BMW 3‑Series vs Audi A6: Which Has Lower Maintenance Costs After 5 Years?

You’ve finally reached that stage where a pre-owned German sedan makes sense not just as a status upgrade, but as a serious daily ride. And the two names topping most shortlists? The BMW 3-Series and the Audi A6.

Both cars have proven their mettle in India. One is a spirited driver’s sedan with rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and the other is a tech-laden luxury cruiser that glides through traffic like it owns the road. But as is the case with most luxury cars, the car’s buying cost is just the beginning. The real test of affordability starts after the third service bill shows up.

So, if you’re wondering which car is kinder to your wallet after 5 years of ownership, this deep dive into used BMW 3-Series vs used Audi A6 maintenance costs will give you the clarity you need.

5-Year Maintenance Cost: BMW 3-Series vs Audi A6

German cars don’t age quietly like Marutis or Hyundais unless they are pampered. In India, the actual cost of ownership is determined by the quality of maintenance of the car, particularly during the 3-6 year period during which most of the extended warranties are over and the wear and tear starts to set in.

For better understanding, let us go over the most common categories of used BMW 3-Series vs used Audi A6 maintenance costs using the data of BMW India, Audi India, and the experience of real owners on Team-BHP, Reddit India Autos, and BMW/Audi owner WhatsApp communities.

Important: Do note that these prices are indicative estimates and may vary depending on the place and condition of the car. 

Routine Service Costs (Authorised Dealers)

BMW’s BSI+ package helps reduce early costs even further if purchased with the car. Audi’s service plans are less flexible and repairs (outside of oil+filters) begin racking up around the 4th year of ownership.

Suspension & Steering Components

Audi’s air-suspension-equipped variants (mostly in C8 A6) add complexity and cost. Even non-air suspension trims can get pricey when bush kits or linkages need replacement.

Brakes & Tyres

Run-flat tyres on older BMWs may wear unevenly if pressure isn't maintained. The A6, especially in 19-inch variants, is more prone to tyre bulge and rapid shoulder wear due to softer sidewalls.

Electronics & Infotainment Repairs

MMI glitches in the A6 (especially 2015–2018) are more frequent than iDrive failures in the BMW 3. Faulty parking sensors or reverse cameras are common on both by year 4.

Transmission & Fluids

Skipping transmission oil changes is one of the biggest long-term killers in both cars. It’s also the most commonly ignored service in used German cars in India.

Estimated 5-Year Ownership Cost Summary

Here is a general estimation of how much you could probably be spending when we compare used BMW 3-Series vs used Audi A6 maintenance costs: 

If you’re planning to keep the car for 4–6 years, the used BMW 3-Series maintenance cost comes out lower on average, especially if you pick a post-2017 F30 320d or early G20 330i.

Looking for lower ownership stress between the used BMW 3-Series vs used Audi A6 maintenance cost? Buy a used BMW 3-Series with a BSI service plan or less than 40,000 km on the odometer. Not only will you not have to pay hefty early repair costs, but you can get parts such as brake pads or filters cheaper through independent garages, which is a huge win in the long term. You can also explore inspected and under-warranty used BMW cars at CARS24.

Common Issues to Watch For After 3 Years

Even the most well-maintained German sedans show signs of aging after a few years. That is what you can expect when comparing ownership issues in a used BMW 3-Series vs used Audi A6.

BMW 3-Series (F30 / G20)

• Oil leaks from the valve cover or oil filter housing, especially on 320d units.
• Timing chain rattle in early F30 320d models, usually fixable with preventive replacements. 
• Steering column noises, more common in earlier-gen F30s. 
• Battery drain when idle for extended periods, especially if the AGM battery isn’t replaced on time.

Post-2017 320d / 330i models fixed many of these early issues. The G20 generation offers noticeably better cabin insulation and suspension tuning.

Audi A6 (C7 / C8)

• MMI freeze or screen blackouts, commonly seen in 2015–2018 TDI models.
• AC vent actuator failures, leading to uneven airflow distribution. 
• Air suspension sag in C8 variants, expensive to replace (₹1.3–1.7 lakh per strut). 
• Water ingress issues in tail lamps and the boot area, as reported on Reddit and BHP. 
• Fuel pump relay problems causing hard starts in some 45 TFSI variants.

Avoid A6s without full service documentation. Always ask for the VCDS scan logs or diagnostic records if buying from a third-party seller.

Best Maintenance Practices (For Lower Long-Term Cost)

If you want to stay ahead of those expensive surprises, these practices are non-negotiable:

• Stick to yearly transmission oil changes, even if the service book says otherwise
• Use only genuine fluids and filters, as OEM-spec oils matter more than the brand itself. 
• Service brakes, coolant, and AC systems at recommended intervals. 
• Join owner forums like BMW India Owners or Audi A6 Club India, as peer advice here can save you lakhs. 
• Use reputed luxury-specialist independent garages in your city.

Which Holds Resale Better in 2025?

In terms of resale value, the BMW 3-Series generally edges out the Audi A6. Why?

• The 3-Series has a stronger enthusiast and younger buyer audience.
• More availability of parts along with local repair support boosts buyer confidence. 
• Audi’s older diesel units are harder to shift post-BS6 due to stricter emissions scrutiny.

In metro markets like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Bengaluru, a 5-year-old 3-Series can still fetch ₹18–₹25 lakhs, while an equivalent A6 often hovers around ₹14–₹22 lakhs, depending on trim and odometer count.

If you plan on reselling the car later, lean towards BMW, especially if you're moving from a used BMW X1 or 1-Series and want to stay loyal to the brand.

Summary: What Should You Choose Based on Maintenance?

If lower maintenance costs, easier part availability and better resale value are more important to you, the used BMW 3-Series is the better choice.

If your priority is a soft ride, more interior space and more in-cabin tech over lowest running costs, the used Audi car can make sense, but be prepared to pay more for repairs after the 3rd year of ownership.

So let’s break used BMW 3-Series vs used Audi A6 maintenance costs one last time:

The used BMW 3-Series maintenance cost is lower overall and that gives it the edge if you’re looking to enjoy a German luxury experience without worrying every time the service light comes on.