Iconic sports coupe with timeless design and engaging handling. Popular with enthusiasts and first-time sports car buyers. The 2.0 TFSI engine comes in two variants: EA113 (2006-2010, timing belt) and EA888 (2008-2014, timing chain). The EA888 version has the most serious issues including catastrophic timing chain tensioner failure and excessive oil consumption from faulty piston rings. Manual gearbox is more reliable than the DSG. Main concerns: timing chain tensioner (EA888 only), oil consumption, cam follower wear, water pump failure, and carbon buildup. Maintenance costs are moderate for a sports car but parts are expensive. Verify engine variant and service history carefully before purchase.
Tensioner ratchet wears allowing chain to slip on startup causing catastrophic valve damage · more· less
This is the most serious issue on EA888 engines (2008-2014). The tensioner slackens when the engine isn't running due to no oil pressure, and as the ratchet mechanism wears, the tensioner piston moves back. There have been many cases where the chain has slipped on startup causing valve-to-piston contact and destroying the engine. Early warning sign is a rattle on cold or semi-warm startup lasting 0.5-1 second. If ignored, repair costs €3,000-4,000 for cylinder head replacement or €7,000-10,000 for complete engine replacement. Preventive tensioner upgrade costs €850-1,300 at independent shops (4-5 hours labor). The revised tensioner (4th revision, released mid-2012) is more reliable. German plants adopted the updated part in late 2012; Hungary plant may have been well into 2013. EA113 engines (2006-2010) use a timing belt and are not affected by this issue.
Excessive oil consumption (EA888 Gen 2)€1,500 - €6,000
Piston rings too thin from factory allowing oil to leak into cylinders, 1L per 600 miles reported · more· less
Most EA888 Gen 2 engines (CCTA, CBFA) built prior to 2012 are affected by faulty piston rings. The rings are too thin and allow oil to leak around pistons into cylinders where it burns. Some owners report consumption of 1 liter every 500-600 miles. Repair involves removing the engine and replacing pistons, piston rings, and connecting rods - approximately 12 hours labor. Independent shops charge €1,500-2,500 for the repair; Audi dealers charge €4,000-6,000. Before doing the piston fix, check cylinders with borescope for damage - if bores are damaged, the ring fix won't solve the problem. First try replacing the PCV valve (€160, 20 minutes) as this can sometimes reduce oil consumption. EA113 engines (2006-2010) and late EA888 engines (2012+) are much less affected. Always check oil level weekly on these engines.
Cam follower wear (EA113 only)€30 - €3,000
Flat tappet wears through hardened surface, then damages camshaft and HPFP if unchecked · more· less
The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower on EA113 engines (2006-2010) is a flat tappet with diamond-like carbon coating. Once the hardened face begins to erode, underlying metal wears quickly. If not caught in time, the HPFP piston becomes exposed and digs into the cam lobe, requiring camshaft and HPFP replacement (€2,000-3,000). The follower itself costs €30 and takes 30-45 minutes to replace. Check every 30,000 km or annually - extremely simple DIY procedure. Use only OEM INA cam follower. Audi published TSB in 2007 but never made it a scheduled service item. EA888 engines use a roller tappet and are not affected by this issue. This is a critical maintenance item on EA113 engines - never skip it.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€250 - €1,200
Direct injection means no fuel washing valves, carbon accumulates causing rough idle and misfires · more· less
All 2.0 TFSI engines use direct injection, meaning fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber. Unlike port injection, the intake valves are never washed by fuel, leading to carbon deposits. Symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased acceleration, hesitation, and reduced fuel efficiency. Typically becomes noticeable between 60,000-100,000 km. Walnut shell blasting is the proper fix - costs €250-450 at independent shops, €700-1,200 at dealers, approximately 4 hours labor. Some shops offer chemical cleaning for €200-300 but walnut blasting is more thorough. This is not a defect but normal maintenance for direct injection engines. Preventive measures: use premium fuel, occasional spirited driving (Italian tune-up), and regular oil changes.
Water pump failure€600 - €1,200
Electric water pump with integrated thermostat housing fails between 70,000-100,000 km · more· less
The 2.0 TFSI uses an electric water pump integrated with the thermostat housing. Failures are common between 70,000-100,000 km. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. The integrated design means the part costs €400-500. Labor is approximately 3-4 hours due to accessibility, with total repair €600-850 at independent shops, €850-1,200 at dealers. Common failure points are leaking gasket where it bolts to cylinder block or cracking of composite housing itself. Early detection prevents engine damage - never ignore coolant warnings. This is considered a normal wear item on these engines.
DQ250 6-speed mechatronic unit valve body fails, causing harsh shifts and limp mode · more· less
The TT 8J with DSG automatic uses the DQ250 6-speed wet-clutch transmission. The mechatronic unit (combined ECU and hydraulic control valve) is a known weak point. Symptoms include intermittent P R N D S light flashing, gearbox going to neutral, harsh shifting, limp mode, delayed engagement. Often intermittent at first but becomes permanent if left untreated. DIY repair kit costs €380 (3 hours work), refurbished mechatronic unit €1,500, new unit from dealer €2,500+. Specialist mail-in repair services available. Note: the DQ250 is more reliable than the dry-clutch DQ200 used in other VAG models. Regular DSG service every 60,000 km helps prevent issues. Manual gearbox TTs are significantly more reliable.
PCV valve diaphragm failure€30 - €160
Rubber diaphragm tears causing loud whistle, rough idle, oil leaks, and boost loss · more· less
One of the most common faults on 2.0 TFSI engines is PCV (pressure control valve) diaphragm failure. The rubber diaphragm tears, causing a large vacuum leak. Symptoms include very loud screeching/whistle noise from engine bay, rough/choppy idle, higher idle RPM, P0171 code (running lean), oil leaks from crankcase pressure, boost loss, poor throttle response, and misfires. Easy to diagnose: with engine running, check for vacuum at PCV breather port - if you feel vacuum, diaphragm is torn. Replacement diaphragm costs €30 (Dorman 917-064), 5 minute install with screwdriver. Complete PCV valve costs €160. Replace preventively around 70,000 km. Important: multiple PCV valve versions exist - ensure you get correct part for your specific engine code. If failed PCV is ignored, crankcase pressure can damage rear main seal requiring major repair.
Diverter valve failure€40 - €150
Turbo pressure release valve fails causing boost fluctuation and surge on partial throttle · more· less
The diverter valve (DV) is located on the side of the turbo and diverts unused pressure back into the system to avoid compressor surge. Early EA113 diverter valves were faulty and VAG made several revisions. Symptoms include loss of boost, surging and fluctuating boost on partial throttle, and rattling sound like playing card against bicycle wheel at throttle release. Latest revision part number is 06A 145 710 N, costs €40-75. Simple DIY replacement taking 30 minutes. Not the same as wastegate (which is controlled by N75 valve). Regular failure on early cars but later revisions are more reliable. Replace with latest OEM revision if yours fails.
Window regulator failure€45 - €1,000
Window mechanism fails on early cars causing windows to stick or refuse to move, often with creaking · more· less
Window regulator mechanism failure is common on early 8J TTs. Symptoms include windows refusing to go up or down, intermittent movement, or loud creaking before failure. The regulator has plastic components that wear. DIY repair kit costs €45 (2-3 hours), replacement regulator €40-150 (parts only), professional installation €325-1,000 depending on shop. Some owners report Audi dealers quoting nearly €1,000 for the repair. Independent shops charge €300-400. The adapter that connects to the vent tube can also be missing, causing other issues. This is a well-documented TT 8J problem with affordable DIY fixes available.
Steering rack knocking (early cars)€300 - €2,000
Pre-2010 racks have plastic internal cogs that wear causing knocking and vague steering · more· less
Common fault on earlier Mk2 TTs (8J) from 2006-2010. Symptoms include knocking at low speed on cobblestones even without turning, and steering wheel feeling light/vague. The steering rack has plastic cogs that wear over time. Some cars needed replacement at just 42,000 miles. Audi dealers quote €900 parts + €1,000+ labor. Rebuilt racks with metal gears cost €300-800, while 3rd generation rack (2010+ type) with wiring loom and coding costs €1,000+. Some owners have successfully gotten Audi UK to cover this on goodwill. Before replacing rack, check stabilizer bushings, control arm bushings, and rack mounting bushings as these can cause similar symptoms. Later cars (2010+) use improved rack design.
Ignition coil pack failure€90 - €200
Coils fail from heat and electrical overload causing misfires, rough running, or no start · more· less
Ignition coil failure is fairly common on TT 8J. When describing misfire symptoms, service staff "immediately guess it's an ignition coil" as it's typical. Early coil revisions were unreliable. Symptoms include hard starting or no start, misfiring, loss of power, poor acceleration. One owner had all 4 coils replaced at just 35,000 miles. Individual coil replacement costs €90-120 at independent shops, €100-200 at dealers. Most coils last 60,000 miles or more, some fail earlier. Use only OEM Audi coils or quality OEM supplier parts - avoid Chinese knockoffs as they fail quickly. When one coil fails, consider replacing all four as others may be near end of life. This is considered normal maintenance on turbocharged engines.
Magnetic Ride suspension failure (if equipped)€1,700 - €4,000
Magnetorheological dampers leak after 7-8 years, replacement very expensive · more· less
TTS and some TT models equipped with Magnetic Ride commonly experience damper failures after 7-8 years regardless of mileage. Front struts cost €1,400 each, rear shocks €850 each from dealer. Symptoms include visible oil leaking from dampers. Total OEM replacement for all four corners costs €3,500-4,000. Alternatives: Chinese replacements from Aerosus cost about half OEM price, refurbished units from Polish specialist Nagengast available, or convert to conventional suspension with all 4 corners plus Mag Ride delete adapters (€800-1,500). If converting away from Mag Ride, must replace all 4 dampers together. This is an expensive potential repair on TTS models - factor into purchase decision.
Headlight condensation (xenon)€0 - €100
Xenon headlights mist up frequently in cold/damp weather, usually clears when lights heat up · more· less
Headlight condensation is extremely common on TT 8J, especially with xenon units. Xenons get very hot so must be ventilated - they're not sealed. Light misting in cold/damp weather is normal and mentioned in owner's handbook. Should clear when headlights are on for a while. If condensation doesn't clear or is very heavy, water is leaking in. Common causes: clogged/missing ventilation hose adapter (part 8J0941109A, costs €20-40 for pair), blocked intake hose behind grill, or missing connection to vent tube. Audi published TSB with modified hose (8J0941717B left, 8J0941718 right). DIY fixes: silica gel packets inside headlight, hair dryer to dry out, check vent tube connection. This is not a serious issue unless persistent heavy condensation exists indicating water ingress.
Engine variant matters - EA888 has serious issues
The TT 8J used two different 2.0 TFSI engines. EA113 (2006-2010, timing belt) is generally more reliable but requires cam follower checks. EA888 (2008-2014, timing chain) has catastrophic timing chain tensioner failure risk and widespread piston ring oil consumption issues. Always verify which engine your car has and whether critical issues (timing chain tensioner, piston rings) have been addressed. Cars with full service history and evidence of preventive maintenance are worth significantly more. Budget €400-900 annually for potential repairs beyond routine maintenance.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals. Look for evidence of timing chain tensioner update (EA888) or cam follower replacements (EA113).
Tires
Standard sizes: 245/45 R17 or 245/50 R17. Check tread depth (minimum 3mm), age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in first 1-2 seconds on EA888 engines. Any persistent rattle is serious.
Body condition
Check for corrosion under boot area, accident damage, paint mismatch. Stone chips on front bumper common.
Test drive
Minimum 20-30 minutes including highway speeds. Let DSG get up to temperature if equipped.
Specific for this vehicle
Identify engine variant (EA113 vs EA888)
Check engine code on sticker under hood or in service book. EA113: BPY, BWA (belt-driven). EA888: CCTA, CBFA (chain-driven). This is the most important check as it determines risk profile.
Cold start timing chain rattle test (EA888 only)
Engine must be completely cold (overnight). Start and listen in first 1-2 seconds. Any rattle indicates worn tensioner - budget €1,300-10,000 depending on damage. This is critical.
Oil consumption check
Check oil level with dipstick. Ask owner about oil consumption between changes. Anything over 1L per 2,000 km indicates piston ring issues (€1,500-6,000 repair). Check for oil residue around engine bay from PCV failure.
Cam follower inspection (EA113 only)
Ask when cam follower was last checked/replaced. Takes 30 minutes to inspect. If no record, budget €30 for replacement or have specialist check before purchase.
Carbon buildup symptoms
Test drive: does it idle smoothly? Any hesitation on acceleration? Any misfires? If yes, likely needs carbon cleaning (€250-1,200). More common after 80,000 km.
Check coolant level and condition
Low coolant or brown/milky appearance indicates water pump or head gasket issues. Water pump failure common 70,000-100,000 km.
DSG gearbox operation (if equipped)
Drive for 15+ minutes until warm. Feel for jerky shifts, hesitation, clunking, or delayed engagement. Check for flashing PRND lights. DSG service history essential - should be every 60,000 km.
Listen for PCV valve whistle
With engine running, listen for loud screeching/whistling from engine bay. Indicates failed PCV diaphragm. Cheap fix (€30-160) but indicates deferred maintenance.
Test window regulators
Operate both windows fully up and down multiple times. Listen for creaking or grinding. Check for intermittent operation. Common failure on early cars.
Steering rack test
Drive slowly over rough surface/cobblestones. Any knocking from steering indicates worn rack (€300-2,000). Pre-2010 cars most affected. Steering should feel precise, not vague.
Headlight condensation check
Look inside xenon headlights for water droplets or heavy misting. Light misting is normal, but heavy persistent condensation indicates vent hose issue or water ingress.
Check service interval display
Verify when next service is due. Check if oil change intervals are reasonable (max 15,000 km/1 year). These engines need regular oil changes.
Inspect for common wear items
Check base of front seats for sagging (very common). Check rear light connections (dimming indicates poor ground). Test bonnet release lever (known to snap).
Magnetic Ride check (TTS / if equipped)
Inspect all four dampers for oil leaking or misting. Replacement is very expensive (€1,700-4,000 for all four corners). Test all suspension modes work.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Fuel tank ventilation valve (2006-2010)Fire risk - verify completed
Cam follower inspection (EA113)TSB 2007 - not recall
The TT 8J has been assigned 893 technical service bulletins. Contact Audi dealer with VIN to verify all safety recalls completed. TSBs document known problems but repairs are not free unless covered by warranty. Consider purchasing access to erwin.audi.com (€7/hour) to view complete TSB history for your specific VIN.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all 8J TTs
DSG extended warrantyCheck with dealer (some 5yr/150k km)
Timing chain tensioner settlement (EA888)Max €6,500 reimbursement if repaired
Paint/rust warrantyExpired (was 3 years)
All TT 8J models are well outside their original factory warranty. Extended warranties are available through Audi dealers but typically exclude oil leaks, wear items, and may have mileage/age limits. Volkswagen settled a class action for timing chain issues - if independent shop performed engine work due to timing chain failure, maximum €6,500 reimbursement may be available. Contact Audi customer service if you experience timing chain tensioner failure for possible goodwill assistance.
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.