2015 Audi S3 problems
The Audi S3 is a hot hatch version of the Audi A3 small family car, produced by German automaker Audi since 1999. S3 variants of both the first- and second-generation Audi A3 have been produced.
Like all Audi S models, it is only available with quattro four-wheel drive system.
First generation (Typ 8L, 1999-2003)
Overview
The first generation S3 is built on the same A platform of the Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf Mk4, Audi TT, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia.
The straight-4 20v 1.8 L turbocharged petrol engine comes in two versions of power output: 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) and 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). Early models (1999–2001) had 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) which is said to be a de-tuned Audi TT engine, and was said to be reduced to lessen brand competition with the more powerful TT. Later models (2001–2003) had variable valve timing and 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). The engine provides a maximum 280 N⋅m (210 ft⋅lbf) of torque, most of which is available from 2200 through to 5500 rpm. This is the first time a small five-valve engine has been used in an Audi S-series car..
Although dubbed "quattro", the S3 uses a different "on-demand" four-wheel drive system. The Haldex Traction coupling adjusts the bias of torque distribution from the front to rear axle as grip requirements change - most of the time it operates as a front-wheel drive.
The S3 was sold in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, but was not officially marketed in the United States.
The S3 was facelifted in 2000, where it was given one-piece headlights/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters, and some minor upgrades to interior trim. There had been minor changes to the design previous to this, including digital clock on the dash.
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Common 2015 Audi S3 problems
The Audi S3, particularly the 2015 model, is known for several common problems that owners have reported
. Here are some of the issues in detail:
- Water Pump Issues: The water pump is a critical component of the car's cooling system. In the 2015 Audi S3, the water pump can cause problems such as leaks, noises, low coolant levels, overheating, or even steam. The root cause of these issues can be bad seals around the water pump, which can crack over time. Additionally, using the wrong coolant in the car can also contribute to these problems. When repairing the water pump, it is recommended to avoid reinforcing it with too many seals or coils, as this does not help and can even make the problem worse .
- Faults with Fuel System, Climate Control System, and Engine Computer: Some 2015 Audi S3 owners have reported issues with the car's fuel system, climate control system, and engine computer. Oil leaks are also a common problem in this model. These issues can result in poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure in extreme cases. Regular maintenance and preventive measures, such as changing the oil filter and spark plugs at recommended intervals, can help avoid these problems.
- Rattling from the Centre Console Area: Some owners have reported rattling noises from the centre console area, mainly from the trim surrounding the gearlever and the boot locking mechanism. This issue is more of an annoyance than a severe problem, but it can affect the overall driving experience. Checking for any loose components and ensuring that all electrical items on the car work as they should can help avoid this problem.
- Sat-Nav Screen Issues: The sat-nav screen, which rises out of the dashboard, can creak in use, causing discomfort and distraction to the driver. This issue is more of an inconvenience than a severe problem, but it can affect the overall driving experience. Checking the sat-nav screen for any signs of wear and tear and ensuring that it works correctly can help avoid this problem.
- Fuel Pump Cam Follower Wearing: The fuel pump cam follower can wear out over time, causing the car to experience issues with fuel delivery. This issue can result in poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure in extreme cases. Regular maintenance and preventive measures, such as changing the fuel filter and spark plugs at recommended intervals, can help avoid this problem.
- Oil Breather Valve Sticking: The oil breather valve can stick, causing the car to experience issues with oil flow. This issue can result in poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure in extreme cases. Regular maintenance and preventive measures, such as changing the oil and oil filter at recommended intervals, can help avoid this problem.
- Manual Gearbox Problems: Some 2015 Audi S3 owners have reported issues with the manual gearbox, such as rattling noises and difficulty shifting gears. These issues can result in poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure in extreme cases. Regular maintenance and preventive measures, such as changing the gearbox oil and filters at recommended intervals, can help avoid this problem.
- Problems with Brake Pads and Discs: The brake pads and discs can erode with heavy use, causing the car to experience issues with braking. This issue can result in poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even safety risks in extreme cases. Regular maintenance and preventive measures, such as changing the brake pads and discs at recommended intervals, can help avoid this problem.
In summary, the 2015 Audi S3 is a reliable car if it is maintained correctly. However, several common problems have been reported by owners, including water pump issues, faults with the fuel system, climate control system, and engine computer, rattling from the centre console area, sat-nav screen issues, fuel pump cam follower wearing, oil breather valve sticking, manual gearbox problems, and problems with brake pads and discs. Regular maintenance and preventive measures can help avoid these problems and ensure that the car performs at its best.
Is the Audi S3 2015 reliable?
Not the most reliable car but it is the most fun.
It is very fun to drive and after the expensive maintenance it will be a blast driving.
How many miles can a Audi S3 last?
How long do Audis last? There are a lot of factors that can impact the lifespan of your car. If properly maintained, Audis can last for 10-13 years or as high as 20 years and can run about 1500,000-200,000 miles.
Is it worth it to buy an Audi S3?
Conclusion: it's a great starter performance car. On the road, where your surroundings don't sap speed quite like they do on track, it feels livelier. My other half, Sophie, took the wheel a fair few times and she always remarked on how much she liked driving it.
Is an Audi S3 expensive to run?
Running costs are reasonable, but what makes the Audi S3 really attractive financially is its reputation for slow depreciation. Offers from our trusted partners on this car and its predecessors...
Is the Audi S3 2015 reliable?
Not the most reliable car but it is the most fun.
It is very fun to drive and after the expensive maintenance it will be a blast driving.
Is the 2015 Audi A3 reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2015 Audi A3? The 2015 Audi A3 has a poor reliability rating of two out of five from J.D. Power. It's the lowest rating a vehicle can receive from J.D. Power. Along with the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class , the A3 has the worst rating in the class.
Is it worth it to buy an Audi S3?
Conclusion: it's a great starter performance car. On the road, where your surroundings don't sap speed quite like they do on track, it feels livelier. My other half, Sophie, took the wheel a fair few times and she always remarked on how much she liked driving it.
Is an Audi S3 a good daily?
The Audi S3 managed to come with all the luxury and performance you need. However, the S3 Sedan also includes enough practicality to seamlessly use the car as your daily driver. This makes it the perfect daily driver for gearheads that are looking for the best of both worlds.
2015 Audi S3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi S3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2015 Audi S3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2015 Audi S3
The NHTSA has received 47 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Audi S3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2015 Audi S3 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- VIN: WAUBFGFF8F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: When driving, without AND more importantly, WITH, a passenger in the front passenger seat, the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) light goes on and indicates that the passenger air bag has been deactivated. I looked on line and saw that Audi has already recalled certain 2015-2019 Audi A3 Sedans but apparently my car is not part of the initial recall. I think the recall is BIGGER than Audi estimated and that my car should also be part of the recall. I plan to take to Audi to repair.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: WAUBFGFF7F1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: While pumping gas, a strong odor is always present. While pumping gas the pump will stop multiple times before being filled in it's entirety, I can't hold depress gas pump handle I have to slowly fill car with gas or risk spilling fuel.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-09
- VIN: WAUBFGFF4F1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The EVAP suction pump stopped working resulting in refueling issues. Fuel accumulates in the EVAP system and spills outside the vehicle
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
- VIN: WAUBFGFF7F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have had a passenger airbag recall since 2021, and I have tried to schedule the maintenance for that recall several times, but each of the 5 times that I’ve tried, the Audi dealership (in Glenwood Springs, CO) says they don’t have the parts in stock. Each time that happens, I’m told I’ve been put on the list for the next parts shipment. I am so tired of waiting, while in the meantime, my passengers are considered unsafe in this vehicle. I need to have this repaired soon, please. Thank you.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-17
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WAUBFGFF2F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I got into an accident and my air bags didn’t deploy
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-14
- VIN: WAUBFGFF4F1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel tanks suction pump fails and will not allow you to fill the tank with gas. It will fill a vary small amount of gas then start draining it out onto the ground by the wheel well. If the exhaust is hot it could potentially catch fire
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-15
- VIN: WAUFFGFF4F1
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Defroster flap motor keeps going out with code. Been looking up ways to fix and seems like it is a problem a lot of owners have with the 8v vehicles. Cannot see at all through windshield even with max defrost on. Can feel no air through vents.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-22
- VIN: WAUBFGFF5F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 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 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: 2022-09-02
- VIN: waubfgff2f1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: A recall for my car's PODS system has been in place since March of 2021 but Audi continues to inform me that the part is not available to fix the recall. It has been a year and a half since the recall and the passenger airbag in my car continues to turn on and off randomly. I feel that it's completely unacceptable to have to wait this long for a fix. I just spoke with my dealership today (Audi of Westwood, Massachusetts) and they again informed me that there are no parts available to complete the repair. I find this unacceptable and am filing this complaint.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-02
- VIN: WAUBFGFF3F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I had scheduled with the dealership to have the PODS recall fix completed. While waiting for the scheduled date my vehicle began showing symptoms described in the recall and they were sporadic just as described in the recall and only lasted a few seconds. The dealer called and cancelled my appointment as there are no parts available and they do not know when the recall parts will become available again. Then in early August things got worse than described in the recall campaign. Now I get the same Audi pre sense error on the dash when starting the vehicle and the airbag is disabled. The front passenger airbag has been disabled since early August and is never enabled if there is a passenger or not. I called dealer and was still told that they do not know when parts will be available. Called Audi and was told the same information as in the recall to read the owner manual and avoid the front passenger seat. There is no way to use the front passenger seat safely as the airbags are disabled and no one can tell me when I may be able to get it fixed. For my family we need to use every seat in the car so there is no way to not have someone in the front passenger seat. I would like Audi to fix the issue or at the least give a date of when it would be able to fix the vehicle. I need Audi to respond so that I know if I need to make decision to sell the vehicle for my families safety.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-16
- VIN: Waubfgff7f1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Fault water pump/thermostat causing overheating and breakdowns. Known issue in other models with the same motor, yet no recall issued for the A3/S3 models with the 2.0 motor
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
- VIN: waubfgff1f1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: Audi has had a safety recall on this vehicle since I purchased the car in June 2019. In 2019 and early 2020, there were no issues. About two years into owning the vehicle, I started experiencing faults, error codes, and safety lights on my dash due to issues with the passenger seat air bag. I brought the vehicle to Audi Burlington in MA and they said that the issues I was having was due to the recall but there was no fix. In January of 2022, I received a letter saying that there was fix for the recall. I called to schedule an appointment and they were booked 6 months out due to part availability. I made my appointment for June 6th, first available. A few weeks before my appointment, I received a letter saying Audi of America was stopping the fix due to part availability and not to bring my car in to my appointment. This recall is preventing me from passing state inspection and is a safety issue for any passengers in the car.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-01
- VIN: wauffgff5f1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact's husband owns a 2015 Audi S3. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, an abnormal beeping sound would emit from the passenger’s side occupant detection system while the passenger’s side seat was vacant. The passenger’s side air bag warning light would remain illuminated at start-up. The contact stated that she would either buckle the seat belt or place a heavy object in the passenger’s seat to stop the beeping. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed her that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the part was not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-13
- VIN: WAUBFGFF3F1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tire size is 225/40R18XL Driving east on US Highway 64 from Washington, NC to Raleigh, NC the low pressure alarm for passenger rear tire went off. 15-20 minutes later the tire blew out. We stopped to change to our spare and found that the inner side wall was blown out. This is the second tire in two months to do this.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-11
- VIN: WAUBFGFF7F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Audi issued a recall in March 2020. Seven months later, they still say that they have no solution. This is a major passenger safety issue and could result in serious injury or death. Seven months with no solution should not be accepted by NHTSA and we request that you take further enforcement action with Audi to achieve a fix quickly. They do not appear to feel pressure to act and issuing a recall without then rapidly achieving and implementing a fix makes a mockery of the NHTSA recall process.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-21
- VIN: WAUBFGFF0F1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The component that malfunctioned was with the electrical system. It was the Shift Lever Microswitch. It is not available for inspection because the car has been repaired. 2. How was the safety or safety of others put at risk? There was a build-up of silicate on the Shift Lever Micro Switch contacts. This build up may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "P” Park position. My safety and the safety of any passengers was at risk because if the ignition key is removed without the shift lever being in "P" Park position, there is a risk that the vehicle may roll away, resulting in a crash that could injure people and damage property. I believe this may make the vehicle noncompliant with FMVSS 114; Theft protection and rollaway prevention. PLEASE NOTE VOLKWAGEN OF AMERICA RECALLED APPROXIMATELY 679,000 CARS FOR THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM (NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V615000, VOLKSWAGEN RECALL CODE 37M2.) 3 . Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The problem was confirmed and diagnosed by the dealer, Audi Buffalo. 4.Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance r representatives or others? The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than the dealer. The dealer notified the manufacturer, Audi of America. 5.Was there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptons of the problem prior to the failure and when did they first appear? Prior to the malfunction, a message was displaying in the instrument cluster that said “Vehicle Electrics Malfunction, Shift to P before leaving car, contact Service. This started to display in May, 2021. It did not display all the time, just occasionally.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-01
- VIN: WAUBFGFF7F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Audi S3. The contact stated while his wife was driving 50 MPH, the airbag warning light and the seat belt warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) however, the dealer informed the contact that the part for 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 manufacturer was notified of the failure but provide no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-12
- VIN: Waubfgff9f1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger side air bag light came on and off even with not passenger on the vehicle PODS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-16
- VIN: WAUBFGFF0F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger Air bag light that indicates it is OFF and pre sense safety system failure . This has been occurring for years on my 2015 A3 . How long does the manufacture have to repair said problem ?
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-09
- VIN: WAUBFGFFXF1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Per dealer repair: GUEST STATES DISPLAY SHOWED ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THEN SEAT BELT STATED STO SHOW ON DISPLAY, DISPLAY SHOWED PUT CAR IN PARK AFTER TURNED OFF CAR THEN RESTARTED ALL LIGHTS WENT AWAY. CHECK AND ADVISE Comments: fault is for a micro switch inside shift mechanism that is sporadically failing. the complete shift mechanism needs replacement. when micro switch completely fails the shifter may not come out of park. I was also informed verbally that the shifter may malfunction while operational and shift out of gear. Total cost of the repair was approx $2,500.00. The screen shot attached included other repairs
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-01
- VIN: WAUBFGFF2F1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AUDI AS ISSUED TSB #2043968/1 FOR ELECTRICAL ISSUES IN REAR TRUNK. THE WIRING HARNESS CAN BREAK WHEN TRUNK LID IS OPENED OR CLOSED, CAUSING IT TO PINCH AND SEVERE WIRES. CAUSING THE REAR LIGHTS TO MALFUNCTION FLASHERS NOT WORKING BRAKE LIGHTS NOT WORKING, REVERSE LIGHTS NOT WORKING. THIS TSB COVERS EVERY VIN FOR 2015-2016. THEY NOW WANT TO CHARGE $1,000 TO FIX A DEFECT THEY KNEW ABOUT, THIS SHOUL BE BE A RECALL.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-10
- VIN: WAUBFGFF1F1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER SEAT AIRBAG SENSOR IS FAULTY. I SEE EVERYONE ELSE HAS THE SAME ISSUE BUT WHEN I TYPE IN MY VIN IT SAYS IT IS NOT RECALLED? THEY WANTED $1000 TO FIX IT BUT IT ISN'T MY FAULT AND I HOPE TO SEE THEM OWN UP TO THEIR MISTAKE AND FIX OUR AIRBAGS. ONLINE IT SAYS MY VEHICLE SHOULD BE COVERED AND FIXED FOR FREE BUT WHEN I CHECKED THEIR SITE 2015 AUDI S3 ISN'T COVERED, HOWEVER, ON THIS SITE, IT WILL SAY IT IS BUT WHEN I TYPE IN VIN NOTHING.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-01
- VIN: WAUBFGFF9F1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I GOT A PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF PROBLEM ON THE SECOND YEAR, AND KEEP GOING BACK TO DEALERSHIP TO CHECK THE PROBLEM UNTIL I GOT A RECALL NOTICE. AFTER HAVING THE PASSENGER AIRBAG SENSOR REPAIRED RECALL, THE CAR STILL COMES UP THE SAME PROBLEM PLUS THE PASSENGER SEATBELT OFF LIGHT UP. THE AUDI DEALERSHIP NOW TELL ME THAT THE PODS SENSOR IS FAULTY AND LET ME PAY FOR ITS SAFETY PROBLEMS. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT HAVE IT DONE WITH MY CAR AFTER RECALL, AND I FEEL REALLY DISAPPOINTED WITH AUDI RIGHT NOW.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-30
- VIN: WAUFFGFF8F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: REGARDING: NHTSA CAMPAIGN# 19V474000 RECALL# 69Z4 VEHICLE WAS TAKING INTO AUDI DEALERSHIP IN CUYAHOGA FALLS OH AND COMPLETED THE SAFETY RECALL FIX. 11 MONTHS LATER, THE PODS SYSTEM INDICATED ANOTHER CIRCUIT FAILURE. TAKE BACK INTO SAME DEALERSHIP AND CONFIRMED SAME SAFETY RECALL FAILURE. WOULD NOT HONOR THE 12MTH/12K WARRANTY AS I WAS ABOUT 5K MILES PAST. THEY WANT ABOUT $700 TO FIX. I AM DECIDING NOT TO HAVE THEM FIX IT. I HAVE HEARD THIS PROBLEM KEEPS HAPPENING. SO RIGHT NOW I HAVE NO PASSENGER AIR BAGS AND LOOKING FOR A WAY TO BYPASS THE PODS CIRCUIT TO STAY ON ALWAYS I GUESS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-26
- VIN: WAUBFGFF8F1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAD THE PODS RECALL 19V47400 DONE AND NOTICED ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON SAYING AUDI PRE SENSE SYSTEM FAULT, AND SAFETY SYSTEM: SYSTEM FAULT, WHERE THE PASSENGER SEAT WILL THINK SOMEONE IS IN IT AND THEN WHEN SOMEONE IS IN IT, THE AIRBAG WILL STAY OFF AND OCCASIONALLY COME ON BUT TURN BACK OFF QUICKLY AFTER, ALL WHILE THE AIRBAG LIGHT AND ERRORS STAY ON THE DASH
2015 Audi S3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2015 Audi S3.
- 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.
Positive 2015 Audi S3 car reviews
Additional sources
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Are you having problems with your 2015 Audi S3?
Devin Balistreri 2024-11-29
It all starts under the hood! We have a heavily modified version of the A3's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, boasting an impressive 292 horsepower. That's an increase of 72 hp over the A3! This power is applied to all four wheels through a standard six-speed automated manual transmission. According to Audi, this transmission is good enough to fire you off to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds!
Garrison Cremin 2024-11-12
The car is easy to drive and own. With nearly 90k miles on mine, I have very few complaints. Even with all the modifications I've made, the base car still has all the goodness, and the A3 Quattro with the s-line package is just as good. It would be great if it was available with a manual transmission and without a sunroof that impinges for tall occupants. The car is fast, handles well, and looks good. Even the stock brakes perform surprisingly well on the race track. However, it is disappointing that there is no homelink in a car this expensive. Additionally, there is some kind of annoying suspension rattle in the front that is common and hard to pin down. It doesn't affect driving but can be annoying. The common vent director motor failure is also a minor issue to replace but can be annoying (center vents stopped working). As a racer, and despite many mods, the handling is resolutely understeer at the limit unless you suddenly lift off. It's not slow, but there isn't a lot of joy at the race track unless you do minor mods and go drag racing instead of road racing, in which case it's an easy 11-second car.
Crawford Robel 2024-06-06
Buying this vehicle was a bit of a challenge for me as I already had two cars, an older BMW M3 that I used as a 'summer toy' and a daily driver sedan for winter and family trips. However, I needed a car that could be used all year round and could fit my young boys in the back seat if needed. I'm a big driving enthusiast and this car is really great. I compared it to Audi's S4, Mercedes C450/C43, BMW 340i, and a few others, but this little machine spoke to me. It is a very nimble and well-balanced car with plenty of power. The car has all the options I wanted, except for the RS seats which are not power-operated, and I like that I got a loaded one. The powertrain, brakes, magnetic dampers, dual-clutch transmission, selectable driving profiles, advanced safety/technology features really make this car a blast to drive. The LED headlights are amazing, and the adaptive cruise control is awesome. Highly recommend that option (part of the tech package). The infotainment system is not bad, but there are better systems out there. However, the Bang & Olafsen stereo sounds fantastic. If you are a large person or have teenagers, need a large trunk, this car may not be for you. I'm 5'10I'm excited about the many fun years ahead with this little rocket!
Luis Kertzmann 2024-05-13
This is a fun, practical, fast, sporty, and good-looking vehicle. I am always thrilled to drive it. It is totally engaging and the best possible sedan for a driver anywhere near this price range.
Greyson Toy 2024-04-29
This is a high-quality German-engineered rocketship that some people may mistake for a small, sexy sedan. It's more powerful and fun to drive than my 2001 911. It can also be driven conservatively. I would definitely buy this car again and again.