2004 Audi A3 problems

General information about Audi-A3
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Audi A3 is a subcompact executive/small family car (C-segment) manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Audi AG since September 1996, currently in its fourth generation.

The first two generations of the Audi A3 were based on the Volkswagen Group A platform, while the third and fourth generations use the Volkswagen Group MQB platform.

First generation (Typ 8L; 1996)

The original A3 (or Type 8L) was announced back in June 1995, but introduced first in the European market for more than year in September 1996, marking Audi's return to the production of smaller cars following the demise of the Audi 50 in 1978. This was the first Volkswagen Group model to use the "PQ34" or "A4" platform, bearing a close resemblance to the contemporary Volkswagen Golf Mk4, which arrived a year later. Within three years, this platform was used for total of seven cars.

The A3 was initially available only with a three-door hatchback body, to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front and four-wheel drive. The inline four-cylinder engines were transversely mounted. The Audi A3 was the eighth model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder. The dashboard was also used by the first generation SEAT León and second generation SEAT Toledo.

The United Kingdom market first received the Audi A3 in November 1996.

In 1999 Audi expanded the range with the introduction of more powerful versions: a 1.8 turbo rated 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp), and a 1.9 TDI diesel engine with unit injector "Pumpe Düse" (PD) technology and variable geometry turbocharger. The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T quattro used either the 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) or 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) engine, and the same Haldex Traction-based four-wheel-drive system as the Audi S3 and the Audi TT. Also in 1999, Audi also introduced a five-door body.

In late 2000 the A3 range was revised with new headlights and rear lamps, other minor cosmetic changes, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox, on the 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) 1.8 Turbo and the new 130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) 1.9 TDI.

Audi's electronic stability control, traction-control, and brake force distribution computer became standard equipment in some countries.

Although the first-generation Audi A3 was replaced in Europe in 2003, the first generation model continued to be sold in some markets. Production of the first generation model stopped in Brazil in 2006.

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Common 2004 Audi A3 problems

The Audi A3, a popular small car known for its agility and quick acceleration, has been reported to have several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.

One of the most critical issues is related to the brake vacuum pipe, which can crack on Audi A3s built between 1996 and 1999. This problem can lead to excessive force required to slow down the car, making it a safety concern.

Diesel models of the Audi A3, particularly those built between 2003 and 2012, have been reported to have fuel leak problems due to faulty materials used in the production of the cars. This issue can be fixed using anti-vibration weights.

The direct shift transmission on the Audi A3 uses a twin-clutch automatic gearbox, and on many cars built between 2008 and 2009, there is a recognized fault with the clutch temperature gauge. This fault causes the clutch to engage when the car heats up, leading to a loss of power while driving.

The flywheel, which connects the clutch to the engine, has also been reported to have problems on models produced between 2003 and 2005. The flywheel can become damaged or even fail completely, causing a fire in the engine. Audi should have recalled all affected cars and replaced the flywheel, so it's essential to check the service history to ascertain if this has been conducted.

Another reported issue with Audi A3s built between 2003 and 2012 is a problem with the curtain airbag, with the problem occurring predominately in Sportsback cars from 2005. This fault is due to a faulty seal that allows gas to escape from the gas generation unit rather than inflating the bag.

The timing belt on the Audi A3 needs regular replacement every 60,000 miles or it could cause problems throughout the engine. When this is replaced, it is also important that the water pump is also replaced as it could be also compromised by the fault.

For Audi A3s built between 1996 and 2003, it's important to check the rear brake pipes as these are known to corrode and could be leaking fluid, affecting the car’s ability to stop.

The engine has also been reported to fail in 2.0-ltr models of the Audi A3. This problem is caused by excessive wear to a sprocket on the oil pump and can happen at almost any time. Replacing the oil pump can solve this issue.

Stiff gear change is another common problem in all six-speed manuals of the Audi A3. This problem is caused by a gearbox synchromesh fault, and having a professional install this for you can be very expensive. However, a low-cost replacement can be found easily on parts pages, and it’s easier to replace yourself than you might think.

The brake vacuum pump on A3s built between 1996 and 1999 is famous for rapid wear. Checking your pipe for cracks and replacing the damaged one can solve this issue.

The car is misfiring, leading to a loss of power. This problem is usually caused by an engine coil failure, and replacing them can solve this issue. In very rare cases, you may find that replacing the coils hasn’t helped, in which case you’ll need to order replacement spark plugs from online stores and exchange them too.

Suspension problems can also occur in Audi A3s, causing a knocking noise when driving over speed bumps or rough surfaces. Fitting replacement track rod ends can fix this problem.

The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light can appear on the dashboard due to a blocked DPF, caused by the car only being driven around town. This problem can be solved by driving the car at high speed for a certain period to clear the filter.

In conclusion, while the Audi A3 is a good purchase and will hold its value well for the second-hand market, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and ensure regular servicing and oil changes to keep the car running smoothly for years to come.

What is the common problem with Audi A3?

Audi A3 owners have encountered issues with the air conditioning and heating systems, such as inadequate cooling or heating, strange odors and noisy operation. These problems may result from faulty compressor units, refrigerant leaks or sensor failures.

Is Audi A3 2004 a good car?

Our first impression of the car is that it's solid. Whether it be the doors, controls, steering or handling, nothing feels flimsy. We gave all three engines – the 1.6-litre four, the 2.0-litre FSI and the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel – a good workout.

Is the Audi A3 a reliable car?

The 2024 Audi A3 has a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

How long will a Audi A3 engine last?

between 150,000 and 200,000 miles

What's a good mileage for a used Audi A3? An Audi A3 is expected to last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles before any major work needs to be done such as a transmission or an engine being replaced.

What is the common problem with Audi A3?

Is Audi A3 2004 a good car?

Is the Audi A3 a reliable vehicle?

The Audi A3 is generally a reliable car. In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, the model ranked 15th out of 29 cars in the family car class. Its reliability score of 91.4% makes it more reliable than the Mercedes A-Class, but less reliable than the BMW 1 Series.

Do Audi A3 have transmission problems?

Audi A3 TF60SN Transmission Problems

Some may experience mild bumps, others violent rattling, and still others something in between those two extremes. The transmission problems in these cars are not unique to the A3 alone.

2004 Audi A3 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi A3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Vehicle speed control problems
Fuel/propulsion system problems
Power train problems
Exterior lighting problems
Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Audi A3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2004 Audi A3 complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Audi A3.

2018-01-16

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-01-13
VIN: WAUAS28P54A
Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: READING MY E-MAIL NOTIFICATION FROM NHTSA I FOUND THAT THE RECALL NO. 17V-509 ISSUED TO VWGOA MAY AFFECT AND APPLY TO OUR CAR (AUDI A3 MY 2004 ENGINE 2.0 FSI) SINCE IT HAS THE SAME FAILED PART ON ITS STRUCTURE (1K0 906 093 F). CHECKING THE ENGINES LIST ORIGINALLY ON THE RECALL REPORT FROM AUGUST 16TH 2017 I'VE FOUND THE SAME PART NUMBER INSTALLED IN OUR CAR AND EVEN FORM THE SAME SUPPLIER (KUHNKE AUTOMOTIVE GMBH). IT'S NOT A NEW CAR BUT CONSIDERING IT'S A POTENTIAL FAILURE TO OCCUR WHILE THE CAR IS RUNNING SINCE THE INSTALLED PART NUMBER IS THE SAME, THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH IS PRESENT ACCORDONG TO THE DECLARATION IN THE SAFETY RECALL REPORT. HOW SHOULD I CONTACT AUDI IN MEXICO OR USA TO ASK FOR THE NECESSARY INVESTIGATION OR ACTIONS? OF COURSE IT0'S OUT OF WARRANTY PERIOD BUT THE RISK COULD BE PRESENT IN MY CAR.

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2004-03-10

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-03-10
VIN: WAUPL68EX4A
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE--LOCKED OUT OF REVERSE.*AK

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2004-03-05

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-03-05
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: BLINDING GLARE FROM THE HID HEADLIGHTS, COUPLED WITH USE OF "FOG LIGHTS" WHEN NO FOG PRESENT. I FIND IT HARDER EACH YEAR TO DRIVE AT NIGHT DUE TO THE SITUATION WHICH OFTEN CAUSE YOU TO LOOSE SIGHT OF THE ROAD AHEAD. THE HID LIGHTS MAYU BE WITHIN "SPEC", BUT PERHAPS THE SPEC FOR HID LIUGHTS SHOULD BE CHANGED.*AK

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2004-02-03

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: WAUML44E74N
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT A MODERATE SPEED VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. DRIVER HAD TO PUT VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND APPLY THE BRAKES IN ORDER TO GET THE VEHICLE TO SLOW DOWN, AND EVENTUALLY TO STOP. *AK

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2003-11-11

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-11-07
VIN: WAULC68E54A
Components: TIRES
Summary: GENTLEMEN, PURCHASE A NEW 2004 AUDI A4, DROVE OFF THE LOT AND TRAVELED APPROXIMATELY 3 BLOCKS BEFORE THE RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT! TURNS OUT A FLAT 3" PIECE OF METAL COMPLETELY PIERCED THROUGH THE TIRE AND WHEEL! THIS CAR WAS ORDERED WITH A 18" WHEEL AND TIRE PACKAGE CALLED THE "ULTRA SPORT PACKAGE." AUDI CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS NOT INTERESTED IN LOOKING INTO THIS UNUSUAL OCCURRENCE BEYOND TALKING TO THE DEALERS SERVICE MANAGER. I EXPLAINED TO THEM THAT I HAVE BEEN IN THE AUTO BUSINESS FOR MANY YEARS AND HAVE NEVER SEEN SUCH UNUSUAL WHEEL DAMAGE. I HAVE SINCE FOUND OUT THAT I AM THE SECOND PERSON WITH NEARLY IDENTICAL WHEEL FAILURE AT THE SAME DEALERSHIP! I CONTACTED AUDI AGAIN AND INFORMED THEM OF MY FINDINGS. THEY STILL SHOWED NO INTEREST. I INFORMED AUDI'S REPRESENTATIVE THAT I WOULD BE CONTACTING YOUR DEPARTMENT AND ENDED THE CONVERSATION. IT IS MY BELIEVE THAT THE 18" WHEELS ON MY CAR ARE UNSAFE AND DO NOT MEET FEDERAL IMPACT STANDARDS. THE DEALERSHIP EMPLOYEE WHO INFORMED ME OF THE "OTHER PERSON'S WHEEL ISSUE" WILL NOT COME FORWARD FOR FEAR OF LOOSING HIS JOB. SOMETHING IS DEFINITELY WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME AT ANY TIME.*AK

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2003-10-16

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
VIN: WAULD64B94N
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: CAR WILL TOTALLY FAIL TO ACCELERATE. PRESSING THE GAS TO THE FLOOR RESULTS IN ALMOST NO MOVEMENT. THIS HAPPENS AFTER HITTING THE BRAKES AND THEN THE GAS, USUALLY DURING ROUTING TRAFFIC OR AN AVOIDANCE MANEUVER. THIS WILL GET SOMEONE (ME) KILLED. *LA

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2004 Audi A3 problems:

AUDI A3 8P - COMMON PROBLEMS BUYERS GUIDE - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf-O1VYF1z0

Jan 7, 2021 ... If you are in the market for an Audi A3, this video will show you what to look out for before parting with your cash.

Audi A3: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com

https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/audi/a3/common-problems

Audi A3 Common Problems and Solutions · Engine Failure (All 2.0-ltr Models) · Stiff Gear Change (All Six-Speed Manuals) · Weak Brake Pedal · Engine Misfire · Engine ...

Buying Advice Audi A3 (8P) 2003 - 2012 Common Issues Engines ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eH8Pu-gSHZM

Sep 1, 2018 ... Buying review of the Audi A3 generation 8P. Built between 2003 and 2012. We discuss some of the issues with this car so you can decide if ...

A3 2.0 TDI 2004 Problems | Audi-Sport.net

https://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/102223/

Aug 12, 2010 ... Hot starting problem could be down to the starter motor. Apparently a common fault on this car. Turbo whistling could be turbo but might just be ...