Audi is well-known for its powerful and luxurious vehicles, offering a driving experience like no other. Audi has maintained their position as one of the leading manufacturers for a reason, but like all manufacturers, things can go wrong from time to time. From owner-reported problems, to recalls, knowing some of the common issues and recalls to keep an eye out for can help you ensure that your vehicle is kept in top condition for its entire lifespan. Here, we’re taking a look at some of the most common problems to watch out for in your Audi according to owners and Audi recalls.
Oil Sludge
In 2004, VW extended their warranty on Audi cars and a class-action lawsuit was brought against them for issues relating to the oil becoming thick and sludge-like in some 1997-2005 Audis, particularly those with a 1.8-litre engine with a 3.7-quart oil capacity. According to AudiComplaints.com, “the turbochargers in these engines are hot and, according to some mechanics, there is simply not enough oil to properly dissipate the heat. The small oil capacity also removes any margin for error on oil changes.” (http://www.audicomplaints.com/oil-sludge/, 2021.) The extended warranty by VW Audi extended the base warranty to 8 years and unlimited mileage to allow for engine repairs if the issue arose, however, owners had to provide “adequate maintenance records” which, according to audicomplaints.com, was usually difficult to successfully fulfil. They claim that “owners who threw out one oil receipt, missed an oil change by a few miles, or decided to save a few bucks and change their own oil were all known to have their claims denied.” The resulting lawsuits were eventually settled and restrictions were eased on the claims.
Airbag Recalls
Audi are another manufacturer that have been effected by the vast Takata airbag recall. According to AudiComplaints, “a large number of Audi vehicles have been recalled because they contain dangerous airbag inflators made by Takata.” (http://www.audicomplaints.com/problems/). This recall has affected millions of vehicles worldwide across multiple manufacturers and vehicle models, so it’s important to check your vehicle and whether it has an active recall currently out. The models affected include, but are not limited to: the 2nd Gen A3, £rd Gen A3, 2nd Gen A4, 3rd Gen A4, 1st Gen A5, 2nd Gen S4 and the 3rd Gen S4.
Timing Belts
Another issue reported by audicomplaints.com comes in the form of an Audi EA888 Engine fault that creates problems with the timing chain system. In the Audi EA888 engine, the timing chains appear to be failing so early, possibly due to “a timing chain tensioner failure.” (http://www.audicomplaints.com/timing-chain/, 2021) Audi released TSB (technical service bulletins) in 2010, regarding complaints relating to the timing chain, but reportedly “one of the most popular responses was to accuse owners of improper oil and filter maintenance.” As a result, lawsuits were filed and a settlement was reached that involved an extended warranty for potentially affected vehicles. VW and Audi will also “reimburse you for expenses related to engine damage” providing that previous repairs were completed by an authorised dealer, or that the repairs used original or approved parts.
Electrical Components
With a high-tech car comes the possibility of more issues, from faulty lights to internal electronics such as infotainment systems. According to EliteEuro.com.au, Audi’s electrics, while certainly worth the cost, aren’t immune to these problems. They claim that “issues with electrical components such as the lights, starter motor and battery tend to be more common with modern Audi cars” ( https://www.eliteeuro.com.au/the-most-common-audi-problems-and-how-to-solve-them/). These issues appear to come about as a result of normal wear and tear or bad driving habits, but a diagnosis can determine the exact cause. Visit your local Service4Service garage for a full diagnosis and repair.
If your Audi is in need of some TLC or a repair, feel free to get in touch with a member of our team, today.