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ОР ОР! Audi A3 2.0 TDI vs. BMW F30 N20: real owners’ experience, maintenance costs, and a direct comparison.

Hello to all readers and car enthusiasts! In this blog, our team of auto enthusiasts decided to step aside from the usual reviews and prepared a true comparison test drive of two models highly popular among Ukrainians — the Audi A3 2.0 TDI and the BMW F30 N20. Both cars have long proven themselves on Ukrainian roads, so it’s time to see how they perform in everyday use, what their maintenance costs are, and whether the stereotype about the "immortal Audi" and "capricious BMW" really holds up.

The main character of this story is Dmytro, who bought his Audi A3 two years ago. The price at purchase was $21,500, with a mileage of 109,000 km.

Audi A3 2.0 TDI: First steps after purchase

The car was bought via a classic, verified scheme: official origin, no accidents, single owner, serviced only at the dealer, minimal mileage. On the very next day, according to Dmytro’s standard routine, the car was sent to a service center.

It immediately turned out that the brake discs and pads all around needed replacement, the calipers required maintenance, and the suspension had to be checked. Then came the timing belt, engine oil, transmission oil, and fuel filter replacement, along with a full underbody inspection.

The maintenance expenses totaled around $2,500. According to Dmytro, for an Audi A3 2.0 TDI, this is standard practice for a first service after a second-hand purchase.

Gearbox issues and parts replacement

At 62,000 km, the DSG DQ250 gearbox started acting up. Fortunately, the repair was done under warranty. A glow plug was also replaced. Dmytro noted that while the gearbox shifts quickly, it’s still fussier compared to the 8-speed ZF in BMW.

A year later, another issue arose — the dual-mass flywheel failed. Along with seal replacements, an oil pump belt, seals, and an oil pan swap, this cost Dmytro another $1,500.

BMW F30 N20: Ownership experience

The BMW F30 with the N20 petrol engine is a typical "American" in a fairly basic configuration. Over 150,000 km, only the brake discs and pads were replaced, although it’s recommended to replace the timing chain every 100,000 km. Dmytro stressed that the chain is probably lying in the oil pan by now, but the owner still hasn't gotten around to replacing it.

However, the ZF gearbox is a true legend. An Odessa customer once had a case where, after switching to emergency mode, only the oil pan and oil were replaced, and after a month the gearbox came back to life and shifted normally again. Dmytro confirmed that ZF boxes are nearly "indestructible" and faithfully serve even under rough use.

Configurations: what do you get for your money

The Audi A3 offers a base trim but pleases with a panoramic roof, air conditioning, leather interior, rearview camera, and parking sensors.

The BMW, however, is a stripped-down version with no panoramic roof, no keyless entry, no front parking sensors — but it does have dual-zone climate control.

The Audi’s resale value holds up better, but it costs $1,500–$2,000 more at purchase than a similar BMW.

Conclusion: Is it worth overpaying for an Audi?

In Dmytro’s opinion, the Audi is more expensive to buy and maintain, though it offers slightly better dynamics thanks to the DSG.

BMW is cheaper to purchase, but requires attention to the timing chain and gearbox oil. The ZF gearbox, however, is much more reliable.

Both cars have their "quirks" and neither is problem-free. The moral of the story — any car can break down, regardless of the brand, country of manufacture, or reputation. The choice comes down to personal preferences and budget.

And for those who’ve already chosen, or are planning to buy an Audi, BMW, or any other brand — we now have a multi-brand service station. You don’t have to own a BMW to drop by for diagnostics, maintenance, or repairs — all cars are welcome. Convenient location, a large shopping center nearby, and a spacious service center with specialists who understand more than just Bimmers.

If you, your friends, or acquaintances need car service — feel free to reach out. Top location and premium service approach for every customer guaranteed.

Check out the full video on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if0QhGkzUec Looking for a BMW in Ukraine? Interested in importing one from the USA? Message us on Telegram:

• BMW Car Selection: https://t.me/autopodbor_garage_racer

• BMW Import from USA: https://t.me/prigon_bmw_usa_garage_racer