Duckie155

Thanks for the reply.

I went to look at a few cars at FOW today but my worry is that I don’t know the car’s history. As you say at least I know my own car. 

I’ll look into the stretchy cv boots , thanks for the tip.

the steering wheel does have a lot of play in it so I think something is wrong with it. As time is passing I am occasionally noticing a grinding when I turn. 

I still can’t decide what to do for the best! 

My beloved 2011 Q5 needs work doing. I have had it 5 years & looked after it well. Always had the work done at my local Audi garage.  Last week I paid to have it looked over by Audi as it was making a noise which turned out to be the wheel bearing. Audi cam tells me..,,

It needs a replacement wheel bearing, a cv boot replacement, an intermediate steering column replacement & replacement bump stops.

Audi have quoted me £2000.

My independent garage has quoted £1000.

I am debating fixing it as the mileage is so high at 148,000. Plus if I use the independent garage will the parts be good enough, I have always had issues with the CV boots splitting on this car as I live down a very pot holey lane. I worry that 3rd party ones will be even more short lived. 

Is it time to get another used car & trade mine in or fix it cheaply & keep it going as at least I know what is wrong with this car? 
 
How many miles can a Q5 do?