[Sbk__Audiophile]

Originally Posted by chair

I explored a few options, but it was clear early on that I wanted to keep the car as OEM as possible without affecting my extended warranty. The only real speaker option was the Focal Inside solution. However, the DSP offered some room to play, which made a huge difference.

Superb Audio upgrade, brother. Appreciate the build.

Goldhorn is very new to me. I've seen only Indonesian builds with this and heard great things about it.

Wishing you a great time with the Audio. I'm interested in the speaker part. Apart from Focal what options are there? I've seen a few Steg and Morel BMW replacements. Recently came across ESX Audio with plug and play. Any opinion on those?

[MileCruncher]

Originally Posted by chair

Update: It's been a long, eventful journey, from my first car I bought myself in 2009 to the newest garage addition in 2025.

Man what an impressive journey! But I see that you need a new excitement every 2 years Keep it up!

Also I see your moved from Japs to Europeans in the beginning itself and haven't moved back. I always tell folks that Japs and Europeans are two separate camps. You can only be in one of them!

I remained in the VW-Skoda fold (which had been good to me with the Superb) and acquired a second-hand 2020 Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI Highline.

I too drive a Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI Highline and bought as pre-owned as well. And very hard to upgrade from given the trim and equipment that the car comes with.

May be god-willing, I too will upgrade to a 7 Series !

[chair]

Originally Posted by Sbk__Audiophile

Goldhorn is very new to me . Ive seen only Indonesian builds with this and heard great things about it.

Wishing you a great time with the Audio. Im interested in the speaker part. Apart from Focal which options are there?
Ive seen a few Steg and Morel BMW BMW replacements. Recently came across ESX Audio with plug and play also. Any opinion on those?

Yeah, Goldhorn is all new to me as well. Ramie recommended this to me at SoundFactor Pro, and after I had done a few hours of research, I saw what he meant. If I hadn't planned any further extensions to the setup, I might have just bit the bullet and go with the Match UP10 from Audiotec Fischer. However, the additional capabilities and future expansion options compelled me to choose Goldhorns DSPA. Also, a Filipino friend used the Goldhorn amp in his F12 and couldn't say enough good things.

On the speakers front, I considered Focal the primary option because of the OEM fit and my past and ongoing experiences with the Focal & Naim product range.

That said, I was considering the K2 Power range, but given the prices and relative benefit, I chose to stick with the above selection.

I would have liked to consider the Audison Prima brand; much like Focal, they have OEM integration options. •

These were the ones I’d researched
1. Focal Inside
Best balance of quality, integration, and brand trust
The BMW-specific range is extensive and across levels of good, better, best
Premium pricing with good availability in India

2. Audison Prima
Very refined – strong midrange presence, good detail
Slightly lean in bass unless paired with a sub
Similar in price to Focal, but tougher availability

3. Morel IP
Audiophile-grade — natural, smooth, no listening fatigue
Expensive and not always available
Limited model compatibility compared to Focal or Audison

4. Bavsound
Reviews say good things, bright, and more energetic
Effortless DIY fitting
More suited to casual listeners — not quite as refined as Focal or Audison
Import-only options and not worth the price

5. PUZU Audio
Great pricing and decent performance
True plug-and-play

I’ve also seen a few options from Rockford Fosgate and Eton. But honestly, I invested my time deciding between Focal and Audison.

[Sbk__Audiophile]

Originally Posted by chair

Yeah, Goldhorn is all new to me as well. Ramie recommended this to me at SoundFactor Pro, and after I had done a few hours of research, I saw what he meant. If I hadn't planned any further extensions to the setup, I might have just bit the bullet and go with the Match UP10 from Audiotec Fischer. However, the additional capabilities and future expansion options compelled me to choose Goldhorns DSPA. Also, a Filipino friend used the Goldhorn amp in his F12 and couldn't say enough good things.

On the speakers front, I considered Focal the primary option because of the OEM fit and my past and ongoing experiences with the Focal & Naim product range.

That said, I was considering the K2 Power range, but given the prices and relative benefit, I chose to stick with the above selection.


I’ve also seen a few options from Rockford Fosgate and Eton. But honestly, I invested my time deciding between Focal and Audison.

Superb. Excellent choice.

Wish you much miles with more smiles with the added audio.

Cheers

[chair]

Originally Posted by MileCruncher

I too drive a Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI Highline and bought as pre-owned as well. And very hard to upgrade from given the trim and equipment that the car comes with.

May be god-willing, I too will upgrade to a 7 Series !

Thank you so much; you’re right about the Passat; after its untimely write-off, I’ve been facing this conundrum of what to replace it with. And honestly, nothing did justice. Enjoy your car. I miss it so much. There’s joy in both German and Japanese cars. But you’re right about the camp I am in. Though I must admit, I am smitten with Tata's design work, so I'm excited to see where they go and if they can get over their build-quality demons.

I count myself lucky and a little impulsive. Driving is a vice, and a nice car puts a smile on my face at the end of the day.

Enjoy your journey - wherever it takes you.

[DustyWanderer]

I have a few questions, buddy. How do you go about buying a used luxury car, and what safety measures are in place?

[chair]

Originally Posted by DustyWanderer

I have a few questions, buddy. How do you go about buying a used luxury car, and what safety measures are in place?

That’s a great question — and one that deserves a thoughtful answer.

Some of the threads on Team-BHP have been instrumental in refining my own theories on this subject, and I strongly recommend reading through them. You’ll find them linked at the end of this post.

Over the years, I’ve bought (and helped others buy) a few used luxury cars. My approach is methodical. The goal is simple: enjoy the vehicle without losing sleep. Here’s how I go about it:

1. I only buy cars with known history.
Ideally, I either know the owner or have some visibility into how the car’s been used. If that’s not possible, I ensure there’s a complete and verifiable service record — not just stamps, but actual invoices, VIN history, and insurance claim records. Anything less is a red flag.


2. Warranty is non-negotiable.
The car must either be under factory warranty or eligible for a reliable extended warranty.

If the manufacturer doesn’t offer one, I get a quote from Edel Assurance. They specialise in extended warranties for luxury cars and are one of the few players in India who will underwrite cars even outside the standard window, provided their inspection is clear.
They work with authorised service centres, and the coverage is surprisingly comprehensive. It’s an extra upfront cost, but the peace of mind is worth every rupee.


3. I always get the car checked at an authorised service centre.
Not at a friendly neighbourhood garage. Not at a multi-brand workshop.

Only the brand-authorised ASC — they run a complete diagnostic, scan all systems, and check for wear markers, error codes, and software status. This alone has saved me from buying a lemon more than once.


4. I’m cautious about very low-mileage cars.
There are two reasons:

• One, odometer tampering — especially with digital clusters, is shockingly easy.
• Two, cars that sit unused tend to develop issues. Seals dry up, batteries die, fluids go stale, and electronics misbehave.

A well-run 25,000 km car is often healthier than a garage queen with 5,000 km.


5. I avoid deals that are too good to be true.
Because they usually are.

If a ₹90 lakh car is listed for ₹45 lakh, there’s always a reason — and it’s rarely good. Accident damage, flood history, pending transmission work, fake paint jobs — I’d rather pay fair money for a clean car than chase a bargain that becomes a money pit.


6. Paperwork matters.

• One- or two-owner cars only.
• RC details must match the chassis and engine numbers. And check for RC revisions.
• Check for insurance gaps, accident history, and unapproved modifications.
• If possible, speak to the previous owner — their tone and confidence often tell you more than any listing.

7. I buy cars I want to live with — not flip.
I don’t buy cars to resell. I buy them to own, drive, and enjoy. That mindset filters out the most risky or impulsive decisions.


8. I prefer cars under 4 years old.
This gives me another 4–6 years of usable life with the car — and still leaves some room on the resale timeline, should I ever want to move on. The depreciation curve flattens out a bit after 3 years, so I feel like I get the best of both worlds.


9. I prefer buying directly from brand-certified used car programmes.
This isn’t always possible, but I take it when it is.
Certified pre-owned programs like:
- BMW Premium Selection
- Mercedes-Benz Certified
- Audi Approved Plus

They offer inspected, often refurbished cars backed by a brand warranty or service plan.

I’ve helped my dad buy an 11-month-old Audi A6 (driven just 6,000 km) for under ₹52 lakh. A few years ago, I also helped my father-in-law buy a Mercedes-Benz CLA from the certified program—it was a smooth process with no drama.


10. I don’t buy with FOMO.
It’s easy to get swept up when a car looks like a great deal — especially in a tight market. But I’ve learned not to rush. If there’s one car today, there’ll be another one tomorrow.

I’d rather wait for the right colour, the proper interior trim, and the one that actually excites me. It has to feel right — not just look good on paper.

That said, when I see the one I want, I pull the trigger. There’s no overthinking at that point. I know what I’m looking for, and I don't waste time when the checklist lines up.


Also worth thinking about:

• Budget 10–15% extra for preventive maintenance after purchase.
• Ensure the car comes with both keys, toolkits, manuals, and service records.
• Avoid vehicles with unexplained service gaps — they usually point to more significant issues.
• Avoid vehicles that have been heavily modded or chipped.

If you’re looking at something specific and want to sanity-check it, happy to help where I can.

There’s no such thing as a risk-free used luxury car — but with the right due diligence, you can absolutely minimise risk and maximise joy.

Team-BHP threads worth reading:
- https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/india...solutions.html
- https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/shift...een-there.html (Luxury Car Dreams | Advice for aspiring owners, from those who've been there!)
- https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/shift...ml#post5923269 (Luxury Car Dreams | Advice for aspiring owners, from those who've been there!)
- https://www.team-bhp.com/news/idiots...rtinent-points
- https://www.team-bhp.com/advice/logi...-old-used-cars

[DustyWanderer]

Thank you very much for sharing your valuable insights on buying a used luxury car. I have always dreamt of owning an entry-level luxury sedan like Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, or even BMW 1 Series. However, I have been hesitant to take the plunge because many of my car enthusiast friends have shared some rather daunting stories about high maintenance costs, expensive repairs, yearly service charges, and wear and tear on parts like clutch and gearbox.

In your opinion, which entry-level luxury sedan offers a good balance between performance and lower maintenance costs? I am currently leaning towards the Audi A4.

[Fuel Of Satan]

Originally Posted by DustyWanderer

Thank you very much for sharing your valuable insights on buying a used luxury car. I have always dreamt of owning an entry-level luxury sedan like Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, or even BMW 1 Series. However, I have been hesitant to take the plunge because many of my car enthusiast friends have shared some rather daunting stories about high maintenance costs, expensive repairs, yearly service charges, and wear and tear on parts like clutch and gearbox.

In your opinion, which entry-level luxury sedan offers a good balance between performance and lower maintenance costs? I am currently leaning towards the Audi A4.

Hey DustyWanderer,
I believe I can offer my two cents on the topic - our family owns a 13-year old Audi Q3 that has clocked nearly 150,000km to date. Based on my experience, I would say Audi is relatively a safer (and cheaper) bet among the entry-level luxury options. Models such as the A4 and Q3 share quite a lot under the skin with cars from VAG, such as the Passat, Octavia, Jetta, and Superb. The parts bin keeps the costs in check.

Annual maintenance at the dealership (at Audi of Coimbatore, professional and genuine chaps) typically runs between 25,000 to 30,000. If you opt for an independent garage, you can shave off 5,000 or so.

That said, spares are still expensive by general metrics - but in my experience, they are more affordable than those for equivalent Bimmers and Benzes. However, it hasn't been all sunshine and rainbows for us. Recently, we've faced some major transmission failures with the Q3, one of which required a complete replacement of the DSG unit. That repair alone cost as much as a brand new sub-4m car

Buying a used luxury car must strictly be kept as "head over heart" (ironic, I know) decision. Do thorough homework and and religiously follow the excellent checklist shared above. Even with all precautions, maintenance costs will make a sizeable annual dent on your wallet. We never really expected the DSG to fail on us, especially since we worship our automobiles and never cheap out on maintenance (our 18 year old prancing horse of a Baleno is a living testament to that). But hey, I guess that's part and parcel of owning a luxury car - expect the unexpected.

Good luck with your search! Enjoy the process and take your own sweet time to evaluate offers. It is always exciting to get your hands on your dream car. Cheers!

[adityaNview]

Originally Posted by chair

7. I buy cars I want to live with — not flip.
I don’t buy cars to resell. I buy them to own, drive, and enjoy.

This is so true. I had always had people in my immediate family choose cars based on resale value. Maybe that’s a reason we have always been stuck with Toyota and Maruti.
Also because they are easy to flip.
However the true joy is not in flipping or having the freedom to flip, it is in enjoying the car for what it is.
Thank you!

[1.2GT3GT]

Originally Posted by Fuel Of Satan

…our family owns a 13-year old Audi Q3 that has clocked nearly 150,000km to date.

Recently, we've faced some major transmission failures with the Q3, one of which required a complete replacement of the DSG unit. That repair alone cost as much as a brand new sub-4m car

We never really expected the DSG to fail on us, especially since we worship our automobiles and never cheap out on maintenance…

Do you recall whether the DSG fluid and any related parts such as oil pan filter and oil pan gasket were changed around the 60000 kms to 70000 kms mark?

Was the same service repeated again around the 120000 kms to 140000 kms mark?

[chair]

Originally Posted by DustyWanderer

In your opinion, which entry-level luxury sedan offers a good balance between performance and lower maintenance costs? I am currently leaning towards the Audi A4.

I mirror Fuel of Satans opinion here.

Got it. Here’s a more conversational version of your response — natural, fluid, and still informative without feeling like a checklist:



Hey @DustyWanderer — I think that’s a very valid hesitation, and to be honest, something most of us feel before jumping into the German car space. The fear of unexpected costs is real — but it’s also manageable if you go about it right.

Now, about the A4 — I genuinely think it’s underrated. Audi doesn’t always get the credit it deserves in this segment. Their cars are beautifully built and incredibly refined, and honestly, for most people, the fact that they’re front-wheel drive really isn’t a dealbreaker. Unless you’re carving corners every weekend, it won’t matter. What does matter is that the cabin quality is top-notch, the design is clean and timeless, and it drives beautifully in day-to-day use.

I find Audis to be a bit undervalued in the used market — and that’s a good thing for buyers. A well-kept, 3-year-old A4 can usually be had for ₹32–35 lakh in Mumbai. Compare that with a similar vintage BMW 3 Series at around ₹40 lahks or a C-Class that’ll probably be closer to ₹45 lahks. All three are great cars, but the A4 often gives you the best value per rupee — especially if you plan to hold on to it for a few years.

And yes, maintenance is a factor — but it’s not as scary as people make it out to be. A routine annual service at an Audi dealer usually costs between ₹25–30k, and if you’re out of warranty, several good independent garages can shave that down by a bit without compromising on quality. That said, unexpected repairs are always a risk — which is why I always recommend getting the extended warranty. Audi offers an extension if the car is under four years old. If not, Edel Assurance is a great option — they’ll cover most major components if the vehicle passes their inspection.

Also, if you’re still testing the waters with German cars, consider looking at a lightly-used Skoda Superb or a VW Passat, too (if you can find one). The Superb, in particular, is an outstanding car — massive space, that solid Euro feel, and a 2.0 TSI engine that genuinely delivers. Maintenance is far more predictable and gives you a real taste of the German experience without the premium badge tax.

So yes — go into it with your eyes open, budget for some risk, but don’t be afraid. These cars are built to be driven and enjoyed. And when you find the right one — with the spec you like, in a colour that excites you — just pull the trigger. Life’s too short to be stuck in “what if.”

Happy to help if you’re shortlisting something — just shout, the community is always here to help.

[Youcanburn]

Originally Posted by chair

On the speakers front, I considered Focal the primary option because of the OEM fit and my past and ongoing experiences with the Focal & Naim product range.

Great upgrade. Very similar speaker setup required for many BMWs. For the benefit for all BMW owners sitting on the fence, would you mind sharing the costing of the focal speaker setup.
Appreciate your help!

[chair]

Originally Posted by Youcanburn

Great upgrade. Very similar speaker setup required for many BMWs. For the benefit for all BMW owners sitting on the fence, would you mind sharing the costing of the focal speaker setup.
Appreciate your help!

Thanks, @Youcanburn — and you’re absolutely right. This setup (or a version of it) would work beautifully across many BMWs with the Harman system, especially if you’re looking for clarity, depth, and a proper soundstage without losing OEM integration.

Here’s a full breakdown of the cost of the setup I chose. I hope this helps anyone who is still deciding.

Audio Upgrade – Full Focal + DSP Build
Speakers:

• Front Stage: Focal IS BMW 100KL – ₹86,400 (pair)
• Centre Channel: Focal ICC BMW 100 – ₹26,800 (single)
• Rear Stage (Doors): Focal IS BMW 100KL – ₹86,400 (pair)
• Rear Tray: Focal IS BMW 100K – ₹44,650 (pair)
• Underseat Subs: Focal ISUB BMW 2 (2-ohm) – ₹71,500 (2 pieces)

DSP + Amp:

• Goldhorn DSPA1012Plus – ₹1,78,600
• Match PP-BMW 1.9RAM-HK Plug & Play Harness – ₹22,800

Sound Dampening:

• Dr Artex Lace 15 (6 sheets) – ₹12,550
• Dr Artex Silver (10 sheets) – ₹13,600

Installation, wiring, calibration, tuning (RTA, etc.): ₹25,000

Total Cost: ₹5,76,300

The 7er has a lot of speakers on board, and the cost is a fair bit. But the transformation is massive. The highs are crisp, vocals are centred and clean, and the under-seats paired with proper DSP tuning give you a full-bodied low end without needing a boot sub. Most importantly, it still feels OEM.

Happy to answer questions or share tuning insights if anyone’s considering something similar.

[Fuel Of Satan]

Originally Posted by 1.2GT3GT

Do you recall whether the DSG fluid and any related parts such as oil pan filter and oil pan gasket were changed around the 60000 kms to 70000 kms mark?

Was the same service repeated again around the 120000 kms to 140000 kms mark?

Hey GT,
Unfortunately, the answer to that question is "no". Despite repeated requests, the dealership at Chennai (we reside here, but we frequent Coimbatore) told us that the 0BH DQ-500 DSG 'boxes are "sealed for life" and do not require an ATF change. In fact, even the owners manual doesn't mention an interval for an ATF change. Quite an expensive automotive lesson. The DSG unit was entirely replaced at 140,000, so I'm assuming the next ATF change is due at 210,000?
Could you perhaps provide a source which I can use to educate myself better on this topic? We're currently on the market for a GLC220d (X253, 2.1L diesel) and would love to have a solid source of information on the car.