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Known Faults Database

Audi A3 problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Audi A3, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 17 known faults for this model, 12 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Audi A3 reliable?

The Audi A3 has 17 known faults in our database across 3 generations, 12 of them rated high severity. The most serious are gearbox (mechatronic unit failure in the DQ200 gearbox) and gearbox (premature failure of the dual mass flywheel (DMF) and/or clutch). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Audi A3 years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

8L, 1996 to 20032 high severity
2 known faults, the serious ones in the engine, suspension
8P, 2003 to 20128 high severity
11 known faults, the serious ones in the gearbox, engine, fuel system, brakes
8V, 2012 to 20202 high severity
4 known faults, the serious ones in the gearbox

Years and engines with a serious known fault

  • 2008 to 2019, 7-speed dry clutch S tronic (DQ200): lower-powered A3s and the TT 1.8 TFSI S tronic: mechatronic unit failure in the DQ200 gearbox
  • 2003 to 2018, Manual and DSG/S-Tronic models: premature failure of the dual mass flywheel (DMF) and/or clutch
  • 2009 to 2015, 1.8 TFSI / 2.0 TFSI (EA888): timing chain stretch and tensioner failure
  • 2006 to 2009, 2.0 TDI PD (BMN and related codes) with Siemens piezo injectors: manufacturer recall to replace Siemens Piezoelectric injectors on 2.0 TDI PD
  • 2003 to 2008, All models: failure of the Boost Pressure Sensor G201
  • 2003 to 2012, 3.2 VR6: both timing chains of the 3.2 VR6 engine are prone to stretching

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 32 known faults

Audi A3 8L (1996 to 2003) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Timing belt snapping due to age or plastic water pump impeller failure, leading to catastrophic engine damage. Early 1.8 20v engines had plastic impellers that could seize, causing the belt to fail.

Rough guide
£2000-4000 (engine replacement)

Typical symptoms

  • Sudden loss of power and engine stopping
  • Loud bang or grinding noise from engine bay
  • Engine will not restart

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.8 20v (all variants)
Typical mileage:
70000-80000 miles
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SuspensionHigh severity📝 Editorial

Corrosion and seizing of the bottom rear hub carrier ball joint, potentially leading to the lower suspension arms snapping at the hub ends. This was subject to an official recall.

Rough guide
£1000-2000

Typical symptoms

  • Unusual noises from the rear suspension
  • Poor handling or instability
  • Visible corrosion around rear suspension components

Affected vehicles

Engines:
Quattro and S3 models
Typical mileage:
Any miles
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End of the 8L section.Pick another year ↑Check a Audi A3 advert →
Generation 2 of 311 known faults · 27 owner reports · 20 good notes

Audi A3 8P (2003 to 2012) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Oil pump balancer shaft hex drive rounds off, causing sudden loss of oil pressure and complete engine destruction

Rough guide
£1500-3000

Typical symptoms

  • red low oil pressure warning on dash
  • loud metallic grinding from the bottom of the engine
  • sudden turbo failure

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 TDI PD (Engine Code BLB / BRE)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
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Fuel SystemMedium severity🔧 Specialist mechanic

The high-pressure fuel pump is driven by a lobe on the intake camshaft through a small steel cam follower. That follower wears through, and once it does the bare pump plunger runs directly on the camshaft, chewing up the cam lobe and sending metal debris into the fuel pump. The follower is a 30 pound part that needs checking every 10,000-20,000 miles; ignore it and the bill becomes a camshaft plus HPFP, or a cylinder head rebuild in the worst cases

Rough guide
£500-2500

Typical symptoms

  • intermittent loss of power under heavy acceleration
  • metallic ticking from the top of the engine
  • P0087 low fuel pressure code

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 TFSI (EA113 with timing belt)
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Timing chain stretch and tensioner failure leading to skipped timing and engine damage

Rough guide
£700-1200

Typical symptoms

  • loud metallic rattle on cold start for 2-3 seconds
  • engine management light
  • loss of power

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.4 TFSI (EA111)
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
2 more owner reports back this up
  • May 2016The timing chain of a 2011 Audi A3 1.4 TFSI cabrio failed at just over 60,000 miles, with engine rebuild estimated at £3,000.
  • July 2014A 2010 Audi A3 1.4 TFSI required a new timing chain and tensioner after a rattling noise was heard, with a dealer quote of £1,500.
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Engine/EmissionsMedium severity📝 Editorial

EGR valve failure and DPF blockage frequently occurring after the 'Dieselgate' emissions software update

Rough guide
£400-900

Typical symptoms

  • flashing glow plug light
  • engine management light
  • limp mode (loss of power)
  • excessive DPF regenerations

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 TDI (EA189)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
7 more owner reports back this up
  • July 2018A 2010 Audi A3 TDI entered limp mode at 80,000 miles, requiring a new EGR valve after a NOx emissions update.
  • December 2017A 2010 Audi A3 TDI required a new EGR valve seven months after purchase, with the dealer charging £750 despite Audi's guarantee.
  • July 2017After a NOx emissions fix, a 2010 Audi A3 experienced dramatic power loss, cutting out, and smoke from the engine, likely due to a choked EGR.
  • May 2017An EA189 Audi A3 TDI had increased fuel consumption and engine management issues after a NOx emissions fix, with Audi requesting a £552 contribution for a new EGR cooler.
  • March 2017A 33,485 mile EA189 Audi A3 2.0 TDI experienced intermittent engine management light flashing and power loss after a NOx emissions fix.
  • February 2017A 61,000 mile 2011 Audi A3 EA189 2.0 TDI developed engine management light issues and power loss immediately after a NOx emissions 'fix'.
  • December 2016An Audi A3 TDI experienced engine management light flashing and limp mode after an emission modification, with diagnostics identifying a failed EGR valve.
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Transmission/ClutchHigh severity📝 Editorial

Planetary gear fault due to incorrect assembly in 6-speed manual gearboxes, leading to stiff gearchanges, potential gearbox explosion, and casing puncture. A TSB was issued for this.

Rough guide
£1500-3000

Typical symptoms

  • Stiff gearchange, particularly from 1st to 2nd
  • Grinding or crunching noises when shifting
  • Sudden loss of drive or gearbox failure
  • Oil leaks from transmission casing

Affected vehicles

Engines:
6-speed manual transmission
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
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OtherMedium severity📝 Editorial

Common failure of Zexel or Valeo A/C compressors, typically a year or two out of warranty. Replacement can be expensive through main dealers.

Rough guide
£450-1300

Typical symptoms

  • Air conditioning blowing warm air
  • No cold air from vents
  • Unusual noises from the engine bay when A/C is on

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All models with A/C
Typical mileage:
50000-90000 miles
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BrakesHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2011

Failure of the Boost Pressure Sensor G201, which is embedded within the Teves Mk 60 ABS/ESP control unit. This requires replacement of the entire ABS control unit/pump, a costly repair.

Rough guide
£1000-1500

Typical symptoms

  • ESP warning light illuminated intermittently or permanently
  • ABS warning light illuminated
  • Loss of ABS/ESP function

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All models
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 1 owner report, 2013

Both timing chains of the 3.2 VR6 engine are prone to stretching and jumping cogs, leading to incorrect engine timing and severe engine damage. Repair is very labour-intensive.

Rough guide
£2500-3500

Typical symptoms

  • Loud metallic rattling noise on cold start, lasting several seconds
  • Engine management light illuminated
  • Rough running or misfires
  • Loss of power

Affected vehicles

Engines:
3.2 VR6
Typical mileage:
80000-120000 miles
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 7 owner reports, 2015 to 2019

Timing chain stretch and tensioner failure, particularly in earlier EA888 engines (pre-April 2009 tensioner revision and pre-2013 engine improvements). This can lead to skipped timing, bent valves, and catastrophic engine damage.

Rough guide
£1500-5000

Typical symptoms

  • Loud metallic rattling noise on cold start, lasting several seconds
  • Engine management light illuminated
  • Rough running or misfires
  • Sudden loss of power or engine failure

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.8 TFSI / 2.0 TFSI (EA888)
Typical mileage:
45000-80000 miles
2 more owner reports back this up
  • February 2016A 2010 Audi A3 2.0 TFSI engine failed at 62,000 miles, showing no compression in one cylinder, possibly due to a stretched timing chain.
  • December 2015A timing chain stretching issue was reported on an Audi A3 TSI at 65,000 miles, despite consistent scheduled servicing.
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Fuel SystemHigh severity💬 6 owner reports, 2011 to 2012

Manufacturer recall to replace Siemens Piezoelectric injectors on 2.0 TDI PD engines (e.g., BMN code) from 2006-2009. A short circuit within the injectors can cause the fuel system to shut down and the engine to cut out. All four injectors are replaced free of charge. The engine is the 170PS PD unit: in the Audi range it is confirmed on the A3 8P (BMN) and the A4 B7 (BRD, including the B7 Cabriolet). The common-rail 2.0 TDI (CEGA) that replaced the PD engine from 2009 is not affected, and neither are the 2.0 TDIs that were common-rail from the day they arrived, so check the engine code on the V5C or the cambelt sticker before assuming a car is covered.

Rough guide
£0 (free recall)

Typical symptoms

  • Engine cutting out unexpectedly
  • Loss of power
  • Engine management light illuminated
  • Rough running or misfires

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 TDI PD (BMN and related codes) with Siemens piezo injectors
Typical mileage:
Any miles
1 more owner report backs this up
  • June 2012Injector replacement under a technical service bulletin improved the fuel economy of a TDI 170 by approximately 5mpg.
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Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 10 owner reports, 2012 to 2019

Premature failure of the dual mass flywheel (DMF) and/or clutch, leading to rattling noises, rough engagement, and potential transmission damage. This affects both manual and DSG/S-Tronic models.

Rough guide
£800-3000

Typical symptoms

  • Rattling noise from the gearbox area, especially at idle or low RPMs
  • Juddering or vibration when pulling away or changing gears
  • Stiff or heavy clutch pedal (manual)
  • Difficulty engaging gears (manual)
  • Starting problems (DSG/S-Tronic)

Affected vehicles

Engines:
Manual and DSG/S-Tronic models
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
1 more owner report backs this up
  • September 2017The clutch of a 2016 Audi S3 failed at 14,000 miles due to slip and excessive heat, costing £2,355.74 for a new kit.
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What owners report on the 8P

27 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Exhaust · October 2019The EGR valve of a 2012 Audi A3 1.6 TDI failed at 33,500 miles, after a NOx emissions fix, with Audi refusing goodwill for the £1,300 repair.
  • Engine · March 2018The inlet manifold potentiometer failed on a 2010 Audi A3 2.0 TSI at 73,000 miles, necessitating replacement of the entire plastic manifold.
  • Electrics · August 2017An Audi A3 owner received a 45FS ESC control unit recall letter that was not distributed through official government databases.
  • Electrics · August 2017An Audi A3 owner received a safety recall letter for the 45FS ESC control unit, believing it caused a prior accident.
  • Electrics · June 2017Heavy rainfall penetrated the rear window surround of an Audi A3 convertible, causing extensive electrical damage in the floorpan.
  • Exhaust · April 2017A 2010 Audi A3 1.6 TDI cabrio broke down 200 miles after a NOx emissions fix, needing a new EGR valve which was on back order.
  • Cooling · February 2017A 2010/59 Audi A3 EA189 1.6 TDI ran hotter and lost coolant after a NOx emissions fix, despite a new EGR valve fitted previously.
  • Exhaust · January 2017An Audi A3 1.6 TDI recalled for emissions modification was found to have a choked EGR valve, suggesting a link to the modification.
  • Exhaust · November 2016An EGR failure on a 2011 Audi A3 1.6 TDI led to a £1,600 dealer quote, but the owner had it replaced independently for half the cost.
  • Suspension and steering · October 2016A 2011 Audi A3 Sportback 1.2 TSI developed a clicking noise from the front suspension at 24,000 miles, requiring a strut top bearing replacement.
  • Gearbox and clutch · March 2016A 2008 Audi A3 2.0 TDI PD BMN 170 experienced crunching when shifting into third gear at 117,000 miles.
  • Engine · December 2015The Intake Manifold Flap Position Sensor failed on a 43,000 mile 2008 Audi A3 1.8 TSI, integrated into the manifold, with Audi quoting £750 for replacement.
  • Cooling · October 2015A 2011 Audi A3 2.0 TDI experienced severe coolant loss at 20,000 miles, persisting after EGR cooler, cylinder head, and cylinder block replacements.
  • Gearbox and clutch · August 2015The manual transmission of a 25,000 mile 2012 Audi A3 1.4 TSI contained shrapnel, but Audi replaced it free of charge.
  • Gearbox and clutch · July 2015A 2006 Audi A3 3.2 DSG quattro lost all drive at 75,000 miles, with gear lights flashing and the transmission fault light illuminated.
  • Electrics · June 2015A 2009 Audi A3 1.9 TDI experienced repeated failures of the ignition barrel, requiring multiple repairs.
  • Gearbox and clutch · April 2015The manual gearbox of a 2009 Audi A3 1.6 failed at 47,000 miles, with Audi offering to cover 59% of the £4,000 replacement cost.
  • Engine · October 2014A 103,000 mile 2009 Audi A3 1.9 TDI experienced engine knocking and failure, with a dealer quoting £9,000 for a new engine.
  • Engine · April 2014The engine of a 70,000 mile 2008 A3 2.0 TFSI failed due to an oil pressure drop at the cam adjuster, causing piston and valve damage.
  • Engine · March 2014The V-belt tensioner bracket on an 83,000 mile 2008 Audi A3 1.9 TDI sheared, necessitating replacement of the V-belt, timing belt, and water pump.
  • Electrics · February 2014The electrical cables for the rear lamps and boot latch in an early Audi A3 cabriolet can become cut, with a flexible repair available.
  • Electrics · July 2013Cooling fan motor issues on a 1.8T engine were traced to moisture and corrosion under the battery fuse box, causing a short circuit.
  • Gearbox and clutch · May 2013The drivetrain of a 2010 A3 1.4 TFSI failed at 52,000 miles, needing a new gearbox differential planetary gear assembly and bearing.
  • Exhaust · January 2013Injector replacement on a 102,000 mile 2007 TDI led to a failed DPF, with the engine oil level rising before the DPF issue.
  • Exhaust · August 2012A 55,000 mile 2.0 TDI 170 Sportback experienced DPF clogging after the recall replacement of piezoelectric injectors.
  • Engine · May 2012An early 1.4 TSI engine experienced a timing chain issue due to a defective component, which VW acknowledged.
  • Interior · March 2011The hinges of the glovebox lids are fragile, with multiple failures reported from forcing them shut when overloaded.

What owners like about the 8P

20 notes
  • November 2009The A3 2.0 TDI gained start-stop and a recuperating alternator, improving combined mpg to 64.2 and reducing CO2 emissions to 115g/km.
  • October 2009Automatic versions of the latest economy-focused Audi A3 models feature engine start-stop technology and a recuperation system.
  • July 2009A new 1.6-litre TDI engine for the A3, Sportback, and Cabriolet ranges offers up to 68.9mpg with start-stop and energy recuperation.
  • May 2008The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro show car features a 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine producing 224PS and 450Nm of torque.
  • The vehicle achieved a four-star NCAP crash safety rating, with three stars specifically for child protection.
  • The model range was awarded an ABI 'Best in Class' Security rating, indicating high levels of vehicle security.
  • The Sportback variant offers increased practicality and more interior space compared to the standard A3 model.
  • This neat, cloth-topped, four-seater convertible, based on the A3, features a decent boot and practical fold-down rear seats.
  • The vehicle performs optimally when equipped with the 2.0 TFSI engine, offering a superior driving experience.
  • This model is essentially an updated version of the 2003 Audi A3, retaining its core design and features.
  • The model received a significant refresh and new engines from Summer 2008, including a 7-speed S-Tronic transmission and Audi magnetic ride.
  • New visual details include a more sculpted bonnet and front wings, updated bumper and grille, and new headlamps with a curved trim.
  • The driver information system, standard on SE, Sport, and S line, displays data in a clear, high-resolution white font.
  • Split folding rear seats provide versatile luggage space, ranging from 350 to 1,080 litres in the A3 and 370 to 1,100 litres in the Sportback.
  • The vehicle offers a choice of seven engines, comprising four petrol and three diesel variants for diverse performance needs.
  • Engine options include a 1.6 unit with 102 hp, a 1.4 TFSI with 125 hp, a 1.8 TFSI with 160 hp, and a 2.0 TFSI with 200 hp.
  • The 105 hp diesel engine variant achieves an impressive fuel economy figure of 52.27 miles per gallon.
  • Most engine versions come standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the S-Tronic offers rapid, smooth gear changes.
  • The 7-speed S-Tronic transmission features dry-running clutches, eliminating the need for a separate oil supply and enhancing efficiency.
  • The quattro all-wheel-drive system is available for the 2.0 TFSI and the 170PS 2.0 TDI engine variants.
End of the 8P section.Pick another year ↑Check a Audi A3 advert →
Generation 3 of 34 known faults · 28 owner reports · 7 good notes

Audi A3 8V (2012 to 2020) problems

Transmission/ClutchHigh severity📝 Editorial

S-Tronic (DSG) mechatronic failure or dry clutch pack wear causing hesitation and jerking

Rough guide
£1000-2500

Typical symptoms

  • jerky pull away from standstill
  • loss of reverse or odd/even gears
  • gearbox error message on dash

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All S-Tronic Autos
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
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Engine/EmissionsMedium severity💬 5 owner reports, 2012 to 2017

Excessive oil consumption due to worn piston rings, particularly in earlier EA888 engines (CDAA code). Audi has historically considered 1 litre per 1,000 miles as 'normal', but this can lead to engine damage if not monitored.

Rough guide
£2000-4000 (piston/ring replacement)

Typical symptoms

  • Frequent need to top up engine oil
  • Oil warning light illuminating frequently
  • Blue smoke from exhaust on acceleration
  • Spark plug fouling

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.8 TFSI / 2.0 TFSI (EA888)
Typical mileage:
30000-80000 miles
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Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 13 owner reports, 2013 to 2019

Mechatronic unit failure in the DQ200 gearbox (the seven-speed S tronic with dry clutches), causing hesitation, jerking, and potential loss of drive. On the A3 this gearbox goes with the lower-powered engines. On the TT it applies to the 1.8 TFSI S tronic only; the TT 2.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI, TTS, TT RS and 3.2 S tronic versions use a wet-clutch gearbox and are not covered by this entry. This is a widely documented issue, with extended warranties in some markets and a campaign to replace the original synthetic gearbox oil with mineral oil.

Rough guide
£1500-3000

Typical symptoms

  • Hesitation or delay when setting off from a standstill
  • Sudden surge of power after hesitation
  • Jerking or juddering during gear changes
  • Flashing gear lights or transmission fault warning
  • Complete loss of drive

Affected vehicles

Engines:
7-speed dry clutch S tronic (DQ200): lower-powered A3s and the TT 1.8 TFSI S tronic
Typical mileage:
30000-80000 miles
9 more owner reports back this up
  • October 2019A 7-speed dry clutch S tronic gearbox in an Audi A3 1.4 TSI Cabriolet developed a noise similar to worn fan belts.
  • November 2018The DQ200 7-speed dry clutch S tronic DSG gearbox failed on a 2013 Audi A3 1.6 TDI at 62,500 miles.
  • July 2018A 2015 Audi A3 1.4 TSI with the DQ200 7-speed dry clutch S tronic automatic gearbox developed noises at 20,000 miles.
  • February 2017The S-Tronic gearbox of a 2012 Audi A3 1.8 S-Tronic skipped gears and stopped completely, with the engine shaking after a specialist repair.
  • January 2017After an S-Tronic service action to change synthetic oil to mineral, a 40,000-mile oil replacement schedule was set for 7-speed dry clutch DSGs.
  • June 2016The clutch pack and Mechatronics of a 2011/61 Audi A3 2.0 TFSI S-Tronic failed at 57,000 miles, with a £3,000 repair quote.
  • May 2013An ESP light illuminated on a 29,000 mile 2008 A3 1.4 TFSI S-Tronic, leading to a dealer diagnosis of a new S-Tronic transmission at £6,000.
  • January 2013The guarantee for the S-Tronic 7-speed dry clutch DQ200 gearbox was extended to five years or 150,000 kilometres in specific markets.
  • November 2011By late 2011, 'Optimise Double Clutch' repair kits for faulty S-Tronic transmissions were scarce, causing significant delays.
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ElectricalMedium severity💬 5 owner reports, 2017 to 2019

Failure of the MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment system, including the display screen, radio, and navigation functions. This often requires a complete module replacement at significant cost.

Rough guide
£1900-3000

Typical symptoms

  • MMI display screen raising/lowering spontaneously or not at all
  • Radio not working or intermittent reception (DAB)
  • Satnav not recalculating routes or freezing
  • System going 'bonkers' or unresponsive

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All models with MMI system
Typical mileage:
30000-60000 miles
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What owners report on the 8V

28 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Electrics · June 2021While driving, the dashboard illumination and exterior lights failed on an Audi A3, correcting themselves within a few minutes on multiple occasions.
  • Electrics · March 2020The 'pre-sense' system on a 2017 Audi S3 stopped working, requiring a £270 recalibration of the sensor.
  • Bodywork · February 2020Stains on the headlining of a 2015 Audi A3 were caused by a cracked sunroof frame, not blocked drains.
  • Engine · December 2019A turbo on a 2012 Audi A3 2.0 TDI failed at 52,000 miles, after a previous turbo replacement under warranty.
  • Electrics · November 2019A wiring loom fire occurred in a 2013 Audi A3, causing significant damage to the vehicle.
  • Suspension and steering · October 2019A 2016 Audi A3 failed its first MoT at 17,800 miles due to a rough nearside front wheel bearing, costing £350 to repair.
  • Engine · September 2019The emission light illuminated on a 2014 Audi A3 Sport 1.6 TDI, indicating a potential engine issue.
  • Interior · February 2019The driver's seat fabric in a 2014 Audi A3 began to disintegrate at 53,000 miles.
  • Electrics · September 2018The electrical control panel of a 2014 Audi A3 1.4 TSI failed at 26,000 miles, with a dealer quote of £680 for replacement.
  • Engine · September 2018A 2015 Audi A3 1.4 TFSI developed an unusual rotational sound from its engine bay at 16,000 miles.
  • Gearbox and clutch · September 2018An Audi A3 1.5 TSI Evo experienced jumping in first gear when setting off.
  • General · August 2018A three-year-old 2015 Audi A3 spontaneously combusted on the owner's driveway, destroying personal contents.
  • Electrics · August 2018A small water valve leak on a 2013 Audi A3 damaged the wiring harness, preventing the car from starting.
  • Gearbox and clutch · July 2018A clutch pack failed on a 2016 Audi A3 1.4 TFSI S tronic at 15,000 miles.
  • Gearbox and clutch · April 2018A 2018 Audi S3 2.0 TFSI quattro S-tronic saloon experienced transmission lag.
  • Gearbox and clutch · November 2017A 2016 Audi A3 1.4 TSI S-tronic saloon occasionally stuck in first gear, resolved by switching the engine off and on.
  • Electrics · September 2017The hazard lights were not working on a new Audi A3 delivered in September 2017, requiring a new switch.
  • Gearbox and clutch · June 2017A new Audi A3 2.0 TFSI Sport manual, leased in December 2016, suffered a loss of drive.
  • Electrics · January 2017A 2017 Audi A3 TFSI S tronic Cabriolet did not save its Audi Drive Select settings after being turned off.
  • Suspension and steering · December 2016Tyres on a November 2014 Audi A3 perished at the wheel rims despite low mileage, with Audi refusing liability.
  • Engine · May 2016A 2014 Audi A3 1.4 TSI COD 140 was found to be consuming one litre of oil every 600 miles.
  • Suspension and steering · May 2016Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres on a 2015 Audi A3 developed cracks between the treads at 7,000 miles.
  • Electrics · May 2016A fully serviced September 2012 Audi A3 1.8 TFSI automatic came to a sudden stop at 38,000 miles, requiring a wiring loom replacement.
  • Electrics · January 2016The satellite navigation system in a 2015 Audi A3 Sportback sometimes failed to recalculate routes after missed turns, requiring a manual reset.
  • Bodywork · August 2015A January 2015 Audi A3 Saloon developed tiny pin-head sized rust spots at eight months old, attributed to atmospheric fallout.
  • Brakes · July 2015An electromechanical parking brake on a 2014 Audi A3 Sportback generated faults if the driver remained stationary in the car, preventing release.
  • Engine · May 2015An Audi A3 1.4 TSI 140 ACT engine idled at higher than normal revolutions after a service.
  • Engine · May 2014A May 2013 Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI developed an engine fault, sounding like a bag of spanners and running on fewer than four cylinders.

What owners like about the 8V

7 notes
  • The Audi A3 achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with high scores for adult, child, and pedestrian protection, and safety assist systems.
  • An international jury of 69 motoring journalists from 22 countries voted the Audi A3 'World Car of the Year' in 2014.
  • Post-2016 Audi A3 1.4 TFSI models come with a generous amount of standard equipment.
  • The Sportback version of the A3 offers increased passenger space and a larger boot, making it more practical.
  • The Audi A3 offers a broad selection of engines, including the impressive 1.4 TFSI and 2.0 TDI units.
  • The 2020 Audi A3 Sportback features a high-quality cabin with premium materials and advanced technology like Virtual Cockpit.
  • The Audi A3 Sportback comes with a generous amount of standard equipment, even on base Technik models.
End of the 8V section.Pick another year ↑Check a Audi A3 advert →

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

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Audi A3 recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 13 DVSA recalls for the A3, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ August 2025Cars built October 2005 to December 2012

Stop-drive TAKATA PSAN

Urgent Safety Warning - Do Not Drive Your Vehicle Affected vehicles were originally allocated to or used for an extended period of time in a region with a climate zone considered to as HIGH RISK. Certain front airbags contain an ageing inflator propellant that may explode when deployed due to long-term exposure to heat and humidity. If the airbag inflator explodes metal fragments may be ejected causing life-threatening or fatal injuries to anyone in the vehicle.

Put right by: Affected airbags will be be replaced. You can contact Audi's dedicated Takata Stop Drive helpline at 0113 526 9646 (MONDAY to FRIDAY 9:00AM to 5:00PM.

DVSA R/2025/38756 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2024Cars built June 2005 to November 2012

Replacing TAKATA driver airbag

On imported Audi vehicles previously used in a warm climate zone and fitted with TAKATA driver airbag manufactured within a specific period it is possible that the gas generator housing may cause small metal parts to become dislodged from the housing and potentially injure the driver or a passenger.

Put right by: As a precautionary safety measure it is necessary to replace the gas generator in the airbag unit on the driver side of the vehicle.

DVSA R/2024/312167 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2023Cars built March 2020 to May 2023

On affected vehicles an electrical connector for the power supply for the fuse carrier in the interior of the vehicle may have not been installed correctly.

On affected vehicles an electrical connector for the power supply for the fuse carrier in the interior of the vehicle may have not been installed correctly.

Put right by: Check the electrical connection and secure if necessary.

DVSA R/2023/254104,162 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2022Cars built September 2021 to November 2021

Restraining capacity of the belt system for the front seats may be lower than intended in the event of an accident

The restraining capability of the belt system for the front seats may be lower than intended in the event of an accident.

Put right by: As a precautionary safety measure it is necessary to replace both front seat belts. Advice is givenagainst transporting children on the front passenger seat until the seat belts have been replaced.

DVSA R/2022/303174 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2021Cars built August 2020 to May 2021

The bolted connection on the input rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal can be come loose

The bolted connection of the pull rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal may come loose resulting in a loss of all service braking ability.

Put right by: Vehicles are not to be driven and the bolted connection of the input rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal must be checked and if necessary retightened.

DVSA R/2021/32311 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2019Cars built January 2014 to September 2014

The camshaft adjuster belt pulley may break or the housing bolts may come loose

The belt pulley for the camshaft adjuster may break or the bolts for the camshaft adjuster housing may come loose

Put right by: The camshaft adjuster must be replaced on the affected vehicles

DVSA R/2019/263133 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2019Cars built April 2018 to June 2018

Possible discrepancy in the manufacturing process of the centre rear seat head restraint

The centre rear head restraint may not be to specification.

Put right by: Check the head restraint and replace if necessary.

DVSA R/2019/0661,573 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2018Cars built May 2018 to September 2018

The mounting for the head restraint is not correctly welded to the outer backrest frame for the rear seat

The rear back rest head restraint mounting is not correctly welded.

Put right by: Check and replace rear back rest frame if required.

DVSA R/2018/338147 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2018Cars built March 2011 to November 2011

Starter motor may malfunction and overheat

On vehicles with diesel engines and stop/start system the starter motor may be permanently activated because the return spring in the solenoid switch is bent or broken. If the permanent current supply to the starter motor is not noticed overheating of the component with local scorching damage and a vehicle fire is possible.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the solenoid switch.

DVSA R/2018/0615,208 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2018Cars built July 2014 to November 2014

Passenger airbag may not deploy as intended

There is a possibility of a faulty weld on the gas generator. If the airbag is deployed there is a risk that parts could be projected into the cabin with risk of injury to the occupants.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the front passenger air bag module with a correctly manufactured version.

DVSA R/2018/0406 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2017Cars built August 2017 to August 2017

Rear hub carriers not manufactured to correct standard

The hardening process for the rear wheel bearing housings may not have been correctly performed. In the worst case this could lead to a fractured housing. Should a fractured housing occur there would be abnormal noises bad tyre wear and a theoretical possibility of wheel loss.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the right and left rear wheel bearing housings.

DVSA R/2017/31130 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2017Cars built May 2008 to May 2009

Abs/esc system may fail

On vehicles with ABS/ESC the earth connection may be interrupted. This may cause failure of the ABS/ESC system.

Put right by: On affected vehicles install new software. Where necessary a new ABS/ESC control unit will be fitted.

DVSA R/2017/19038,548 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2011Cars built January 2008 to December 2011

Fuel may leak

On 2.0l Common Rail engines of a limited production period faulty material can cause leaks on the high pressure pipes during the service life of the vehicle.

Put right by: Fitting of anti-vibration balance weights must be fitted on the high-pressure pipes.

DVSA R/2011/1701,825 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Audi A3 cambelt or timing chain, and service intervals

An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used A3. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
1.6 TDI, EA189, EA288
60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first

VW Group UK dropped the blanket time-based cambelt interval in 2023, moving to mileage-only limits of 140,000-180,000 miles depending on engine. Independent specialists strongly advise continuing to replace the belt and water pump every 5 years or 60,000 miles to prevent catastrophic failure on this interference engine.

DSG Oil and Filter
DQ250, 6-SPEED
40,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first

The 6-speed wet-clutch DSG/S-tronic takes a fluid and filter change every 40,000 miles. Some specialists recommend 30,000 miles for tuned or heavily used vehicles. (The underlying VW figure is 60,000 km, which UK garages round to 40,000 miles.)

DSG Oil
DQ381, 7-SPEED WET
80,000 miles

The DQ381 7-speed wet-clutch DSG has a manufacturer interval of 80,000 miles, fluid only with no filter change, so it must not be lumped in with the DQ500's 40,000-mile service. Tuners advise sooner (STR Performance suggest a 60,000 km ceiling) on mapped or hard-worked cars.

Haldex AWD Oil
4MOTION, 4X4
30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first

Official interval is 30,000 miles or 3 years. Specialists highly recommend 20,000 miles and explicitly cleaning the pump strainer/gauze to prevent pump failure.

Timing chainChain
1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI, EA111
No fixed replacement interval

Timing chain stretches and the tensioner fails, most commonly between 40,000 and 60,000 miles. No fixed replacement interval, but listen for a harsh metallic rattle on cold start lasting 2-3 seconds. Failure lets the chain jump teeth and destroys the engine.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026

Audi A3 buying questions

What are the most common Audi A3 problems?

Three stand out. Gearbox: mechatronic unit failure in the DQ200 gearbox (the seven-speed S tronic with dry clutches) (typically 30000 to 80000 miles). Gearbox: premature failure of the dual mass flywheel (DMF) and/or clutch, leading to rattling noises (typically 40000 to 80000 miles). Engine: timing chain stretch and tensioner failure, particularly in earlier EA888 engines (typically 45000 to 80000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Audi A3 years should I avoid?

No Audi A3 year is a write-off, but the 8P (2003 to 2012) carries the most serious faults: gearbox, engine, fuel system and brakes. The 8L (1996 to 2003) and 8V (2012 to 2020) have high-severity faults on record too. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Audi A3?

Ask the seller about the gearbox and engine faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for hesitation or delay when setting off from a standstill, rattling noise from the gearbox area, especially at idle or low RPMs and loud metallic rattling noise on cold start, lasting several seconds. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 17 known faults before you travel. Check a Audi A3 advert →

Are there any recalls on the Audi A3?

The DVSA lists 13 safety recalls for the Audi A3 issued between 2011 and 2025. The most recent, from August 2025, is "Stop-drive TAKATA PSAN". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of an Audi A3?

Owners report 46.2 mpg on average across the Audi A3 engines with data, about 79% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 2,898 owner submissions. Audi A3 Real MPG by engine →

Looking at an Audi A3 right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Audi A3 fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Audi A3 owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Audi A3 goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

How to haggle for a used car: negotiate the price with what its records show13 min readHPI check vs carVertical: which is better, and our pick for a UK car9 min readMOT advisories explained: how to check them, and which ones should worry you12 min read
All buyer's guides →

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