Opinions on sending a car back to Audi

Schlaag

Bwah
Joined
Jul 10, 2007
Messages
486
Reaction score
34
Points
28
Location
Kent
Good evening all. Would you kindly care to let me know your opinions on the below.

I bought a 2011 black edition S3 from Audi themselves today and upon scanning it when I got home found out that it seems they have fitted or it has fitted an older nav unit (pre face lift) and is missing the standard 'black edition' production fit Bose speakers.

The car is showing 4 faults relating to the nav unit not sensing a cd changer / media unit so clearly it's from a different car

There is also no security code card

Would I have, in your opinion recourse to reject the car if they do not resolve?

I also found a handover check sheet from when they received the car, stuffed in the back of the cars handbook showing that they too had scanned the car and got the 4 nav fault codes with a comment "need further time to investigate" I was never told about this during the sale.
 
I think you have a pretty good reason to come back to them and ask for these issues to be fixed or return the car as an alternative. Isn't there some money bacl guarantee for aproved-used?
 
are you sure this nav wasn't a retrofit unit ?

check the codes on the sticker in the service book see if it came with nav from factory
 
You got it only today???

you have grounds to reject the car, I'm assuming its cost you a decent five figure sum?? it should be like NEW!!!

at the very least they should just be able to put everything right, and probably quite quickly

before you take it back.. go over the rest of the car like a forensic scientist incase there's other stuff wrong

legally you can reject a car from a dealership within the first 6 months of the purchase date
 
Check to see what it left the factory with, lets face it most in the dealership wouldnt bother to check to see it the nav has been retrofitted
 
Tbh mate, its only a simple coding issue to sort the fault codes, so apart from the fact it should of been done pre sale it doesnt mean its a bad car.
If you look at the facts, it just seems the RNSE has been changed to an older version for whatever reason and probably nothing to do with the supplying dealer. You could try them for a replacement but I don't see why they would tbh.
The Bose is not something that can be easily removed as the car is wired different to a non Bose one so maybe it was spec'd without it. Check the sticker in the service book or boot and enter the codes into the online options checker.
Does the rest of the car seem legit? If so just push the dealer to sort your concerns. I dont think you can just hand the car back if you dont like it?
 
  • Like
Reactions: Ash187
Any pics of the car and do you want to say where it came from?
 
Go back to the dealer. Tell them you're not happy and why. Keep it polite and ask them to investigate the following

1. Please check Sat Nav unit manufacture date (they'll need to remove this to see the sticker) and ask them to capture this on their fancy service camera. Look on the spec sheet - did it have Sat Nav or has someone added afterwards. If they've added afterwards you cant really expect the dealer to ensure it matches the year of manufacture!
2. Advise them that you believe all Black Editions came with BOSE and you assumed that as this is an Audi approved car that the original specification is still intact. Ask them to investigate and advise if BOSE is present or if it was spec'd without BOSE or the BOSE has been removed.
3. Ask for the security code card.
4. Give them time to investigate the 4 fault codes and give them a copy of the sheet that's in the handbook. Advise them that you're disappointed this wasn't mentioned at the time of sale and that it wasn't investigated and resolved prior to your pickup.

Personally, I would go straight to the service manager and/or used car sales manager and explain that you're not happy. If you want to retain the car ask them to resolve the issues and put back the car to the specification you believed it to be. Give them time but, you'll probably need to book the car in to get a courtesy car whilst yours is in getting the issues resolved.

To be fair most of your issues are 'cosmetic' and relate to the interior and how it looks and operates - I'm not a lawyer but, I wouldn't have thought you'd have grounds to reject the car based on a sat nav which may not match the year of manufacture and BOSE speakers not being there. These are things you should have checked when looking at the car and before handing over any money. Also be sure that 'all' black editions should have BOSE as I'm no expert on whether they had that spec or not. If they were on the spec sheet which is on your service book (and I think on a sticker in the boot as well) then you could argue that you assumed BOSE should be present and if its been removed you want it putting back as it wasn't explained to you that it was removed. Again look back at the original advert - did it state that it had BOSE?

Remember buying Audi approved doesn't give you any rights to get a refund - it can provide a 30 day exchange period for you to take advantage of and that's only when there is an irreparable fault.

Good luck and let us know how you get on.
 
  • Like
Reactions: mister.c., Schlaag, Ash187 and 3 others
Thanks for the info guys, appreciated. I put the vin number in http://www.vindecoderz.com and its listing it as unknown

Is this usual? Am awaiting the business manager to call

thank you

Manufacturer:
AUDI.png
Audi Germany
Brand:
Audi
Model:
Unknown model
Check:
6
Year:
2011
Sequential number:
01427
 
Ive just put the codes in from the boot sticker

"no special edition" concerns me... Wouldn't it be listed as a black edition!??

Seems it came with sat nav, just not the one in the car.

Would someone with a black edition be kind enough to check their edition code in their boot?

My initial suspicions are that its not a factory black edition and that the original sat nav was stolen and replaced with the current. That would explain things.

E0A = No special edition
7A0 = Without CD changer/CD player
4UF = Drivers and front passenger air bag with front passenger air bag deactivation
6XD = Exterior mirrors: electrically adjustable/heated
5SJ = Left exterior mirror: convex
5RU = Right exterior mirror: convex (large viewing field)
1KW = Disc brakes, rear
J0L = Battery 340 A (70 Ah)
1ZK = Disc brakes, front
1AT = Electronic stabilization program (ESP)
3FA = Without roof insert (standard roof)
UB5 = Rear shock absorption for sports design
G12 = Front shock absorption
5TL = Decorative inserts in piano lacquer
7X0 = Without park distance control
4R4 = Power windows with comfort operation andcircuit breaker
F0A = No special purpose vehicle, standard equipment
8GU = Alternator 140 A
0YC = Weight range 3 installation control only, no requirement forecast
L30 = Suspension range 30 installation control only, no requirement forecast
TA2 = 4-cylinder gasoline engine 2.0 L unit 06F.D
3NZ = Rear seat bench unsplit, backrest split folding
8BP = Bi-functional headlight with gas discharge lamp
U1B = Instrument insert with mph speedometer, clock, tachometer and trip odometer
X3B = National sales program Spain (FBU)
1N3 = Speed-related variable steering assist (Servotronic)
2PK = Leather trimmed multi-function sports steering wheel w/ Tiptronic
8Q3 = Automatic headlight-range adjustment dynamic (self-adjusting while driving)
9Q7 = Multi-function display/on-board computer
8Z5 = Not hot country
D3Q = 4-cyl. gasoline engine 2.0 l/195 kW 16V turbo FSI, homogeneous Base engine is TA2
7Q2 = Navigation system with color screen
C1B = Alloy wheels 7.5J x 18
7K0 = Without tire pressure warning light
4X3 = Side air bag front with curtain air bag
3L3 = Manual height adjustment for front seats
VW1 = Side windows tinted green, from B-pillarto rear window gray tinted safety glass
3Y6 = Sun screen for rear window
4K4 = Radio remote controlled central locking
5D1 = Carrier frequency 433.92 MHz-434.42 Mhz
1SA = Without additional front underbody guard
UG1 = Hill hold control
7MG = Emission standard EU5
QG1 = Service interval prolongation
4GQ = Windshield in heat-insulating glass
 
Last edited:
A few pictures of my concern guys, if it helps.
 

Attachments

  • FullSizeRender.jpg
    FullSizeRender.jpg
    235 KB · Views: 268
  • IMG_4415.JPG
    IMG_4415.JPG
    48.3 KB · Views: 254
  • IMG_4416.JPG
    IMG_4416.JPG
    31.9 KB · Views: 261
  • IMG_4417.JPG
    IMG_4417.JPG
    101 KB · Views: 271
  • IMG_4418.JPG
    IMG_4418.JPG
    47.4 KB · Views: 254
  • IMG_4419.JPG
    IMG_4419.JPG
    78.5 KB · Views: 269
I'll hazard a guess that the correct RNSE which would of been in the car from new has been stolen and rather than claiming on the insurance they've purchased a second hand unit.
 
Same thoughts here Aiden.

I spoke to the manager earlier and i'm dropping the car back to them on Friday so they can look in to it all.

He agreed the car should have bose as it was advertised. And shows up on the car history as having been fitted. As you can see though from the speaker grilles... it certainly looks standard. Not sure how else I can check, dont really want to start removing panels to look at the rear of the speaker units.

Not sure what recourse I have with the sat nav to be honest... I want one that matches the cars age though!
 
Same thoughts here Aiden.

I spoke to the manager earlier and i'm dropping the car back to them on Friday so they can look in to it all.

He agreed the car should have bose as it was advertised. And shows up on the car history as having been fitted. As you can see though from the speaker grilles... it certainly looks standard. Not sure how else I can check, dont really want to start removing panels to look at the rear of the speaker units.

Not sure what recourse I have with the sat nav to be honest... I want one that matches the cars age though!

Of course you want one that matches the cars age, you've paid for it so you want it.

As daft as it sounds, if the car has BOSE then maybe it's possible that the speaker grilles have been unclipped and flogged on or they were stolen with the RNSE, i've seen BOSE speaker grilles go on ebay for £150!
 
That thought crossed my mind too! I'm going to whip out the rns-e and take a few pics this week. I'll keep you guys informed how this goes.

Really appreciate the advice and knowledge shared so far, thank you all
 
Don't forget to ask what the outcome of "need more time to investigate" on that sheet you found was.

I get the impression that someone knew something wasn't right and just couldn't be bothered to find out the problem...that gets on my nerves.

Or, someone couldn't be bothered to communicate and get the right person to investigate...
 
The glovebox is a non cd changer standard one. On a cd changer one the airbag switch is between the 2 cubby holes.
The only grills that have Bose on them are the 2 front door ones. If you remove the panel there should be bose stickers on the speakers. The tweeters are branded blaupunkt.
Something doesnt seem to ring true about the car by the looks of it
 
just check the amp easy

it doesn't list bose in the codes. either
 
National sales program Spain?
 
  • Like
Reactions: Artimus
Is this an Audi main dealer ?

I had a massive problem with my previous car which in the end, after 8 months went back to the dealer, but certainly not for the price I paid for it,

I was glad to get rid in the end, shame because it had a solid engine and was a quick car !

My car apparently had its satnav stolen at some point in the previous ownership and damage was done to the passenger door which left glass rattling all around in the door panel and some chips and dents on the door which werent obvious when I bought it ! Certainly didnt come up on the hpi or from Audi history and spec check helpline

Im presuming the previous owner could never resolve it and chopped the car in and then I did the same !

You have a much better chance of rejecting the car now and getting all your money back rather than regretting it later on

Was it a bargain, can they give you something to sweeten the deal now youre having to mess about !
 
Morning guys.

Yes it's from a main dealer and the car was £21k so not an absolute bargain however low miles of 18k was a big reasoning of purchase.
 
Bose amp is behind the driver side panel in the boot. Subwoofer on the passenger side.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Schlaag
Morning guys.

Yes it's from a main dealer and the car was £21k so not an absolute bargain however low miles of 18k was a big reasoning of purchase.
Christ on a bike. I hadn't realized how much Audi charge for a 3/4 year old car. For that money it's got to be spot on. Hopefully the supplying dealer will resolve matters.
 
So much for Audi Approved then....

This sort of thing annoys me, as it makes all Audi dealers look like Gob****es
Just takes one or two crappy dealers to put people off forever....

Hope they sort this out for you.
 
Small update on some research.... I just rang Audi parts in a local town, gave the reg and asked for the Sat Nav part number linked to the car,if I were to replace it.

8P0 035 193 G Audi A3 Europe, MY 2011

I bet my house that this part number on the back of the one in the car at present ends with 192 and does not match the above!
 
Last edited:
Feel for you bro, been there had the t shirt

Just take it back and get them to sort it otherwise you'll be rejecting it

as its not as described, presume you have a copy of the advert/spec sheet etc

(I have a 2011 S3 brochure if you need anything checking in terms of spec)
 
  • Like
Reactions: Schlaag
Feel for you bro, been there had the t shirt

Just take it back and get them to sort it otherwise you'll be rejecting it

as its not as described, presume you have a copy of the advert/spec sheet etc

(I have a 2011 S3 brochure if you need anything checking in terms of spec)

Would appreciate the brochure thank you mate. I'll drop you a PM with my email :)
 
Have you tried ringing the free Audi spec and history check helpline 0800 542 3037

They might know something about your cars history
 
  • Like
Reactions: Schlaag
Great, Just called this second ago, thank you. Darren was very helpful. More ammo logged!

It seems with the car paperwork ( I say that loosely) have been given a generic 'new' audi folder with the car as there is no history / evidence of the previous owner and also no service history book with stamps etc! Just a sheet printed by the audi dealer of the services.

It's had its services according to the checks made on the above helpline, but I should still have a service history book!

Perhaps that was stolen too along with the Nav and the Bose! :nonchalance:
 
Its not really sounding very satisfactory for a car of its value, at £21k and 18k miles

the price would actually be quite reasonable for a main dealer with a years warranty and 12 months mot if it didnt come with these issues

I presume you hpi'd the car before you bought it ?

Ask them to provide a duplicate service book you would then have to get it stamped by the dealers that serviced the car originally. Service books are obsolete now so I wouldnt worry too much as you have a print out. Just very lazy by the dealer !

The black edition definitely comes with 18 inch 5 arm rotor alloys, Bose, black styling pack, matt black fog light surrounds and door handles in body colour, privacy glass from B pillar backwards, piano finish black inlays and door trims.

Is yours definitely a black edition ?

I think you might find the sat nav has been added by the previous owner
 
Last edited:
Further thoughts :

Forgot to say all Audi Main dealers have a 30 day exchange policy, no questions asked, return the car and exchange for something else in group !

If you want your money back

Speak to Audi UK and log a complaint against the dealer, I'd do that anyway, and put a letter together to them explaining the missing Bose, faulty retrofitted satnav and missing service history book and that you were sold the car on the understanding it was a black edition not a standard S3, tell them that you are no longer driving the car and that you want to return the car and get a full refund. Address this to Head of Business at the main dealer (do not deal with the car salesman)

They are not going to put Bose and the correct satnav in the car,

they might offer you compensation but I'd be wanting at least £1500 back plus you'll never be happy with it ! Difficult to sell unless you buy another from them.


http://www.which.co.uk/consumer-rig...car-i-bought-has-a-problem-what-are-my-rights
 
I agree with the above. For the money you paid, that is horrific.

My 2011 BE with 40k on cost me £13,500 with a years full RAC comp warrant...granted the garage didnt even know it was black edition so i got it below book value (never thought id get one over a trader!), but what you paid is pretty high even with the low mileage.

Id be getting a refund and looking elsewhere.
 
Dubjam you were very lucky with yours then when did you buy it ?

Its not high from a main dealer @£21k if it is a black edition S tronic 2011 with only 18k and full service history and 12 months mot

I dont know how many owners its had though, shouldnt be any more than 2 really

I think you will find they have put that car on at a slightly lower price than normal and tried their luck because it has some issues

The engine and gearbox is most probably excellent

Dont forget the 12 month warranty including breakdown cover is worth about a grand
 
couple of months ago, and its 170 Quattro, in Ibis White three door :) 2 owners...

They had it advertised just as a TDI quattro...but it had the BE bits, I checked with insurance, and rightly so, it was a black Edition, paid the deposit on the phone that day :)

Yeah the 12 month full RAC Warranty on a quattro was just short of £800...but all traders by law have to give six months warranty, they dont mention this freely ;)

I did alright, was well chuffed! It is mint as well.

I guess with yours being an S tronic it might command more of a premium. I actually wanted the auto box, but they dont make a tdi quattro with auto which is a shame.
 
I guess with yours being an S tronic it might command more of a premium. I actually wanted the auto box, but they dont make a tdi quattro with auto which is a shame.
That and its an S3!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Artimus and DriverN00B
Hey man its an S3 black edition S tronic

not a TDI quattro 170 manual

nice car but quite different

They do make one now in the TDI with the S tronic its a 184 quattro (not cheap though)

problem is you cant get it in the manual !!!!!!!!! ****** Audi !!!!
 
Hey man its an S3 black edition S tronic

not a TDI quattro 170 manual

nice car but quite different

They do make one now in the TDI with the S tronic its a 184 quattro (not cheap though)

Yeah so ive just been told lol - fail on reading the thread on my part! apologies

Yeah the new ones are out of my ballpark for many four years when they come cheap enough :)
 
Yes it's HPI clear and is definitely a Black Edition car. There is an option code for Nav on the boot ticket and a local audi parts dept has confirmed it was built with a sat nav model 8P0 035 193 G

12 months warranty, MOT and tax but still want it correct. I take it back Friday armed with all the info.

Thing is, we want a black, black edition S3 with the DSG box... so would prefer they make right to be honest.

Thanks for the advice Alex, I agree and will deffo be taking those routes if taking the car back yields no results