2003-2012 · 2.0L TDI diesel (140/170 PS) · Second generation
Popular premium compact hatchback sharing its platform with VW Golf, Skoda Octavia, and SEAT Leon. The 2.0 TDI is a mixed bag: pre-2008 Pumpe Düse engines (BKD, BMM) have oil pump, injector, and potential cylinder head issues, while post-2008 Common Rail engines (CBAB, CBBB) are more reliable but still face DPF clogging and dual mass flywheel wear. The BMM variant (8-valve, 140 PS, 2005-2008) is the most robust PD engine. Budget for timing belt every 4-5 years, DSG mechatronics if auto, and potential turbo actuator sticking from short journeys. Higher repair costs than Golf/Octavia equivalents due to Audi dealer pricing.
Common on short-trip driving, regeneration fails causing limp mode · more· less
The DPF captures soot from exhaust gases but needs high temperatures (2,000+ RPM sustained driving) to regenerate. If driven mainly on short trips or at low speeds, the DPF becomes clogged. Symptoms include DPF warning light, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and limp mode. Professional cleaning costs €300-600, but if the filter is physically damaged or beyond 110,000-130,000 km, replacement runs €1,050-2,350 at dealers. Early PD engines were more prone to DPF issues than post-2008 Common Rail engines.
Dual mass flywheel failure€600 - €1,200
High torque diesel engines stress DMF, causing rattling and vibration · more· less
The dual mass flywheel reduces vibration in manual transmission diesels but is a known wear item. Symptoms include rattling noise at idle (especially with clutch released), vibrations through the clutch pedal, and difficulty shifting smoothly. Typically fails between 80,000-130,000 km. There was a recall for 2003-2005 A3 2.0 TDI models with 6-speed manual gearboxes. Replacement requires gearbox removal; clutch should be replaced simultaneously. Labor-intensive job: €180-500 labor plus €400-700 for flywheel and clutch kit at independent garages. Audi dealers charge significantly more.
Chain-driven oil pump sprocket wears, can cause catastrophic engine failure · more· less
This affects primarily pre-2007 2.0 TDI PD engines (BKD code). The chain-driven oil pump has a sprocket that wears excessively, and the chain can snap without warning, causing immediate loss of oil pressure and potentially destroying the engine. Can happen at any mileage under 100,000 km. Some specialists recommend preventive replacement or switching to the later gear-driven module. Oil pump part costs €180-300, but labor is extensive (4-6 hours) as subframe may need loosening. Total repair €1,200-2,500. The BMM 8-valve engine is less affected. Post-2008 Common Rail engines use a different system.
Control unit faults cause jerky shifts, clutch slip, or complete failure · more· less
The 6-speed DSG (DQ250 wet clutch) and 7-speed DSG (DQ200 dry clutch) both suffer mechatronics failures. Symptoms: PRNDS light flashing, jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, harsh shifts, inability to select gears. The DQ200 (7-speed) has worse reputation with more recalls. There was a 2008-2009 recall for false temperature signals causing clutch protection activation. DQ250 requires oil changes every 40,000 km or 4 years (often neglected). Mechatronics replacement costs €1,500-4,500 at Audi dealers. Some owners report Audi/VW goodwill repairs even out of warranty if pressed. Manual gearbox A3s are significantly more reliable.
Turbocharger actuator sticking€500 - €2,500
Carbon buildup from short trips causes EPC light and limp mode · more· less
The turbo wastegate actuator sticks when driven gently or only for short trips, allowing carbon buildup. Symptoms include EPC warning light, loss of power, limp mode, and reduced boost. VW doesn't sell the actuator separately from the turbo. Actuator-only repair at specialist: €500-700. If turbo internals are damaged, full turbo replacement: €1,200-2,500 (reconditioned turbos €600-900). Prevention: use premium fuel, drive spiritedly occasionally, and take longer trips regularly. Turbo failure around 100,000-150,000 km is not uncommon without proper maintenance.
Early 170 PS engines had faulty Siemens piezo-injectors, causing misfires · more· less
The early 170 PS 2.0 TDI engines (BMN code) were fitted with faulty piezo-injectors made by Siemens - there was a recall. Symptoms: rough running, misfires, black smoke, difficult starting, loss of power. Common on BKD and BMM engines too, typically after 80,000-120,000 km. Single injector replacement at dealer: €700-900. All four injectors: €1,800-3,200. Remanufactured injectors available for €195-300 each. When buying a 170 PS A3, verify the injector recall was completed. Dirty/clogged injectors can also cause starting issues - check with VCDS diagnostics which cylinder is affected.
Timing belt and water pump€600 - €1,200
Scheduled replacement every 90,000-110,000 km or 4-5 years · more· less
This is not a failure but scheduled maintenance. Factory interval is 110,000 km, but many experts recommend 90,000 km. Time-based replacement at 4-5 years is also advised regardless of mileage. Always replace tensioners, idler pulleys, and water pump simultaneously - these components wear and can cause premature belt failure. Independent garage: €600-850 (belt, tensioner, water pump, labor). Audi dealer: €900-1,200. Skipping this service risks catastrophic engine damage from valve-piston contact. Check service history carefully when buying - this is a deal-breaker if overdue.
EGR valve clogging€500 - €1,000
Carbon buildup causes glow plug light, limp mode, and rough running · more· less
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve recirculates exhaust gases but accumulates carbon deposits, especially with short trips or town driving. Symptoms: glow plug warning light flashing, limp mode, reduced power, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, pinging/rattling under load. Common around 80,000-130,000 km. On 2.0 TDI, the EGR is underneath the car, making access labor-intensive. Cleaning is possible but often temporary. Replacement: €500-1,000 at independent garage (€750+ quoted commonly), Audi dealers €900-1,200. Labor typically 4-6 hours due to location. Some owners report €95/hour x 6 hours labor plus parts. Aftermarket EGR valves from €40-250.
Fuel pipe leaks (2008-2011 Common Rail)€150 - €600
Engine vibration causes stress cracks in fuel lines, fire risk · more· less
2.0 TDI models built between September 2009 and September 2011 had a recall for fuel injector line cracks. Under specific load and RPM conditions, injector pulses coincide with cylinder 2 frequency, creating resonance that cracks the fuel line. Fuel can leak onto hot engine parts, potentially causing fire. Audi's fix: install improved fuel injector line for cylinder 2 and add vibration dampers on all four lines. This should have been done under recall - verify completion with VIN at Audi dealer. If not done, the repair is free. Some pre-2008 models also affected. Replacement pipes are inexpensive (€50-150) but labor varies.
Control arm bushings wear€250 - €450
Rubber bushings crack causing squeaking, vibration, and handling issues · more· less
Front control arm bushings degrade over time, especially with age and high mileage. Most noticeable around 130,000-160,000 km but can occur earlier with aggressive driving or rough roads. Symptoms: squeaking over bumps, vibration or shimmy, early tire wear, inconsistent handling. If severely worn, metal-on-metal contact damages other suspension components. Replacement cost: €250-450 for both sides at independent garage. Many owners upgrade to polyurethane Powerflex bushings (lifetime warranty, better handling, no added vibration). Consider replacing ball joints, tie rod ends simultaneously if needed.
Alternator failure€600 - €1,100
Bearing failure or electrical fault causes battery warning light · more· less
Alternators can last well over 160,000 km but eventually fail. Symptoms: battery warning light, dead battery, dim lights, electrical components losing power, grinding noise that changes with engine speed. Harsh conditions and aftermarket accessories shorten lifespan. Replacement cost: €600-1,100 total (parts €200-400, labor €300-500). More difficult on some A3 variants where alternator access requires removing other components. Can be DIY if accessible and you understand charging system. Aftermarket alternators (Bosch, Valeo) available for €150-350.
Glow plugs failure€130 - €250
Weak glow plugs cause slow cold starting and rough running · more· less
Glow plugs weaken over time. When failing, the engine takes longer than 3-5 seconds to start cold, or won't start at all. May run rough until near-operating temperature due to cylinder misfiring, with smoke from exhaust. Common around 100,000-130,000 km. Replacement is straightforward: €130-250 for all four glow plugs fitted (parts €40-100, labor minimal). Glow plug control module failure is separate and more expensive (€300-450). Driving with bad glow plugs is possible once engine warms up, but cold starting becomes difficult or impossible. One of the cheaper diesel maintenance items.
Reliable if maintained, but expensive repairs when things fail
The A3 8P 2.0 TDI can be dependable with proper maintenance and careful model selection. The post-2008 Common Rail engines avoid the oil pump and cylinder head issues of early PD engines, while the BMM variant (2005-2008, 8-valve, 140 PS) is the safest PD choice. Manual gearbox versions are more reliable than DSG. Budget for timing belt service, avoid short-trip-only cars with DPF, verify recalls completed, and expect higher repair costs than equivalent VW Golf or Skoda Octavia due to Audi dealer pricing.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Audi dealer or VAG specialist records essential. Verify timing belt replacement, DSG oil changes if auto.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm), age (date codes on sidewall), uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for oil pump rattle, turbo whistle, or rough running in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust underneath, accident damage (panel gaps), paint mismatch indicating repairs.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds. DPF and DSG issues often only appear when hot.
Specific for this vehicle
Verify engine code and year
Check VIN sticker in door jamb. Pre-2008 PD engines (BKD, BMM, BMN) have different issues than post-2008 CR engines (CBAB, CBBB). BMM 8-valve is most reliable PD variant.
Check for DPF warning light and regeneration
Take 20+ minute highway drive at 2,000-2,500 RPM. Watch for DPF light. Ask seller about driving patterns - short trips only is red flag.
DSG gearbox operation (if equipped)
Check for jerky shifts, PRNDS light flashing, delayed engagement, clunking. Verify DSG oil change history every 40,000 km.
Listen for dual mass flywheel rattle
At idle in neutral, listen for rattling noise (worse with clutch released). Also check for vibrations through clutch pedal.
Cold start for oil pump issues (pre-2007 PD)
Listen carefully for rattling in first 30 seconds after cold start. Any persistent rattle indicates timing chain/oil pump wear.
Verify fuel pipe recall completed (2009-2011 models)
Contact Audi with VIN to confirm fuel injector line recall completed. Critical safety issue.
Check timing belt service history
Must be replaced every 4-5 years or 90,000-110,000 km. Overdue timing belt is deal-breaker. Verify tensioner and water pump also replaced.
Test for turbo boost and EPC light
Accelerate hard in 2nd and 3rd gear. Check for full boost, no EPC light, smooth power delivery. Hesitation or limp mode indicates turbo actuator or N75 valve issues.
Check for injector problems
Rough idle, misfires, black smoke indicate injector issues. On 170 PS models, verify injector recall completed. VCDS scan recommended.
Inspect for oil leaks
Check under car for oil on oil pump, turbo oil lines, cam cover gasket. Oil leaks can indicate worn seals or pending failures.
Suspension noise and bushings
Drive over speed bumps and rough roads. Listen for squeaking, clunking from worn bushings. Check for vibration through steering wheel.
EGR valve operation
Check for glow plug warning light. If present with power loss, likely EGR clogging. Ask about any recent limp mode episodes.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Dual mass flywheel failure (2003-2005, 6-speed manual)Verify completed
DSG temperature sensor fault (2008-2009)Software update
Fuel tank ventilation valve (2006-2010)Verify completed
Mechatronic warranty extension (U49 vehicles)15 years/150,000 miles
Contact an Audi dealer with the vehicle's VIN to verify all recalls and TSBs have been completed. The fuel injector line recall (2009-2011) and dual mass flywheel recall (2003-2005) are particularly important for safety and reliability. Some vehicles may be eligible for extended mechatronic warranty coverage.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (4 years/50,000 miles)Expired on all 8P models
Corrosion warranty (12 years unlimited)May still apply to 2012 models
Mechatronic extended warranty (if U49 key)15 years/150,000 miles from in-service
Third-party extended warranty€2,000-4,500 (varies by coverage)
All Audi A3 8P models (2003-2012) are now outside their original factory warranty. Some vehicles may still be covered by the 12-year corrosion warranty. Check VIN with Audi dealer to verify eligibility for mechatronic warranty extension. Third-party extended warranties available but exclude pre-existing conditions and often have age/mileage limits.
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.