Ask an expert

We are looking to buy a used Euro Cabriolet but have heard some negative comments about reliability & servicing.

Can you give general comment on the following scuttlebutt;

* Audi A4 2.4V6 - that gearbox problems are common.
* Saab 2.0 non turbo - that there are limited servicing agents and repairs are particularly expensive.
* Mercedes CLK - that they have a lot of niggly problems compared to other makes.

Linda

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 28 September 2009

Yes all of these vehicles have the potential to drain your bank balance and you certainly would not be purchasing with the hope of on-selling at some time in the future and recovering any repair costs.

If the Audi is fitted with a CVT (Constant Variable Transmission) then be warned, they are very expensive to repair and can give problems. I have heard of bills upwards of $8,000. Any electrical problems or issues with the air-conditioning can also be very expensive to repair.

Saab is very high risk simply because they become orphans. The brand is suffering from negative press at the moment regarding its global future and in NZ they are a very minor player in the market. Lack of technical knowledge on the brand outside the main centres is also a negative factor.

Mercedes can be expensive to repair and yes niggly problems are not unusual. You need to find mechanics who really know these vehicles, they are out there but repairs don't come cheap. There have also been electrical issues with Mercedes imported out of Singapore. Stories about the wiring looms breaking down due to the humidity in Singapore are not unusual and can be almost impossible to detect prior to purchase.

Linda, they are all high risk for different reasons and you should be very careful if you don't want to own a vehicle which potentially can have a negative impact on your finances. Retractable roofs are another area where repair costs can potentially esculate.

Mechanical warranty insurance is an option but most underwriters will ask for higher premiums because of the risks they are exposed to, and there is a possibility not every problem would be covered. Often they have an 'out' called pre-existing condition which means the problem was deemed to be present at time of sale and therefore not covered.