2018 Audi A3 problems
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 2018 Audi A3 problems
The 2018 Audi A3 has several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. These issues range from engine and transmission concerns to interior and exterior defects.
One of the most prevalent problems with the 2018 Audi A3 is the oil pump drive failure in certain diesel-engined models. This fault is caused by excessive wear on the drive shaft, leading to poor pump performance and low oil pressure. This issue is common in Volkswagen Audi group products and can result in significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Another common problem is the premature rusting of the front wings, which is also common in Volkswagen Golfs and larger Audis. This issue is covered under Audi's 10-year rust guarantee for cars under 10 years old, but for older vehicles, replacing the wing with a part from a breaker or parts car is the most cost-effective solution.
The DSG gearboxes in the 2018 Audi A3 are also prone to problems if the service intervals are not adhered to. These gearboxes rely on clean oil to function correctly, and if the oil is contaminated, it can lead to faults developing. Regular maintenance and oil changes can help prevent these issues.
The Audi A3's front suspension can also generate a rumbling noise with occasional squeaks, which can be disconcerting for drivers. Grinding noises can also occur in the steering, which is typically caused by a faulty control unit on the steering column. Replacing this unit is a straightforward task, but it's essential to follow the correct procedures to avoid further damage.
The Audi A3's air-conditioning system can also develop faults, resulting in whistling noises when in operation. This issue is typically caused by a faulty expansion valve, which needs to be replaced by a specialist. Draining and refilling the system is also required after the new valve is installed.
Oil pressure problems can also occur in the 2018 Audi A3, causing the engine warning light to illuminate. This issue is typically caused by a faulty oil pressure sensor, which can be replaced by disconnecting the sensor's wiring plug and unbolting the sensor.
In summary, the 2018 Audi A3 has several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of, including oil pump drive failure, premature rusting of the front wings, DSG gearbox issues, front suspension and steering noises, air-conditioning faults, and oil pressure problems. Regular maintenance and adherence to service intervals can help prevent many of these issues, but potential buyers should be prepared for the possibility of additional costs associated with repairs and replacements.
Is the 2018 Audi A3 reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2018 Audi A3? The 2018 Audi A3 has a below-average predicted reliability rating of 2.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
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.
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.
Is Audi A3 expensive to maintain?
Cost. The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Audi A3 is $741, compared to an average of $801 for luxury compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
Is the 2018 Audi A3 reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2018 Audi A3? The 2018 Audi A3 has a below-average predicted reliability rating of 2.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
Is there any problems 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 expensive to maintain?
Cost. The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Audi A3 is $741, compared to an average of $801 for luxury compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
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.
2018 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:
- Air bags problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Audi A3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Audi A3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Audi A3.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: WAUAUGFF1J1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi A3. The contact stated after parking the vehicle, a bystander alerted the contact that there was fuel leaking from the rear passenger's side near the fuel tank. The contact drove the vehicle to a gas station and was unable to refuel the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the charcoal canister was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where it was determined that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-08
- VIN: WAUGUGFF8J1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi A3. The contact stated while driving in a parking lot, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the battery was drained, and the vehicle failed to restart. The contact jumpstarted the vehicle. The battery was replaced. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the alternator needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the part was on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was called, but there was no response. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-30
- VIN: WAUAUGFF0J1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi A3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-16
- VIN: WAUUPBFFXJA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi A3. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the dealer informed the contact that the parts for the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-15
- VIN: WAUB8GFF9J1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi A3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- VIN: wauaugffxj1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi A3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer and manufacturer were made aware of the issue and informed the contact that the remedy was not available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-05
- VIN: WAUAUGFF5J1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 AUDI A3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V474000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT AUDI GRAPEVINE (LOCATED AT 1260 E STATE HWY 114, GRAPEVINE, TX 76051, (817) 354-2834) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-01
- VIN: WAUTPBFFXJA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 AUDI A3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V474000 (AIR BAGS). AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER (AUDI OF TYSON, 8598 LEESBURG PIKE, VIENNA, VA) AND THE MANUFACTURER, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-27
- VIN: WAUAUGFF9J1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 AUDI A3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V474000 (AIR BAGS). CIRCLE AUDI (LOCATED AT 1919 N LAKEWOOD BLVD, LONG BEACH, CA 90815, (562) 597-3663) STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT FELT THAT THE DEALER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. *AS *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-09
- VIN: WAUB8GFF0J1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 AUDI A3 EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL CONTI PRO CONTACT TX TIRES, SIZE: 225/40R18 92HXL (NA). WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE THREAD SEPARATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PAUL MILLER AUDI (179 US-46, PARSIPPANY, NJ 07054, (973) 575-7750) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TIRE PERFORMED AS DESIGNED; HOWEVER, THE TIRE WAS REPLACED. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE DEALER COULD SEND THE TIRE BACK TO THEM FOR REVIEW AND INSPECTION. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,101. THE DOT NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-15
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: HI, I BOUGHT AN AUDI A3 2018 ON NOVEMBER 2017 FROM AUDI OF ROCHESTER HILLS, MICHIGAN.SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD ISSUES WITH THE ORIGINAL PIRELLI TIRES IN THE CAR. TWO INCIDENTS HAPPENED WITHIN A SPAN OF 1 YEAR WHERE THE TIRE WAS DAMAGED ON THE SIDE WALL AND AND IT WAS IRREPLACEABLE SO I HAD TO GET A NEW TIRE WITHIN FEW MONTHS OF BUYING THE CAR. ON DEC 15, 2018 I LOST TIRE PRESSURE WHILE DRIVING IN SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN AND WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS SIDEWALL DAMAGE. ON MAY 31, 2018 I WENT OVER A POTHOLE AT THE INTERSECTION OF HURONTARIO & EGLINTON IN MISSISSAUGA ONTARIO, WHERE ONE OF THE TIRE GOT PUNCTURED (COMPLAINT FILED WITH CITY OF MISSISSAUGA, TRANSPORT CANADA AND PICTURE ATTACHED). I TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC SHOP AND THEY SAID THAT I'LL HAVE TO REPLACE THE TIRE AS THEY COULDN'T FIX THE TIRE BECAUSE THE SIDE WALL WAS DAMAGED. ONCE I GOT BACK TO MICHIGAN I GOT A NEW TIRE AT THE DEALERSHIP AND I ASKED BOTH THE DEALERSHIP AND PIRELLI ABOUT THE QUALITY OF THE TIRES BUT WAS TOLD THIS IS WHAT THE SUPPLIER (PIRELLI) SUGGESTED FOR THE A3. I WAS TOLD AT THE DEALERSHIP THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH THE LOW PROFILE TIRES ON THE AUDI CARS. IF THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE ISSUES THEN THIS SHOULD BE COMMUNICATED BACK TO THE OEM AS WELL AS THE SUPPLIER. THIS IS PART OF THE QUALITY AND SAFETY STANDARDS THAT DEALERSHIP SHOULD BE PROVIDING TO THE CUSTOMERS. WITHIN A YEAR I HAD TO PAY FOR TIRES BECAUSE THE QUALITY IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH TO HANDLE POTHOLES? THE ISSUE HAPPENED IN LOW SPEED FOR ME SO I WAS ABLE TO STEER THE VEHICLE TO SAFETY. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED ON A HIGHWAY, IT COULD HAVE BEEN A DANGEROUS SITUATION. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-17
- VIN: WAUAUGFF4J1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DUE TO CONDENSATION/FOGGING, FRONT HEADLIGHT PROJECTION IS REDUCED TO LESS THAN HALF. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE DRIVING AT NIGHT TIME.
2018 Audi A3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2018 Audi A3.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may malfunction and switch off the passenger air bag even when the seat is occupied.
- Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Audi S3 Sedan, 2015-2019 A3 Sedan and A3 Cabriolet, 2016-2018 A3 e-tron, and 2017-2019 RS3 vehicles. An improper electrical contact may cause the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) to falsely detect a malfunction and deactivate the passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the connector and reroute the cable, free of charge. The recall began September 12, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69Z4.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Audi A3 sedan and RS3 vehicles. The latching pins for the center rear seat head restraint may be missing.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, the head restraint may detach and cause injury to the vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Audi has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the head restraints, replacing any that are missing pins, free of charge. The recall began on March 7, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 72I8.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Audi TT Roadster, TT Coupe, A3 Sedan and A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The fuel hose quick connector may detach from the fuel supply line in the engine bay, resulting in a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the engine compartment can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will secure the fuel line connection, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 11, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20BK.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen e-Golf and Golf R vehicles, and Audi A3 Sedan and RS3 vehicles. The rear seat frame head restraint guide sleeves may be incorrectly welded to the seat frame.
- Consequence: If the guide sleeves are incorrectly welded, in the event of a crash, the rear seat head restraints may have reduced stability, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners, and dealers will inspect the guide sleeves for incorrect welds, replacing the rear seat frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 28, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 72H8 (VW) and 72H9(Audi).
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Audi A3 Cabriolet and A3 Sedan vehicles. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) software may misinterpret the flywheel rotation on engine start-up as a "knocking" condition, and the adjusted air/fuel mixture may result in an engine stall.
- Consequence: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the ECU software, free of charge. The recall began September 19, 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 24DF.
Negative 2018 Audi A3 car reviews
Positive 2018 Audi A3 car reviews
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I've had BMWs, Audis (I even did a brief stint in a Honda Accord, yuck), but I found the A3 to be the most likable. Although I loved my A4 and S4, due to my older age, I needed something brand new that didn't sacrifice acceleration or comfort. The A3 is noticeably smaller than the A4 of today, but it's the same size as the A4 of previous generations. My wife and I fit up front perfectly and comfortably, and my 100lb lab fits in the back with plenty of trunk space. What attracts me to the A3 is the fact that it still feels almost as fast as my B8 S4, with fuel economy that doesn't hurt the wallet. The only downside is getting black, as it shows dirt easily. I urge everyone to take a test drive. It's a great commuter car and fantastic for weekend trips to the country, especially with the wonderful panoramic sunroof. Skip the nav, your iPhone can do everything anyway. Do get an upgraded stereo. I have the basic Audi Concert and it's not great when I want to jam. I have it turned almost 85-90. Get Bose or B&O.
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This car is a great choice if you're looking for good handling, performance, an upscale feel and look, and good fuel economy on regular gas. Both the quattro and FWD models have plenty of power, so you can't go wrong with either option.
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This is my first Audi and I am absolutely loving it! I previously owned a VW Polo which I adored, but this Audi is even better. The ride is smoother and more powerful, with a better transmission. While maneuvering, I did have some concerns about the transmission, especially when shifting from Reverse to Drive. However, after a while, I got used to it and found that waiting 3 seconds before shifting prevented any issues. Surprisingly, I haven't seen anyone else mention this in previous reviews. Despite what others have said about the back seat, I have a 19-month-old baby who loves riding with the top down. While space is limited, it's perfect for shorter trips and larger cars can be used for longer journeys. The quality of the materials is superb and everything is easy to use and perfectly located. Driving on back roads is an awesome and relaxing experience. The short wheelbase, powerful engine, and excellent suspension make it feel like you're driving a Formula 1 car. I've had the car for 2 years now and I'm still loving everything about it!
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This is an impressive luxury car. The car handles and rides extremely well, going exactly where you point it. The ride is smooth and very quiet. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather seats feel amazing. Although the sound system and infotainment system are excellent, they may take some time to get familiar with. I am not a fan of the engine start/stop system, but I am glad that it can be turned off. Overall, this is a great compact luxury car that I look forward to driving every day and admiring after I park it.
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I recently switched from a cabriolet A5 2014 to the A3, and I must say, I am pleasantly surprised. Although there are some compromises, such as the uncomfortable back seats for adult passengers and the slower convertible top, the advantages of the A3 are numerous. The interior is years ahead of the A5, and I was lucky enough to get one with keyless entry, virtual cockpit, heated seats, full black leather, and quite a few other niceties that my A5 lacked. The front wheel drive 2.0 turbo is rated at 170something lbs, but it drives faster than my previous A5! The automatic transmission is finally right on time, and the electronics are just perfect. Overall, I am very satisfied with my purchase, and the only thing I would change is the missing Quattro. Next time, I will make sure to go with a Quattro again. Way to go, Audi! This is a superb car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Audi A3 problems:
2018 Audi A3 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 Audi A3? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Audi A3 common problems (2012-2020) | Haynes Publishing
These include noisy front suspension, a grinding sound from the steering and air-conditioning that is prone to the odd failure. But while Audi garages might ...
2018 Audi A3 Reliability : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Jan 31, 2023 ... This is not a performance audi and its not an A7 with all the advanced electronics. This is a good thing as there are less things to fail in the ...
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Feb 1, 2024 ... Audi A3 Reliability and Common Problems · Start-Stop System Malfunction · Misfiring Engine · Defective Fuel Tank Suction Pump · Faulty Airbags.
Audi A3 Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Top Audi A3 Problems · Lack of power due to throttle system fault · Ignition Coils May Fail · Check Engine Light and/or Hesitation Due to Failed High Pressure Fuel ...
Other years of Audi A3
Are you having problems with your 2018 Audi A3?
Kenton Reichert 2025-08-13
I'm a huge fan of Audi and it's the only car I drive. When I purchased this car, I was thrilled because it was beautiful and a great deal. However, I must admit that the car has some major flaws. Although you wouldn't expect it, there are blind spots in this car that can be quite dangerous. The side mirrors were designed to look sleek and sporty, but they're so small that you can't see much at all. To solve this issue, I purchased stick-on blind spot mirrors, which have been helpful. Anyone who drives my car has the same complaint. Additionally, the wipers don't move fast enough in the rain, which can be frustrating. There have been times when I've had to pull over because I couldn't see in a normal rainstorm. I never had this problem with my previous Audis. Within the first year, the car broke down three times and had to be taken back to Audi for repairs. The turbo leaked into the engine, a pipe started disintegrating, and a spark plug clogged - all within the first year. I leased the car, so Audi fixed it for free, but the fact that these many problems occurred when the car was brand new was concerning. Despite these issues, the car drives very well and gets decent mpg. I mostly drive on the highway to work each day, and the mpg ranges from 30-33. The entertainment system and climate control are also great. Overall, I'm sad to say that I wouldn't recommend this car, which is heartbreaking because I love Audi so much.
Jamal Flatley 2025-03-09
Within just 3 months of owning the car, I experienced issues with the Bluetooth/Apple Carplay, key fob recognition, uncomfortable seats, and start/stop system. Despite these challenges, I am grateful that I am leasing this vehicle and not buying. While the dealer has been unable to replicate the issues, they have provided software updates to address them. I remain confident in my decision to lease this Audi and look forward to continued enjoyment of the vehicle.
Erling Hodkiewicz 2025-02-24
I really like the look and handling of this car. I've had the S-Line Premium Plus for almost 5 years now and it has served me well. Although there were a few recalls on the passenger airbag, Audi took care of them free of charge, which was great. As some other reviews have mentioned, the shift can be a bit jerky, especially when the car is cold or the AC is on. However, when accelerating, the shift is very smooth. I have run into some maintenance issues recently, such as the water pump and thermostat needing to be replaced. It's important to be aware of this issue if you're considering buying a used A3. Overall, I would give this car a 4-star rating because I enjoy driving it and I like the looks of the S Line. I hope this review helps someone who is researching the vehicle. Update July 2023: Unfortunately, the mechatronics unit on the gearbox failed at about 76k miles, which was a major disappointment. Although the dealer tried to get some warranty from Audi USA, they wouldn't agree to cover any of the cost. This experience has made me less of a fan of Audi, so I'm reducing my rating to 3 stars.
Marquis Hammes 2024-09-26
I was disappointed to find out that my 2018 Audi A3 Quattro convertible did not come with a spare or a donut. I was not informed of this during the sales pitch, and unfortunately, I had two unrepairable flat tires in less than 18 months. This caused me some inconvenience as I had to buy new tires each time. I am currently in a dispute with the Audi dealer that sold me the car for not disclosing this information. I have owned several cars in the past, including a Fiat, a Capri, a previous Audi, several Mazdas, and several Toyotas, and all of them came with full-size spares or usable donuts. I hope that this issue can be resolved soon. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Alfred Schulist 2024-08-26
I love the look of this car and it handles fantastic at highway speed. However, I have had some issues with it since the day I drove it off the lot 2 years ago. Unfortunately, I am about to trade it in for a different German make. I have found that this car is not meant to be driven in the city as the ride on bumpy city streets can be quite rough and the interior rattles as a result. This has been frustrating for me and not what I expected from a luxury vehicle. I have to turn the radio up to drown out the noise. Additionally, the moon roof area squeaks and rattles after every rain, which is quite annoying. When the engine is cold, the transmission shifts into gear really hard, which has been uncomfortable. Audi could never explain this to me. One of my vents would blow ice cold while the others blew hot, which was inconvenient. Sometimes I had to turn the temperature all the way up to get any heat at all. Finally, I had some issues with the dealership service department at multiple locations, but they did their best to help me troubleshoot the problems.