Looking to jump into an RS3

[belinko]

Long time Audi owner, but it's time for me to jump into something newer. My 2nd motor in the B5 is done. If I didn't live in SoCal, I would be more inclined to rebuild the car. But due to emissions/CARB it's just that much more of a headache and the reality of the situation is the parts are NLA, which totally sucks for all B5 owners. The only thing to really do with the car is go "full race" (gut and cage) or part it out/sell the car.

When the RS3 was first released in the states, I immediately thought it would be a great replacement for my B5 and thought that I could pick up a used one down the road. I've driven an RS3 on track and it's a great car. Feels and drives like my B5 but with a bit more TQ and HP.

I understand the car market (new or used) is out of whack right now, but it's a little difficult for me to justify paying $60+K for an 18,19,20 car, even with low mileage. I know the 22's are coming out, but there's no way they'll be selling them at MSRP and I'm not going to pay $80+K for an RS3. I really think the true value (not market value) is around $45-50K on the majority of the vehicles listed for sale. It seems like a lot of RS3 owners dumped their cars during covid and sold them off to dealers, who are now trying to make some money on the cars that they bought for $50-55K and are selling them for $55-65K. It is also rare to find a CPO RS3 at Audi dealer these days.

1. How do you think the interior of your car is aging (infotainment, touch points, all the electronic bullshit). Neither of my cars have any tech and I kind of like that.
2. What options would you say are a must have for the RS3? I've always been a fan of BO and the MMI.
3. Pro's and Con's to the specific model years? 18 as burbles and retractable nav? anything else that I'm missing?
4. Stuff to look out for besides, oil pan drip and water pump.
5. Trying to time the market for this purchase, wait a couple of months or just get it over with and buy now?

I'm not really looking to modify this car (at least that's what I'm telling myself today). I have a dedicated "track car" now (997GT3) and the RS3 would be my daily/rainy day "track car" with a back seat. I like to keep my cars for a long time and I think the RS3 could last me at least 10yrs. I've contemplated getting an A4 Allroad, but it would need wheels, suspension and chip at a minimum to make it tolerable. Model 3 dual motor, kind of makes sense, but I don't think I could keep it for 10yrs, I think teslas don't age well and it's a soul-less appliance. M2 or M3 (F80) is kind of interesting, but I've been a VAG guy for so long and no AWD. 2022 VW R, kind of small, kind of boy racer and kind of down on power compared to RS3 or M cars and to get one in SoCal is $55K.

Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated.

[Skunkwerx]

.......

I understand the car market (new or used) is out of whack right now, but it's a little difficult for me to justify paying $60+K for an 18,19,20 car, even with low mileage. I know the 22's are coming out, but there's no way they'll be selling them at MSRP and I'm not going to pay $80+K for an RS3. I really think the true value (not market value) is around $45-50K on the majority of the vehicles listed for sale. It seems like a lot of RS3 owners dumped their cars during covid and sold them off to dealers, who are now trying to make some money on the cars that they bought for $50-55K and are selling them for $55-65K. It is also rare to find a CPO RS3 at Audi dealer these days.

1. How do you think the interior of your car is aging (infotainment, touch points, all the electronic bullshit). Neither of my cars have any tech and I kind of like that.
2018 - Interior holding up. Leather is creasing as it does but not cracked, garaged and ceramic tinted so no visible fading on any surfaces. Infotainment is holding up but showing technology age with need to plug in for Carplay but there is a wireless workaround with CarlinKIT. Alcantera wheel is holding up only because I clean it with foam cleaner and toothbrush occasionally. This may look nasty on resales. Nothing is creaking at this point even the sunroof. The only other major item I had was a faulty direct injector... was a costly job to fix it and just replaced the remaining 4 while it was opened up.

2. What options would you say are a must have for the RS3? I've always been a fan of BO and the MMI.
BO is worth it and screen on 2018s because it can retract. Virtual dash option. I prefer the Dynamic Suspension as opposed to fixed but you're a track guy so I assume you'd go with a new setup anyway.

3. Pro's and Con's to the specific model years? 18 as burbles and retractable nav? anything else that I'm missing?
(From memory.... ) Burbles can be coded back with tunes in all model years. Nav screen as you mentioned does go down unless MMI software was flashed. The antenna on 18's were color matched too? Some early units didn't have brake cooling ducts and terrible versions of rotors but those would have been replaced by now. We are hearing about another emissions related recall (new ecu flash to correct) on 2019+ and the 18 owners are waiting to find out if it affects them... hopefully not.

4. Stuff to look out for besides, oil pan drip and water pump.
Creaking sunroof, bad exhaust valve rattle at cold start.

5. Trying to time the market for this purchase, wait a couple of months or just get it over with and buy now?

I'm not really looking to modify this car (at least that's what I'm telling myself today). I have a dedicated "track car" now (997GT3) and the RS3 would be my daily/rainy day "track car" with a back seat. I like to keep my cars for a long time and I think the RS3 could last me at least 10yrs. I've contemplated getting an A4 Allroad, but it would need wheels, suspension and chip at a minimum to make it tolerable. Model 3 dual motor, kind of makes sense, but I don't think I could keep it for 10yrs, I think teslas don't age well and it's a soul-less appliance. M2 or M3 (F80) is kind of interesting, but I've been a VAG guy for so long and no AWD. 2022 VW R, kind of small, kind of boy racer and kind of down on power compared to RS3 or M cars and to get one in SoCal is $55K.

Regarding your GT3... I think I took a ride in it at Button with you.... if it was you, you DO know that track and drive well! PM me and I'll fill in the blanks.

Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated.

See comments above .

[scottrs4avant]

Not to hijack this thread, but I'm in almost the exact scenario as you, looking for an RS3, same price-point opinion. Also found the same things to be true that you listed so I'm looking for an 18.

However, regarding the B5 parts, what parts are you not able to find? I use FCPEuro, Europa, 034 and GenuineAudiParts as my go to websites.
I've had mine for over 10 years now and just finished a clutch job for it yesterday.

[DanMPower]

I moved from an F80 M3 Competition to the RS3 (my first Audi) and never looked back. The RS3 is one of my favorite cars ever, it just does everything so well and sounds so good doing it. When I was shopping I was looking for 2018 ONLY, my thought process at the time was that I wasn't going to modify it and 2018 had the most aggressive tune from the factory, pops, bangs, and burbles. Also, 2018s allowed you to retract the screen for a smooth dash look when you're not using the infotainment, 2018 had the best mechatronics as well if you decide to mod and go fast. 2018 Standard and Dynamic come with indirect TPMS which allows you to swap wheels and tires easily without having to install or program sensors in every set of wheels. Lastly, 2018s are so far not affected by the newest emissions recall scandal in which dealers are required to reflash your ECU (They will TD1 flag tuned ones) in order to register the car in CA. All things point to 2018 as the year to get.

As far as packages, I HAD to have the Virtual Cockpit, no way would I buy this car with standard gauges, I also had to have black optics, driver assistance, and dynamic package (Sport exhaust, red calipers, magnetic adjustable suspension, and staggered wheels).

[r26372]

I've had my '18 since new and no issues to report outside of some speaker rattle noise when cold out. When I push on speaker cover sounds stops, so I really just need to lubricate the cover and too lazy to do it so far. Outside of that I'd definitely recommend tech package with virtual cockpit, better sound system and navigation. I have adjustable suspension and would recommend that as well. Makes for a smoother ride on road trips.
Black optics looks way better than standard silver trim too. I tuned to stage 1+ and with e85 fuel it's a different car in terms of acceleration. Plus it's higher octane and $2 a gallon cheaper than premium.
I honestly wouldn't own this car if it were stock. If staying stock I'd get a Model 3p.
The tune flag is irreverent for 2018 cars as they are out of warranty anyway.
Regarding prices, there is not a single car in US selling for under $53k. For a pretty loaded car, in black or white color, 30k or so mileage you'll pay at least mid to upper $50's as there are only 40 for sale in the entire US. Basic supply and demand and that's not changing in next year


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[signde]

i think you have already done your due diligence and know what you are getting into. also you have been given good advice in this thread.

i prefer the black optics over alu optics. dynamic with tech package is a must. the red stitching with the RS interior package looks good if you are a fan of red - that’s the only option i didn’t get and regret it.

a 2019 or later is still an option if you are okay getting an ECU tune to get back the burbles and don’t care about the retractable screen. tbh you’ll appreciate the added power anyway, it really opens the car up. if that makes you nervous about the remaining warranty, APR plus is always an option. my car makes over 400whp on that tune.

my sunroof rattles a little bit. i had the water pump replaced. the stock pirellis are straight trash, replace those ASAP. carplay isn’t wireless but you can get a wireless dongle. if you care about homelink you can have it added aftermarket in the headliner. other than that the tech is good enough for me, the car has everything i care about.

[0000 RS5]

Lastly, 2018s are so far not affected by the newest emissions recall scandal in which dealers are required to reflash your ECU (They will TD1 flag tuned ones) in order to register the car in CA.

Just to clarify model year 2017 (handful of cars) and 2018 cars also had an emissions recall, campaign 24FM sent out in June 2020. Whereas I have heard no direct experience with people being forced to be reflashed at a dealer, there was language in the recall that stated it would need to done before the vehicles registration could be renewed.

And to chime in on the OP topic. Do what you want. If you can find a car you like, get it! I love my 2018.


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[Kaliking]

I once owned a b5 A4, so I have had first hand experience with all the electrical issues that car came with, but thus far no issues with RS3, granted car only has 17,000 miles on it, but no issues to report.

The only option I would say that is absolutely a must on the RS3 is the 2.5l turbo engine. I understand you have preferences, but you also prefer a certain price, so if you have the ability to get one for the price point you are looking for but it's missing a few options you were hoping for, then you need to decide what is more important price or options. I find it funny when I read a thread about a guy who wants a fully loaded RS3 and wants it for under $50k. It's often easier to sell to a dealership than private party, and if the dealership happens to be offering more money, then the private party guy can go pound sand.

[redline380]

Regarding prices, there is not a single car in US selling for under $53k.

I mean, this is an outright lie. Do you even care to look before you make claims like this? I watch the market daily and plenty under $53k are available. Higher mileage and some with damage history, yes, but there are definitely cars available under $53k.

[belinko]

I really appreciate the input and feedback to my questions.

Seems like the 2018 would be a nice year to get even though it's already a 4yo car. I think having the Nav screen retractable will help the interior age better. But as others have pointed out the RS3 is all about the glorious 2.5L motor. Doesn't really seem like there are big interior or exterior differences between the three model years.

I'm really itching to get into one, but I don't want to jump the gun too early. Seems like the market for the RS3's might soften a bit in the couple of months. Anyone else think that will happen? I' think once the 22' MY is released the prices of 18,19,20 will need to come down 10-15%. It's crazy how many cars listed for sale have 10-15K miles or less. Also, the vast majority of cars are listed for sale at independent or Audi dealerships, there are hardly any private party listings in my area (500mile range). I'm interested in cars with less than 30K miles. Are there any ECU readout options for launch control counts or mis-shifts/over rev reports that I could get from a dealer? Can you determine if the vehicle has been flagged for a tune, based on VIN? Would you buy from an Audi dealer only or Independent dealer? I'd almost prefer a private party sale. I'm also thinking that a PPI would be in order for any of these cars, prior to purchase.

@skunkwerkx - that was me, your car planted the seed and thanks for the compliment

@scottrs4avant - new interior parts (dash), exterior body parts (windshield cowl, etc.), rigid coolant lines, all kind of stuff NLA, so you need to go through Audi Tradition, which is $$$$. The next stop to get parts is a junk yard or ebay. It might be a little easier in the EU to get some parts, but the reality of the situation is that to restore my car to my standards would be at least $20K. The B5 is not an air cooled porsche or really that special. I'd rather toss that cash into something else at this point.

@DanMpower - those are the options that I need: Virtual cockpit, BO, dynamic, I'm not so sure about driver assistance, I'll need to look that up, but I hate shit beeping at while driving. Even my b5 has all blacked out trim. Also, really interesting that you came from an F80. How much smaller are the back seats in the RS vs M3?

[MXblau]

As somebody who just replaced the water pump and has a dripping oil pan, #4 hit home hard.

[belinko]

^^^ seems like unless you buy from an Audi dealer or Private Party, you won't be able to get full service records.

[o1turbo30v]

@belinko, don’t bet on prices changing that drastically this year, there is zero information on when or if the 23 RS3 will arrive, dealers are taking deposits but no allocations, pricing, or build sheets exist yet, if you find one you want, scoop it up.

[Rod Paine]

@belinko,

@o1turbo30v is correct. Our Audi dealer has offered us $65K for our 2019 RS 3 now with 34,110 miles on it.
Further they have no 'confirmed' info on when a current RS 3 may become available, or its cost!

[belinko]

^^^^ madness

I called an Audi dealer today. They were asking $65K, CPO, 16K miles, I told him I was a buyer at $60K, they almost hung up on me. MSRP on the car was $61K.

[RS3TP]

All the model years of the 8V are awesome. I have a 2018 and I have many friends with 2019, etc. They all have the same power and performance. The 18 has a little more burble but who cares. I say buy the one with the lowest miles and enjoy it. Don't over think it. This cars are tough as nails, and yes I'm pretty sure the dealer can tell you how many launches on the car. As for price, i'm not sure you'll see these cars come down 10 to 15% anytime soon. They have a strong following and are in demand. Here in Canada ... no more RS3's or TTRS coming. They failed to meet emission standards ... grab one before the EV tree huggers get us :)

[Plake]

^^^LOL! Well said.

[DanMPower]

@DanMpower - those are the options that I need: Virtual cockpit, BO, dynamic, I'm not so sure about driver assistance, I'll need to look that up, but I hate shit beeping at while driving. Even my b5 has all blacked out trim. Also, really interesting that you came from an F80. How much smaller are the back seats in the RS vs M3?

Driver assistance is fantastic on road trips and in stop and go traffic, the lane-centering feature really helps on long trips when you start losing some attention span combined with radar cruise it's almost like autopilot, still not as advanced as some of the best out there but still gets the job done.

[Gibbs1020]

^^^^ madness

I called an Audi dealer today. They were asking $65K, CPO, 16K miles, I told him I was a buyer at $60K, they almost hung up on me. MSRP on the car was $61K.

I was offered 62.5k trade on my 2020 w/ 20k miles on it.

I bought the car for 60 in 2019 at that same dealer.

It is not a great time to buy, but with everything fast from VAG being on hold, it's hardly surprising. Base RWD 996.1s are 30k cars all of the sudden.


edit: I have an APR stage 1 with an update that brings back the pre-19 pops/bangs etc. No water pump failure yet, oil pan is holding up.

[belinko]

Thanks for everyone's input and feedback. Unless I can hold off another year, which I'm not sure I can, sounds like I'll be paying close to MSRP for a used RS3.

I guess I could start daily driving this thing.

[chi_marketing]

I love this little RS3. I am looking at getting a new 911 and yikes, the same situation just adds more zeros. I feel your pain. I am very concerned about it being mid-April and no build guide/pricing being released for the "2022" RS3.

[eurojunkjon]

Yeah prices are crazy I just bought an 2018 ara blue with sport exhaust, and carbon ceramics, 24k miles for $61k

[chi_marketing]

Yeah prices are crazy I just bought an 2018 ara blue with sport exhaust, and carbon ceramics, 24k miles for $61k

How sad is it that I'm going to tell you that's a good deal right now...

[signde]

Thanks for everyone's input and feedback. Unless I can hold off another year, which I'm not sure I can, sounds like I'll be paying close to MSRP for a used RS3.

I guess I could start daily driving this thing.

sweet 997 GT3! i also have a carrara white 997.1 turbo.

[b1aZe]

I feel fortunate that I got my ‘18 with 40k miles and carbon ceramics for 53.5 in october

[DarkSammy]

There is no way the price of RS3's are going down any time soon, I am reading feedback that a lot of 2022 buyers are being contacted by their dealership to say that if they want their car in 2023 at all, they will need to go without massage seats and the 360 degree camera. Crazy but true unfortunately...

[RS3TP]

What are massage seats? Is that a new option? Thx

[mtwallace85]

What are massage seats? Is that a new option? Thx

Exactly what it sounds like:

“The massage function includes three different programs that have been developed for targeted relaxation of the lumbar region. These can be set in three intensities. The programs and their intensity are set via the MMI touch display. The button on the lumbar support with integrated direct massage button can be used to switch the massage function on or off. A massage process takes about 10 minutes.

Available massage programs:
Wave
stretch
Knead
Note: can only be ordered in conjunction with front seats, electrically adjustable (or with memory function for driver's seat and exterior mirrors)”

It’s a new option for the facelift car.

[TToysRuS]

Yeah prices are crazy I just bought an 2018 ara blue with sport exhaust, and carbon ceramics, 24k miles for $61k

My 19 TTRS in Nardo with the Dynamic Package and RS Design Red package, used of course with 7k, was $71k about 4 months ago. Prices are staying high now too

[Rod Paine]

My 19 TTRS in Nardo with the Dynamic Package and RS Design Red package, used of course with 7k, was $71k about 4 months ago. Prices are staying high now too

Yes crazy prices! My Audi dealer offered a few bucks more than we paid for it January 2020 when we bought our Nardo Grary 2019 RS 3. We're keeping it of course, now with 34,110 miles on it of which 24,559 miles have been fast country back road runs, 3 days a week as weather permits. Been driving high performance vehicles since 1958 and the Audi RS 3 is a certainly a KEEPER!

[denz50]

I work part time at local Audi dealer in the service drive.We have had 5-6 used RS3’s the last 6 months either trade ins or bought from customers.They were all sold from $61-$66K even with higher miles. Planning to buy & keep my 19 Mythos Black which is coming off lease later this yr especially with a $35K residual! Best Audi of the 10 I have owned!

[Alex D]

Try to find the one with the lowest miles as possible. The technology package was a deal breaker for me as i skipped over any car with the analog gauges. The virtual cockpit really makes the interior more modern in opinion. The entire 2017-2020 run was pretty rock solid with minor differences. The only issues that seem to be common are the water pump and oil pan seal which are pretty minor in the grand scheme. Timing the market is tough feat as i don't see the prices really moving that much as this car is out of production already. If you find one with the packages you want and color, jump on it if it is anywhere near the $60k mark. Anything under $60k with low miles seems to go pretty quick.

[RMode]

I've got both, and work for Audi.

No issues beyond a weaping water pump on our 18. Not all 18s have the retractable screen. Only ones with a build date of ~ Jan-Feb 18 and earlier. IAfter that, backup cameras became mandatory in the US (effective May 1), so the screen is up when the car is on.
Interior wear has been just fine, but we take care of it. It's now at 26k miles though, so not super high.

Market wise, it isn't softening by much anytime soon. It's more a question of availability of worthwhile cars. Many were modded, put back to stock, and traded/sold. They then go owner to owner, auction to auction with some regularity.

[belinko]

@RMode, part of the problem is identifying "clean" cars. Ones that haven't been beaten to shit. If you guys have any specific or obvious things to look for to identify modded vs unmodded, I'd be interested to know. I'm always interested in number of owners, etc. The pretty obvious ones are when they leave the charge pipes on or midpipes and wheels, but its not always the case.

Anyways, I'm still looking.

[lemonvr6]

I wouldn’t pass on a car I want over 5k

[Rod Paine]

I am approached 2-3 times a month at the Sunoco station where we fuel-up our 2019 Audi RS 3 and asked if I'd be interested in selling our Nardo Gray Audi now at 35,510 miles! NOPE is always my answer, along with my comments as to why the Audi is not for sale.

[RMode]

@RMode, part of the problem is identifying "clean" cars. Ones that haven't been beaten to shit. If you guys have any specific or obvious things to look for to identify modded vs unmodded, I'd be interested to know. I'm always interested in number of owners, etc. The pretty obvious ones are when they leave the charge pipes on or midpipes and wheels, but its not always the case.

Anyways, I'm still looking.

Assume they’ve all been modded, and pay someone to do a PPI to gauge the mechanicals.