What year to avoid purchasing?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 6,800
Likes: 2,653
From: Down south in Dixie
I wouldn't say there is any particular year to avoid, it's more like what options to avoid. The '14s had the six speed auto trans that seem to be bulletproof. The '15s and up have the A8 which many have had (and continue to have ) problems with-myself included. To get the front cameras, you will need the 2LT or 3LT level interior. The 3LT can have problems with the leather dashboard coming up around the defroster vent (mine did) and other problems. Extended warranties won't pay for trim problems.
There are many posts about those problems, even a "sticky" about the A8s.
There are many posts about those problems, even a "sticky" about the A8s.
A very good simple answer here. I would say if you are looking at a 15 - early 1'7 with the A8 do your due diligence to make sure it hasn't had or doesn't have the shuddering and Torque converter problems. These reasons helped push me into a earlier trade in of my '16 A8 than I wanted. I will say that so far (which hasn't been but 495 miles) my new '19 A8 has been great right out of the box. I couldn't say that about my '16. I did get the GM recommended fluid flush on the '16 that did help, but I just couldn't get it out of my mind so I went ahead and did the trade. Good luck on your search. There are a lot of great pre-owned garage queens out there.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 2,012
Likes: 955
From: Central Commiefornia
As posted, year model "issues" are rare, with most being the nagging problems with the A8 and TC, so other than deciding to get a 6 speed auto, the choice comes down to equipment and options...
Buy a 7MT and you have no worries!
Buy a 7MT and you have no worries!
