Expert answer

Hi Deirdre,

You should be fine. As always with a premium badge car, look for a full service history, but seeing as an A3 is essentially a Golf in a swanky frock, it's actually pretty simple under the skin. That 1.6-litre engine is an older design, and pretty bulletproof, but at that kind of mileage make sure things like timing belt changes have been done and check for any obvious signs of wear and tear. There were issues with 2005 models with both fuel pumps and flywheels, but both problems should have been sorted by recalls.

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Hi Cormac,

Interesting one this. To be frank, it was news to us. We don't have a standardised headlight test on CompleteCar.ie (perhaps we should), but a trawl of the Audi-based internet forums does indeed seem to show that many C5 owners do have doubts about the power of their lights, especially on dipped beam.

While we can't find any definitive evidence that the facelifted model is any better, it seems that there are two potential fixes to the problem. One is to replace the standard bulbs with better models - and we've seen German-made Flosser bulbs recommended. Philips also produces a line of higher-output bulbs that may be worth a look. The other issue may be the state of the headlamp lenses, and any problems there can potentially be fixed by a good clean. Cleaning kits are available from most good motor factors. Incidentally, beware an aftermarket upgrade to a HID or Xenon headlight set. If it doesn't conform exactly to the original equipment specification, then there are doubts over the legality of such units and it could potentially lead to an NCT failure.

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Hi Alan,

If it’s the 2.0-litre TDI, then that’s €710 a year. Unless it’s been imported since 2008, in which case it’ll be €570.

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Hi Basil,

You shouldn't have any major problems. The Exeo is basically an old-shape Audi A4, updated to keep it going into a new life as a SEAT so all of the components have been used and proved for a long time now. There certainly aren't any problems with the car common enough to warrant reporting and SEATs tend to be very reliable and solid.

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Hi Flamor,

We believe this means the car reckons it's time to have a service. You'll need to take it to an Audi dealer or a garage with proper diagnostic equipment to have this checked and reset.

Let us know how you get on.

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Hi Marc,

Well, both cars will be more or less equally economical over that kind of mileage, but you'll be filling the Skoda up more frequently as it has a smaller fuel tank. 

Even so, we'd say go for the Skoda. With kids (growing kids at that) you'll find the space in the back and the gargantuan boot are blessings from the car gods. The Audi may be slightly sharper to drive and certainly more handsome but as family wheels the Superb really is hard to beat.

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Hi Tricia,

The new Mazda6 is a fantastic car and definitely comparable to the Audi A4 of equivalent value. The Mazda comes with a powerful and economical 2.2-litre diesel engine, which is refined and decently fast when needed. The car itself is more spacious than the Audi inside, plus of just as good quality. It's also comfortable and good to drive. In all, we thoroughly recommend it.

Here's our Irish test of the Mazda6 Tourer for reference.

Let us know how you get on.

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Hi Mervyn,

Not too bad actually. As with any older car, look for a full and proper service history of course, but that aside check for ignition coil problems and faulty instruments. And they're so well built that if the car you're looking at has lots of squeaks and rattles it's been badly abused.

Expert answer

Hi Ken,

That kind of mileage knocks a good chunk off the price so you're probably looking at a retail of around €17,000, and a trade-in value of around €15,000.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Ciaran,

Yes. We like the Insignia and it does a pretty good impression of an Audi A4 for a lot less money. As with any long-run mass-produced car, keep an eye out for faults and while the Insignia is well built, gearbox and steering issues are not unheard of. The 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engine is the best one to go for, especially in ECOFlex form as it's in Band A for road tax and if you can track down one of the gorgeous and practical estates. you're on to a winner.

Let us know how you get on