scott

[Necroscope]

There's a joke in there somewhere Scott ;-)

No dipstick to the best of my knowledge, it was an option on the A4 IIRC.

[Gmonster]

No dipstick on the latest A6: you check oil levels via CAR menu in MMI. Don't know about the sports diff lube requirements.


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[fest0r]

Do you have to manually select fixed or flexible servicing when uplifting the car or is this automated?

[Whippy53]

Mine was set on annual.

[fest0r]

Set by the dealership when you picked it up? Did they ask you for a preference or recommend it based on your millage?

[Sam]

Yeah that's why I was curious about the providing the oil thing. The dealer might be offended. (hah)


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It is your car.

If they are offended there are plenty of other Dealerships, none of which you have to use ;)

[Johnny31]

oh well, called the service and the outcome is: it will set me back £238. Did it as I want them to look at my DAB radio that drops the connection every now and then. I was also informed that they will upgrade the software for the steering ... ughhh

[Gmonster]

Be good to get some feedback/breakdown of that stiff bill: cost of Oil etc? . Also your DAB issue: mine occasionally drops out but I was just putting it down to local dab reception issues.


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[ScottyA6]

The lack of a dipstick on modern cars flummoxes me. Why do we need a complicated computer hardware and software combination to replace a strip of metal that a. Worked perfectly and b. was obviously less expensive to make ? It's like the expensive piece of machinery I was looking at while out shopping on Saturday whose sole purpose was to remove the skin from an apple. Good grief !

[Johnny31]

Be good to get some feedback/breakdown of that stiff bill: cost of Oil etc? . Also your DAB issue: mine occasionally drops out but I was just putting it down to local dab reception issues.


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Sure - will report back (but I'll certainly try to get than one slightly down as it's outrageous). RE:DAB, in the beginning, I thought the same. The issue is however that when it happens, all the reception is gone (it does not go back to FM which it should!).hence, I guess it needs to be looked at...


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[Scott K]

That's interesting about the DAB. My wife's car does the same so I will ask them to check it out when hers goes in for the first service. Didn't realise it should switch back. On the commute into town it goes off 3 times and then comes back on but it definitely doesn't go to FM.

[Wuffles]

That's interesting about the DAB. My wife's car does the same so I will ask them to check it out when hers goes in for the first service. Didn't realise it should switch back. On the commute into town it goes off 3 times and then comes back on but it definitely doesn't go to FM.

I'm fairly sure I'm pointing out the obvious here, but you have to be listening to a DAB channel that also exists as an FM channel for that to work. Radio 6 for example cuts out in my van a few times in Bristol, clear as a bell back down in the sticks though.

[Johnny31]

HUH! Phoned Basingstoke Audi just to get the second quote (useful sometimes :-)) and was told £286?!?!?!
This is silly - 30 miles / 50 quid difference? Yes, I bought an expensive car but that does not mean I'm stupid with my money. Just as an idea, should we try to form a list of "standard" things that are done to our cars and put numbers/places against them. That way, it would give us some leverage upfront and the expectations could be set much easier... Also, you'd know when they are trying to rip you off!!!

[Wuffles]

O̶r̶ ̶v̶o̶t̶e̶ ̶w̶i̶t̶h̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶f̶e̶e̶t̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶g̶o̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶a̶n̶ ̶i̶n̶d̶y̶?̶

Yes, that's probably a good idea. You could also add which dealerships do not charge for a courtesy car's insurance excess waiver (or those that can be pushed to waiving) as that's a saving right there.

[Gmonster]

So Johnny; how much did your oil/labour/tire kicking. . . end up costing you??


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[Johnny31]

So Johnny; how much did your oil/labour/tire kicking. . . end up costing you??


Sorry guys, got stuck with the everyday stuff but here we go:
- Audi Slough: very nice experience overall; one big minus but we'll cover it in a separate point;
- Pleasantly surprised as the bill came at £225: cheaper than quoted!!! I wasn't expecting that... :)
- the items on the bill were as expected: some oil, a washer, visual inspection, tyre check...
- they looked at my DAB and changed some settings on the MMI as per the Audi instructions; I'm not convinced that it will solve the issue of blackouts with full control loss of radio during them but was told to keep an eye and report back if it does not go away;
- I also asked for the airbag cover on the steering wheel to be looked at as the edges on it are very sharp; waiting for the new one to be sourced;
- they upgraded the infamous sw for steering!!! now that's the one I'm pi**ed about! The tech told me (when I asked before hand is it necessary, etc.) that I will not be able to feel the difference... Well, I almost crashed the car on the way home... It is a proper RUBISH.. :( keeping it on dynamic now and it is worse than it was on comfort....When I go back for the sharp-edged cover, i will pick up a fight on this! grrrrrr
- oh and they DID wash the car although I said no... no visible damage as that ceramic stuff does the job brilliantly but now I cannot get them the "extremely satisfied" tick box....
- lastly, I must note that tyre wise, I'm happy as still have 5mm on the front and 6mm on the back after 10k miles. Given I do have a heavy right foot and love my roundabouts, that's not bad at all!!! ;)

[Wuffles]

some oil, a washer

A washer or some washer fluid?

[Johnny31]

A washer or some washer fluid?
here's the full invoice...23854

[Wuffles]

Well, I have a couple of problems with that, if it is a washer like it seems to suggest it may be (but probably isn't, their system was probably designed by the clown I dealt with at Bristol Audi).

1. Why are you paying for a failed or missing washer.
2. Why is there a failed or missing washer in the first place?! Which leads me back to 1.

[daycartes]

I think that the washer is a replacement following an oil change.

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[Johnny31]

I think that the washer is a replacement following an oil change.

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That was my impression as well... Nonetheless, as I'll go back in a few days, I'll certainly ask.:p

[Wuffles]

Makes sense actually.

However, to all those supplying their own oil to save a few quid, might as well drop round a washer too then at £2 odd plus the vat.

[Gmonster]

Good point on the supply your own washer: I've got a box of them in the garage of various shapes and sizes: Has anybody got a picture of this actual washer?? (joking...joking...)

Thanks for the info Johnny: Interesting: Your receipt says 'carry out oil change service within context of long-life servicing' So that means that you remain on long life servicing, but have just purchased an oil change service for £225 quid. My car set to the short term service regime: So I'm now wondering if the first service charge will be the same? (better be...)

On the Oil Cost: Yours cost £72 dealer supplied. You could buy your own (with a little left over) for £60: So probably not worth the hassle of providing your own.

[Johnny31]

Good point on the supply your own washer: I've got a box of them in the garage of various shapes and sizes: Has anybody got a picture of this actual washer?? (joking...joking...)

Thanks for the info Johnny: Interesting: Your receipt says 'carry out oil change service within context of long-life servicing' So that means that you remain on long life servicing, but have just purchased an oil change service for £225 quid. My car set to the short term service regime: So I'm now wondering if the first service charge will be the same? (better be...)

On the Oil Cost: Yours cost £72 dealer supplied. You could buy your own (with a little left over) for £60: So probably not worth the hassle of providing your own.

Just choose your service carefully - see my previous post re:price difference. Also, it's not £60 vs £72 - you need to add vat to the later - hence, still might save a bit...

[Gmonster]

Need to see if I can choose my service as you indicate: I am on the short/fixed service interval; so car is allready indicating to me I am due a 'service' at 9000 miles.
If I can stipulate a oil change service (for around £225) then smashing. Anyhoos...All good info to use at the time of booking service.

Oil Costs: Yeah forgot the VAT: That would take the 'provide your own' oil saving up to around £26: still not a huge amount. Thanks for info.


Just choose your service carefully - see my previous post re:price difference. Also, it's not £60 vs £72 - you need to add vat to the later - hence, still might save a bit...

[AvantB5CJ]

It will be a sump plug or sump plug washer which needs to be replaced on every oil change to prevent leaks between services. Every decent dealership will replace it.

[MarkTM]

Surely the sensible thing to do would be to stick to extended with dealer and get an indy to oil changes at say 9k? That way you get your digital stamp and have peace-of-mind.

One thing that I always do whether Indy or Dealer is to supply my own OEM spec fluids, as apart from the labour costs, it's the fluids that knock up the price. My Jag dealer was originally quite obstructive/dismissive but I simply pointed them to the legislation. Receipt for my tranny change read 'customer supplied correct spec transmission fluid' considering I paid £5 a litre delivered and their price was £24+VAT I saved a rather large amount....same applies to oil and coolant.

[Gmonster]

Yeah; (going over previous ground here a bit but. . .) I want to keep my dealer sweet/onboard in the 3 yr warranty period: But also; in these testing financial times; I want to explore all avenues in keeping costs down. Think I will test this provide your own fluids option when first service time comes. After all; I've got the 2-3 family holidays a year ; and regular steak dinners regime . . to try and maintain you know. 😊


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[4 Rings]

Oil change just completed today at 6 months and 10K for £175.32 with dealer supplied oil (I didnt think that was bad for the Bi Turbo). They had no problem me supplying my own oil if I wanted to.

Dealer claims the car was on variable, which is a bit of a surprise, oil change at 10k !!

Anyone know where to check what it is set to ? somewhere with the Vag I guess.

So car is "still" on variable as both my previous S4 (90K) and now RS6 (69K) are.

[Johnny31]

Oil change just completed today at 6 months and 10K for £175.32 with dealer supplied oil (I didnt think that was bad for the Bi Turbo). They had no problem me supplying my own oil if I wanted to.

Dealer claims the car was on variable, which is a bit of a surprise, oil change at 10k !!

Anyone know where to check what it is set to ? somewhere with the Vag I guess.

So car is "still" on variable as both my previous S4 (90K) and now RS6 (69K) are.

That is awesome... Could you share with us which dealer that is as it is dirt cheap comparing to anything else out there... To be cheeky, maybe even a scan of your bill so we can compare it with mine (item wise)?

[fest0r]

Anyone know where to check what it is set to ? somewhere with the Vag I guess.

I would love to know this too… also if there is a choice to make when picking the car up or if fixed/variable is automated by your driving style and mileage. I will be asking the dealer nearer the time, but I have already been given incorrect info about servicing plans (corrected here ;)) so I would like the correct info first :D

[4 Rings]

That is awesome... Could you share with us which dealer that is as it is dirt cheap comparing to anything else out there... To be cheeky, maybe even a scan of your bill so we can compare it with mine (item wise)?

Stafford Audi..... been using them for many many years (generally get discount as a...... errr valued customer lol ), both to purchase and service. Will scan probably tomorrow..

[Necroscope]

I use Stafford, most reasonable price and they don't wash your car if you tell them not to ;-)

[Gmonster]

Can you not tell which service regime you are set to via the MMI menu: in the Car: Service; sub menus? Will check. My dealer said that the dealer sets up regime prior to car delivery. I specifically requested 'fixed' but starting to think 'variable' and going for extra 10k oil change services might be best value option. Be good to see wording on the £175 bill to see if it's worded in any particular way.


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[Gmonster]

Looked in MMI regarding setting of service regime. Looks like regime is set by dealer via VCDS only. Looks like you can reset the oil service interval when you get an 'extra' oil service tho.


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[Gmonster]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/18/upuqaga3.jpg


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[Gmonster]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/18/re2y7y3u.jpg


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[Johnny31]

BTW for all interested in supplying their own oil, Costco have 20% off on the large selection, including our spec... Maybe help somebody save a few £££

[Gmonster]

That's spooky Johnny; as I was just about to post this. 4 litres of Castrol edge 30w for £24 at Costco. 7 litres required for a service. Will be stocking up/providing my own oil I think.


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[Johnny31]

That's spooky Johnny; as I was just about to post this. 4 litres of Castrol edge 30w for £24 at Costco. 7 litres required for a service. Will be stocking up/providing my own oil I think.


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LOL
Wasn't there a saying starting with 'great minds...'? :)

[Gmonster]

Yeah plus it's better than the TV this interaction. Hah.


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[ninjabob]

Well I don't seem to have got mine done at a bargain price. 2012 2.0 TDI Multi. Service came up at two years from purchase with just 11K covered (I have access to two other cars and a motorbike).

£369.94 inc vat

Carried out Flexible oil & inspection £172.25
Oil Filter £7.60
Screw £1.89
Cleaner £3.79
Engine oil £72.20
Pollen Filter £13.25
Filter INS £37.30

Ouch!

London Dealer - Not exactly cheap considering the low mileage covered.

I don't understand how one mans oil change can be dearer than the next - anyone like to enlighten me?

[shabazmo]

Wait until the 4 year service. about £700 with the gearbox oil change and fuel filter.

[Wuffles]

Wait until the 4 year service. about £700 with the gearbox oil change and fuel filter.

But you wouldn't be going main dealer at 4 years would you?!

[Passatier3]

Well I don't seem to have got mine done at a bargain price. 2012 2.0 TDI Multi. Service came up at two years from purchase with just 11K covered (I have access to two other cars and a motorbike).

£369.94 inc vat

Carried out Flexible oil & inspection £172.25
Oil Filter £7.60
Screw £1.89
Cleaner £3.79
Engine oil £72.20
Pollen Filter £13.25
Filter INS £37.30

Ouch!

London Dealer - Not exactly cheap considering the low mileage covered.

I don't understand how one mans oil change can be dearer than the next - anyone like to enlighten me?

I'm in exactly the same position with having other cars and motorbikes (those these don't really impact on my car use) and have only covered about 5k. in 12 months.

So I'm going to have an oil and filter change soon. At main dealer but I hope it's going to be cheaper than yours!

The variable/Longlife servicing interval is going to be too long for me.

[MarkTM]

Obviously labour rates differ around the country, with London or any other major city being highest, down here in Somerset we have probably the lowest labour rates, at my Jag dealer it's a mere (?) £80 per hour

But if you supply your own oil it will cost you circa £50 and you'll still have between 3 & 5 liters left and it would shave £25 off the cost

A couple of questions though on the items used

Cleaner?
Filter INS?

Since oil and pollen filters are accounted for is INS the air filter, if so seems a little high since an OEM air filter (for my C6 3.0 at least) costs just £24.98 inc VAT, or are they more expensive for C7's :confused:

PS: I always ask for my old filters to be returned, (as I do with any part that's replaced) just so I can have a higher level of confidence in them actually being done. :)

[Passatier3]

I'll give them a ring soon and get a quote.

Good idea about the filters, especially if you have an interim service like I did with my wife's Mini and they may feel it doesn't need replacing anyway!

[Gmonster]

So the first service/oil change is looming. Sitting at 6700 miles or so in 6 months. Have bought the Oil to provide to dealer to carry out change. The oil I bought is Castrol GTX Edge (see pics) Question is: Have I got the right oil for 10,000 mile oil changes? Don't want the dealer rejecting my provided Oil. Reason for asking is that I see a Castrol Edge oil labelled as 'long service interval' or something similar. Hope I haven't bought the wrong Oil.http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/apetu9yd.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/7aqumaze.jpg


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[shabazmo]

If it says spec is 507.00, then it is the right oil or better, albeit you could have used a cheaper version. But why are you servicing the car after 6 months and 6,700 miles. Why not let Audi do the whole job.

[Gmonster]

Shab; Thanks for response. Not servicing now. Going to wait for the 10k mark and ask Audi to service with my Oil. Just asking/checking with network that I have purchased the right Oil. Will check that spec you quoted. Cheers.


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[Gmonster]

Update: had my first oil change service last week. Went with my own oil etc. service guy had to ask service manager if they would use my oil; but it came back with a yes. Told me to keep the original Costco receipt with service receipt in case of any future warranty issues etc. chap said the book price was circa £215 but using my own oil brought this down to £115 which I thot was ok. Then they were late in getting the car back to me; (about an hour maybe) I had a very slight moan/pace about; and the service chap apologised and said the service was free of charge. Result!


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[Gmonster]

Now sitting at 18.1k miles and booked car in for inspection service in jan 2015. Chap originally quoted circa £320 for in effect a oil change and pollen filter change. Wow! Me providing my own oil brought it down to circa £230 but still expensive. I said so and the chap said they would discount it further on the day. Hmmmm.


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[mark86]

Chap originally quoted circa £320 for in effect a oil change and pollen filter change. Wow!


Getting mine done tomorrow at Audi Oxford, orignal quote:


1st Variable Service £311.87

Replace Pollen Filter £59.40

[Gmonster]

2.0 tdi here. So is that circa 370 in total? Wow again.


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[Gmonster]

Bit if an aside; but the service chappie also said that Audi have now directed that fuel filters last the life of the car; unless there is a related fault diagnosis. Surprising.


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[OVI82]

What???A diesel/fuel filter for the life of the car??You'll soon have oil and all other filters for the life of the car which in Audi language means as long as they put a warranty on it.And than have most second hand buyers come back to them to fix all sorts of problems as a result of never changing filters.....

[Gmonster]

Yes sounds like another audi money saving gimmick if its true. You either insist that audi change the fuel (and air?) filters at the required intervals (40K?) or go to an indi for a much cheaper and simpler service routine.

What???A diesel/fuel filter for the life of the car??You'll soon have oil and all other filters for the life of the car which in Audi language means as long as they put a warranty on it.And than have most second hand buyers come back to them to fix all sorts of problems as a result of never changing filters.....

[Gmonster]

Update: my 2.0 tdi now booked into Glasgow Audi for 40k service. Originally quoted c£500. Me providing my own oil brings this down to £400 which seems steep to me. According to service person a fuel filter change is part of this at c£100 (goes against previous comment that fuel filter would not be changed till much later)

So...ooooo... I got my 20k service for c£200 with me providing my own oil... So this service should comin at around c£300. Need to use my negotiating skills when I take car in etc.


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[Scott K]

My service was £513 at 37,000 miles. That was fuel filter, oil filter, pollen filter and air filter. The first service was £300 so the prices seem to be in line. I did get my oil changed at 9k for £190 but I am now doing the interim oil changes myself as it only takes 20 mins and costs me about £50 for the oil and filter.

[A6S]

One of the dealers I spoke to for my previous a6 was wanting £20+ per litre of oil. They were using shell helix ultra. Told the boy the shell garage across the road sells that stuff for cheaper and with some humming and hawing they dropped the prices by around £70 for the service so it's worth trying to negotiate a better price.

[Gmonster]

Thanks for responses. Scott: so the 40k service price includes the air filter? Missed that ; which helps justify the price. Think I will ask to have returned the old filters; keen to see the knick of the pollen filter and whether it's justified these regular changes. The air filter I imagine will be manky and well justified in changing. Cheers.


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[Gmonster]

My service was £513 at 37,000 miles. That was fuel filter, oil filter, pollen filter and air filter. The first service was £300 so the prices seem to be in line. I did get my oil changed at 9k for £190 but I am now doing the interim oil changes myself as it only takes 20 mins and costs me about £50 for the oil and filter.

Scott: was going to ask. I'm considering doing the interim oil changes myself as you do. Is it a easy task? Do you use a suction pump? Do you need ramps? (Lift the car etc) Is the filter easy to reach/remove? Sorry for the multiple questions; any tips on this gratefully received.

[Scott K]

It's really easy. I use a suction pump. There is a small pipe to the right of the engine with a plug in it, this is where the dipstick would go. I suck out the oil from there and get out 6.5 l. By the time I have removed the oil filter, it is done. The oil filter is accessed from the top of the engine and you need a 36mm spanner or socket for the housing. Very easy to do. The filter comes with a new o-ring.

[Gmonster]

It's really easy. I use a suction pump. There is a small pipe to the right of the engine with a plug in it, this is where the dipstick would go. I suck out the oil from there and get out 6.5 l. By the time I have removed the oil filter, it is done. The oil filter is accessed from the top of the engine and you need a 36mm spanner or socket for the housing. Very easy to do. The filter comes with a new o-ring.

Thanks for the info Scott. Will have a look for the dip stick pipe and oil filter location. May come back with some supplementary queries.

What make oil do you use? ( I am currently using castrol edge fully synthetic which is probably over over expensive for 10k oil changes ) Do you use an Audi oil filter? Thanks again.

[MarkTM]

Good to know it's the same as with my C6, although with mine (C6) I always found that I got a full litre more out by removing the sump plug than by using a pump. So by virtue of not having 15% of the old cruddy oil contaminating the new I now always put my C6 on ramps and do it the proper way.

Remember to remove the oil filler cannister, dipstick plug and the oil filler cap as the air release/pressure works in the same way as making two holes in a can of condensed milk to make it pour out easier :)

Was lucky enough to pick up 25l of quantum longlife for £90, which will see me OK for 3 x changes and cost a mere £3.60pl :)

[shabazmo]

I concur with Mark and always drain from the sump having tried the suction method. Having said that, I have a pit in my garage and if I did not. I would just use the suction method.

[Gmonster]

Think that access to the dipstick pipe must mean that you get too the bottom of the sump so to speak. Plus hopefully 10k changes means that there won't be too much crud that would be needing flushed out etc.

Mark: thanks for reminder in opening up airways to ease flow of oil. Also for reference to Quantum long life. I can get the castrol edge for £25 for four litres... but it's a wee bit pricey...

I just bought a 'speedline' oil suction pump at Lidl today £12.


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[Scott K]

I use an Audi filter-think the part number is 059 198 405 made by Mahle. Currently using Mobil 1 because Opie oils had a good deal on it and that was what the dealers used last time. I see costco have the castrol edge at £25 at the moment so will get a couple of them to keep the stocks up!

[Gmonster]

With regard to changing your own oil using a suction pump; looking for some confirmation/advice. This first pic is the oil extraction pipe with the wee blanking cap? Could someone confirm. http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160707/51386ba393b74bb52657ae82921b39df.jpg


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[Gmonster]

This second pic shows the oil filter top cover which must be removed to fit the new oil filter? Again can someone please confirm. Just doing the planning for doing a mid 20k oil change myself. Thanks in anticipation. http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160707/f1cb2428fe173701211a34cbd139c11a.jpg


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[Scott K]

The second one is right but not sure on the first. Below is a picture of the tube and cap on mine. It's visible just in front of the engine cover.31077
Apologies, the pic has turned but the oil extraction tube is just above the screw.

[Gmonster]

Thanks for the response Scott. I will have another look. The tube in my picture is not visible without taking the engine cover off etc. It does look like the likely candidate tho. I have the 2.0 tdc engine?


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[Scott K]

Could easily be as I haven't seen the 2.0 tdi engine. Mine is where the dipstick would go if that helps.

[Gmonster]

Thanks Scott. Shall do a wee test and see if I can 'strike oil'. Good info... [emoji106]


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