2019 Audi A8 3.0L Diesel · GJ69 FUU

The 3.0-litre V6 diesel A8 typically returns 38–45 mpg on a mixed cycle, depending on wheel size and driving style — reasonable for a luxury saloon of this size, but the higher-than-average mileage on this example means fuel alone will likely cost £2,400–£2,800 per year at current diesel prices. Road tax sits in a higher band for vehicles over £40,000 list price, and as a post-April 2017 Euro 6 diesel it is not subject to the diesel supplement beyond year one, but the standard rate still applies.

Insurance for an A8 in this spec typically falls into groups 46–50, so premiums of £1,000–£1,600 per year are realistic for a typical buyer. Servicing and maintenance at a specialist rather than a main dealer can keep costs manageable, but the 91,426-mile odometer reading means items like timing belt (if due on schedule), air suspension components, and AdBlue system servicing are approaching or have reached replacement intervals. Overall, expect £2,500–£3,500 per year in total running costs for this vehicle in its current state.

Start with a cold start: with the ignition on, verify the airbag/SRS warning lamp extinguishes promptly and does not flash or stay lit. If it does, walk away or negotiate the cost of repair heavily. The 2025 failure record explicitly cites the supplementary restraint system warning lamp, so any dealer claiming the issue has been 'reset' without proper repair should be treated with caution. A VCDS or OBD-eleven diagnostic scan is essential to read and clear the fault memory.

Inspect the brake discs visually through the wheels — look for deep scoring, a raised lip on the edge, or visible rust pitting. Given the same advisories appeared on both the 2024 and 2025 tests, the discs have likely not been replaced and may be due. Check the front brake pipes along their run for corrosion, secure clipping, and any signs of previous repair or replacement. Also examine both front tyres and the offside rear for wear pattern; uneven wear could indicate tracking or suspension geometry issues.

Given the model-level data flags suspension arms and headlamps as common A8 failure points, jack the car and check the front lower control arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and the adaptive air suspension struts for any seepage or knocking. Test all four electric windows, the soft-close doors, the matrix LED headlights, and the MMI infotainment system for faults — electrical gremlins are a known cost area on A8s of this generation.