2012-2020 · EA288 diesel engine · 150 hp / 184 hp variants
Popular premium compact aimed at young professionals and families seeking German quality with good fuel economy. The 8V generation is built on VW's MQB platform, sharing components with the Golf but adding upmarket interior and badge appeal. The EA288 2.0 TDI is generally reliable when properly maintained, but DSG gearbox requires attention, and DPF issues plague short-trip drivers. Facelift models (2016+) are preferred with fewer early production bugs. Manual gearboxes are more reliable than S-tronic DSG. Avoid cars driven primarily in city traffic without proper motorway runs.
Occurs primarily with short-trip city driving when DPF cannot reach regeneration temperature · more· less
The DPF filter traps soot particles and requires periodic regeneration at high temperatures (typically above 600°C). Cars driven mostly on short trips (under 20 km) or in stop-and-go traffic cannot reach proper regeneration temperature, causing the filter to become clogged. Symptoms include loss of power, increased fuel consumption, and DPF warning light. Professional cleaning costs €200-250, but if severely overloaded or damaged, replacement runs €900-2,000. Prevent by driving minimum 80 km per day or taking regular motorway runs above 2,000 rpm for 20+ minutes. A faulty exhaust back pressure sensor can also prevent proper regeneration cycles.
DSG DQ250 mechatronic failure€700 - €2,000
6-speed wet-clutch DSG develops solenoid valve failures causing harsh shifts and limp mode · more· less
The DQ250 mechatronic unit combines electronic control with hydraulic valves in one module. Common failures include solenoid valve faults causing poor or delayed gear selection, particularly noticeable with loss of reverse gear. Symptoms: harsh shifting, flashing gear indicator lights, limp mode activation, jerky changes, and gearbox going to neutral unexpectedly at speed. The issue is heat-activated and typically appears after 15 minutes of driving. Warning lights may flash for 10 seconds then return to normal. Audi dealer charges €1,900+ for mechatronic replacement, but specialists rebuild units for €300-400 plus €400-500 labor. DSG oil service every 60,000 km is critical. Manual gearbox A3s are significantly more reliable.
Dual mass flywheel failure€800 - €2,400
DMF wears from high torque diesel engine, causing rattle and vibration especially when cold · more· less
The dual mass flywheel absorbs vibrations from the diesel engine but is prone to failure, particularly on manual transmission models. Early symptoms include light rattling noise when cold that subsides when warm. As failure progresses, loud rattling or banging from the bellhousing occurs at idle, vibrations through clutch pedal, and difficulty shifting smoothly. Typically fails between 80,000-150,000 km depending on driving style. Replacement requires gearbox removal. Parts alone cost €350-400 for DMF plus clutch kit. Independent garages charge €800-1,200 total; Audi dealers €1,800-2,400. Some specialists offer solid flywheel conversion kits that are more durable. Leaving it unrepaired risks damaging gearbox bearings.
Water pump / thermostat housing leak€600 - €1,800
Integrated plastic housing cracks over time causing coolant leaks typically around 70,000-100,000 km · more· less
The EA888 engine uses an integrated water pump and thermostat in one large plastic housing. The plastic develops cracks from heat cycling, causing coolant leaks. Symptoms include coolant warning light, visible puddles under the car, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. The housing costs €400-750 as Audi only sells the complete assembly. Labor is approximately 3-4 hours due to difficult access (€200-350 independent, €400-600 dealer). Total repair €600-1,200 at independent garage, €1,000-1,800 at dealer. There's a known Technical Service Bulletin for this issue on 8V A3/S3 models. Early detection prevents expensive engine damage from overheating.
EGR valve failure and carbon buildup€350 - €750
EGR valve becomes jammed with carbon deposits causing power loss, limp mode, and check engine light · more· less
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve recirculates exhaust gases to reduce NOx emissions but accumulates carbon deposits over time, especially on cars doing short trips. Symptoms include severe power loss, check engine light, rough running at idle, dark smoke under acceleration, distinct hissing sound, jerking during acceleration, and glow plug light flashing with limp mode. The EGR often becomes completely jammed shut. Replacement costs vary: parts €200-350, labor 2-4 hours. Independent garage total €350-550; Audi dealer €600-750. The valve is located at the back of the engine requiring significant labor. Cleaning can work temporarily but replacement is typically needed. Short-trip driving exacerbates the problem.
Turbo actuator sticking and failure€450 - €2,500
Wastegate actuator shaft seizes from carbon buildup causing sluggish response and EPC warning · more· less
The turbo wastegate actuator controls boost pressure but tends to stick when driven gently or on short trips as carbon builds up on the shaft. Symptoms include sluggish engine with poor throttle response, whistling sounds during acceleration, check engine light, increased fuel consumption, and mechanical grating noise when starting. Common on 2.0 TDI engines after 150,000 km. VAG typically sells complete turbo with actuator (€1,500+), but specialists can repair actuator only for €450-600 or rebuild turbo for €800-1,200. Some specialists fit improved stainless steel shafts that won't seize. Always verify boost pressure before replacing entire turbo. Regular spirited driving and premium fuel help prevent buildup.
Fuel injector failure€250 - €900 per injector
Injectors become clogged or fail leading to rough running, poor performance, and increased emissions · more· less
Diesel fuel injectors can become clogged from poor fuel quality or fail internally. Symptoms include rough idling, poor fuel economy, increased emissions, engine cutting out (especially dangerous as power steering and brakes stiffen), and check engine light. Early 170 PS engines around 2005-2006 had a wear issue with injectors failing randomly, but later engines including EA288 are improved. Each injector costs €250-375 from specialists or €400+ at dealers, plus coding €75-100 per injector. Labor approximately 2-3 hours. Total cost per injector €250-400 at independent, €500-900 at dealer. Preventive maintenance with quality diesel fuel and regular diesel additive treatments helps maintain injector performance. Early detection through diagnostics saves money versus waiting for complete failure.
AdBlue system faults (post-2015 models)€250 - €1,500
AdBlue pump, injector, or NOx sensor failures cause countdown warnings and potential no-start · more· less
Models from 2015 onwards use AdBlue/DEF emissions systems that are prone to failures. Common faults include AdBlue pump failure, injector blockage from crystallization, NOx sensor malfunctions, and control module issues. Symptoms: AdBlue warning lights, "no restart in X km" countdown, limp mode activation, and check engine light. Fault codes P208B and P2BAF are common. Repairs vary: simple injector cleaning or software update €250-350, AdBlue control module €300-400, but complete pump/tank assembly €1,200-1,500 (only available as complete unit from Audi). Some issues resolved by software updates issued in 2018. Poor quality AdBlue can cause injector clogging. Always use proper AdBlue and investigate warnings immediately before countdown expires.
Front suspension noise and wear€200 - €1,400
Bump stops, strut mounts, and control arm bushings cause creaking, rattling, and rumbling noises · more· less
The A3 8V uses a complex multi-link front suspension with 24 moving joints and bushings. Common issues include creaking from front strut mounts/bearings (especially 2016+ models even with low mileage), rumbling noise with squeaks over bumps from incorrectly fitted bump stops, clunking from loose strut tower mounting bolts, and general wear to control arm bushings and ball joints. Diagnosis is difficult as many components produce similar noises. Simple fixes: tightening strut tower bolts (free), refitting bump stops correctly (€50-100 labor). Replacement costs: strut mount €80-120 + 1.5 hours labor, control arms €150-250 each + labor, full suspension refresh at specialist €800-1,400. Some dealers have TSBs for lubricating front end joints to eliminate squeaks.
2012-2017 TFSI petrol models burn excessive oil due to piston ring and PCV valve issues · more· less
This issue primarily affects TFSI petrol engines, not the TDI diesel covered in this report, but worth noting for buyers considering both engine types. The 2012-2017 Audi A3 with 2.0T engines had a class action lawsuit for excessive oil consumption. Symptoms include oil dropping from full to minimum in 3,000-5,000 km, frequent "check oil level" warnings. Causes: faulty PCV valve (€100-200 repair), worn piston rings from design flaw (requires engine rebuild €2,500-3,500), or turbo seal leaks. Audi's official position: 1 liter per 1,200 km is "normal." First check PCV valve as it's cheapest fix. If piston rings are worn, engine rebuild needed. TDI diesel engines generally don't suffer this issue.
Average reliability for the class, DSG requires attention
The Audi A3 8V 2.0 TDI is reasonably reliable when maintained properly, with many examples exceeding 200,000 km. The EA288 diesel engine itself is robust, but supporting systems (DPF, DSG, emissions controls) need proper care. Avoid early production 2012-2015 models and prioritize facelift 2016-2020 versions. Manual gearboxes are more reliable than S-tronic DSG. Not suitable for short-trip city-only driving due to DPF issues. Service history is critical - missed DSG services or exclusively short trips are red flags.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Audi dealer or VAG specialist records essential. Verify DSG service every 60,000 km if S-tronic equipped. Check oil change intervals maintained.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm for safety), tire age from date codes (replace if over 6 years), and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for DMF rattle, turbo noises, or unusual sounds in first 30 seconds.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including motorway speeds. DSG needs to warm up to reveal issues. Test all gears, check for smooth acceleration.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, rust on wheel arches, paint mismatch indicating repairs.
Specific for this vehicle
DPF status and regeneration history
Use diagnostic scanner to check DPF soot loading percentage. Above 80% indicates clogged filter. Ask about driving pattern - city-only cars will have DPF issues.
DSG gearbox operation (if S-tronic)
Drive for 20+ minutes until fully warm. Feel for jerky shifts, hesitation, clunking, or flashing gear lights. Check service history for 60,000 km DSG oil changes. Manual transmission models are more reliable.
Cold start DMF rattle test
Engine completely cold. Start and listen for rattling noise from bellhousing area for first 30 seconds. Light rattle that disappears when warm is early warning. Loud persistent rattle means imminent failure.
Check coolant level and condition
Low coolant or brown/milky appearance indicates water pump/thermostat leak or head gasket issues. Look under car for coolant puddles after running.
Turbo boost and EPC light
During test drive, accelerate hard and watch for sluggish response, whistling, or EPC warning light indicating turbo actuator or boost control issues.
Front suspension creaks and noises
Drive over speed bumps slowly and listen for creaking, clunking, or rattling from front suspension. 2016+ models particularly prone even at low mileage.
AdBlue system (2015+ models)
Check for AdBlue warning lights or countdown messages. Verify AdBlue tank is filled. Ask about any previous AdBlue system repairs.
Emissions recall compliance
The A3 2.0 TDI was affected by the diesel emissions scandal. Verify software update has been applied. Check with Audi using VIN to confirm.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Diesel emissions software (2013-2016 TDI)Verify completed with VIN
Water pump/thermostat housing (TSB)Check warranty status
AdBlue metering system software update (2018)For 2015+ TDI models
Front suspension strut mount lubrication (TSB)For creaking noises
Passenger airbag occupant detection (2015-2020)150,000+ units recalled
Contact an Audi dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and technical service bulletins have been completed. The diesel emissions recall is particularly important for 2.0 TDI models from 2013-2016.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years unlimited km)Expired on all 2012-2020 models
Audi Extended Warranty available€800-1,400/year depending on coverage
DSG extended warranty (where applicable)5 years / 150,000 km - check eligibility
12-year anti-corrosion warrantyMay still apply on newer examples
All 2012-2020 Audi A3 8V models are outside their original factory warranty. Extended warranty is available through Audi dealers. Note that some extended warranties exclude wear items and emissions system components. Independent warranty providers may offer better value. The DSG extended warranty (5 years/150,000 km) may still be active on later models - verify with Audi using VIN.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.