This is why German vehicles are so expensive to maintain and repair - DIY vs Dealership Costs
Welcome to Carsntoys, the ultimate DIY channel dedicated to maintaining and repairing your vehicle at home. Today we're going over why it's so expensive to own, maintain and repair a modern German vehicle. In this video we will compare costs of DIY repair vs what the local dealership charges. Although not impossible, working on a modern German vehicle at home is quite challenging. First, there is very little working room. Second, you need dealer software. Fortunately, the software is quite easy to use but it's a necessity for basic things, such as battery replacement (for battery coding) and replacing rear brake pads (to disengage the electronic hand brake). We hope this is helpful and thanks for watching!
►►► Audi S4 Repair Playlist:
Chapters:
0:00 - Intro why German cars are expensive
0:40 - Audi, BMW and Mercedes Benz DIY
1:25 - Plastic belly pans and pinch welds
4:00 - Plastic parts and no dip sticks
6:00 - Battery failure = car failure
7:20 - Dealer software for basic maintenance
9:05 - Fuel tank malfunction
11:30 - Is it worth buying a German car?
13:30 - Dealership costs
Some crazy things I learned while owning an Audi S4.
1. Battery coding. After battery replacement, you must tell the car's computer there is a new battery installed. Otherwise, damage may occur to the new battery and the vehicle's alternator.
2. Rear brake pads require dealer software. Because many modern vehicles use an electronic brake versus a traditional hand brake, you first have to tell the vehicle's computer "hey, back off because I'm replacing the brake pads". It's just the way it is.
3. Very, very little working room. Some vehicles require an engine out for starter replacement. On this B8 S4, the front bumper must be removed and then the cowl placed in to service position for simple DIY maintenance, such as drive belts replacement. Nutty.
4. Plastic galore. A lot of plastic in the engine bay. Plastic gets quite brittle over time, especially when it goes over numerous heat cycles. Valve covers, PCV valves, breather tubes, coolant lines, radiator hoses - don't be shocked if you find plastic galore in the engine bay of your vehicle.
5. No dip stick. Nope, not there. Use the vehicle's infotainment system for oil level checking. Not good.
Note:
Any attempt to repair automotive parts and/or systems carries risk of personal injury. Always adhere and follow safe practices when working on vehicles. Such as, safety glasses, jack stands, no loose clothing, etc. No guarantee or warranty is implied. Use the information in this video at your own risk. Carsntoys is a member of the Amazon Influencer Program.
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