So I've been browsing some import listings and I came across this really clean 2018 S7 that's done about 85,000 miles, which I know is around 135,000 kilometers, and the price is honestly tempting compared to what these go for locally. The spec is perfect, black on black with the sports diff and all the options I want, and the car looks immaculate in the photos. But here's the thing that's making me hesitate, I know these ZF 8-speeds are generally reliable, but at that sort of mileage I'm worried about the torque converter and the valve body, especially given the extra strain from the V8's power and the fact that I have no way of knowing how the previous owner treated the car. I've been doing a ton of research about the common issues with these models and it seems like transmission problems aren't super common but when they do happen they're not cheap to fix, especially here in the UAE where parts and labor can be expensive. I'm trying to figure out if I should budget for a potential transmission service or even a rebuild as part of the purchase cost, because I'd rather go in with my eyes open than be surprised later. I've seen some places that specialize in Audi Transmission Repair UAE and I'm wondering what kind of costs I should be factoring in if I do end up buying this car and something goes wrong down the line. I'm also curious if anyone has experience importing a higher mileage Audi from the US and whether there were any surprises with the transmission that weren't obvious from the initial inspection. I really want this car but I'm trying to be sensible about it and not let my heart completely overrule my head. Any advice from people who've been down this road would be massively appreciated before I make a decision that could end up being a costly mistake.
