2016 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 2016 Audi S3 problems
The Audi S3 2016 has been reported to have some common problems by its owners. Here are some of the issues and their details:
- Enthusiastic Driving Problems: The Audi S3 2016 is known to be driven enthusiastically, which can lead to a list of problems, including accelerated lifespan of components such as tires, braking pads, braking calipers, and engine failure. To avoid these problems, it is recommended to avoid adopting the wrong driving mode or style in the wrong place, and to maintain the car properly with regular oil changes, oil filter changes, spark plug changes, and gearbox oil changes .
- Rattling from the Centre Console Area: Some owners have reported rattling from the centre console area, mainly from the trim surrounding the gearlever, and from the boot locking mechanism. Additionally, there have been reported problems with the sat-nav screen, which rises out of the dashboard and can creak in use.
- Fuel Pump Cam Follower Wearing: Issues with the fuel pump cam follower wearing have also been reported in the Audi S3 2016. The oil breather valve can also stick, and there can be rattling from the manual gearbox. It is recommended to check the condition of the brake pads and discs, as these can erode with heavy use.
- Manual Gearbox Problems: Some of the manual gearbox problems in the Audi S3 2016 include rattling and coolant leaks on earlier cars, which can knock a couple of points off the reliability score of the car .
It is important to note that the Audi S3 2016 has a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that is designed to trap soot from the exhaust and burn it off later. If the DPF light comes on, the vehicle must be taken on a longer drive at a higher speed to clear the filter. Additionally, vehicles produced between 30 June 2014 and 15 November 2014 had to have their passenger-side airbag module replaced due to a faulty weld on the gas generator inside. Poor welds attaching the rear headrest to the rear backrest of some A3s manufactured between 20 May 2018 and 2 September 2018 also posed a safety issue, and affected cars had to have the whole backrest replaced.
Despite these issues, the Audi S3 2016 has been rated poorly for headlight bulb failure and has been reported to have issues with the sat-nav screen. However, it has been found to be generally more reliable than the rival 2018-present Mercedes A-Class, but not as reliable as the 2011-2019 BMW 1 Series.
In conclusion, while the Audi S3 2016 has some common problems, it is important to maintain the car properly and be aware of these issues when purchasing or owning one. With proper maintenance and care, the Audi S3 2016 can be a reliable and enjoyable car to own.
What is the common engine problem in the Audi S3?
Engine-Related Issues
Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, which can lead to more frequent top-ups and potential long-term engine damage if not monitored.
How many miles can an S3 last?
Any modern mass-produced car should be good for 200k with the correct, regular servicing. However the S3 has more to go wrong than most - plenty of technology, turbo'd and 4wd. When was the cambelt replaced? Audi say 80k, but most recommend 60k, so you could be looking at you next cambelt service imminently.
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.
What to know about 2016 Audi S3?
The 2016 Audi S3 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 292 hp and 280 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive and a six-speed automated manual transmission (called S tronic) are standard. With nearly 300 horsepower available, the 2016 Audi S3 excels at quick getaways.
What is the common engine problem in the Audi S3?
Engine-Related Issues
Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, which can lead to more frequent top-ups and potential long-term engine damage if not monitored.
What to know about 2016 Audi S3?
The 2016 Audi S3 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 292 hp and 280 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive and a six-speed automated manual transmission (called S tronic) are standard. With nearly 300 horsepower available, the 2016 Audi S3 excels at quick getaways.
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 Audi S3 2017 reliable?
Nonetheless, the 2013-2020 A3 (and subsequently S3) is generally more reliable than the rival 2018-present Mercedes A-Class, but not as reliable as the 2011-2019 BMW 1 Series. As a car brand, Audi ranked 26th out of 32 a manufacturers, which is poor.
2016 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
- Seats problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Back over prevention problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Audi S3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2016 Audi S3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Audi S3.
AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-22
- VIN: WAUB1GFF8G1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Received notice for safety recall to have PODs system repaired or replaced free of charge by Audi. Took my vehicle in for the recall. Audi wanted to charge me to complete this safety recall and refused to complete the recall if I didn't pay. This was bluegrass motorsports in Louisville ky. They also damaged my vehicles door trim and stole money from my glove box(my fault for leaving money inside). Filed a complaint on the dealers website and was never reached out to. This is why safety recall remains open on my vehicle.
AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-08
- VIN: WAUB1GFF9G1
- Components: AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Where do I start? We have taken this car into the Audi dealership four times due to the engine. Overheating and being almost stranded in the middle of nowhere with it because oil was needing to be added to the engine all the time and after charging us hundreds and hundreds of dollars to do to plug in Their service computer system they finally realized that the car third high-pressure fuel pump leaking was leaking fuel into the crank case causing a hard start and fuel trim codes we spent and this is just the warrants $911.67 another time my husband was backing out of our brand, new home and This car did not sense that he was too close and essentially the front right part of his tire where the tire is doc Benton and he ruined the right side of our garage and these are just one of the 20 issues that have been always going to the RV dealership and I really think that it’s time for some reimbursement. My husband won’t go and do anything about it because he used to work at the dealership but I’m sick of it and we’ve been charged hundreds and hundreds of dollars and then they finally just fixed. They finally just found the problem there that’s an issue and it’s a safety issue to because when I was driving down the highway all the sudden the over the engine overheated and that wasn’t on that was on several occasions, we brought it into the Audi dealership. They couldn’t find anything wrong with it Several please call me back or contact my husband who owns a car I’m getting sick of this. I think they also replaced the water pump as well.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-31
- VIN: WAUB1GFF2G1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1. PASSENGER AIRBAG HAS BEEN OFF FOR 2 WEEKS. 2. oN THE iNFORMATION SCREEN THERE HAS BEEN A SYSTEM MALFUNCTION EVER SINCE. 3. CAR HAS BEEN TAKEN FOR REPAIR TO DEALERSHIP FOR 3 TIMES AND THE ISSUE KEEPS COMING BACK.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
- VIN: WAUB1GFF0G1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: CAR HAD NO ISSUES PRIOR TO RECALL 69Z4. AFTER AUDI DEALERSHIP PERFORMED WORK TO SATISFY RECALL 69Z4 (NHTSA 19V474), THE AFFECTED SYSTEM (PODS) NOW DOES NOT FUNCTION AT ALL. THIS RENDERS THE PASSENGER SEAT AIRBAG INOPERABLE REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT IS OCCUPIED. AUDI WILL NOT COVER THE ADDITIONAL REPAIR TO THE SYSTEM THAT WAS PERFECTLY FUNCTIONAL UNTIL THEIR RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED. THIS APPEARS TO BE A WIDESPREAD ISSUE AFFECTING SIMILAR A3/S3 MODEL YEARS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-11
- VIN: WAUB1GFFXG1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: POD WHICH CONTROLS THE PASSENGER AIR BAG
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-30
- VIN: WAUB1GFF7G1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG ISSUE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. A RECALL WAS DONE IN DECEMBER 2019 AND THE ISSUE PERSISTED AND NOW THE DEALER WANTS MORE THAN $1,300 TO FIX THE ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-28
- VIN: WAUB1GFF8G1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AFTER BRINGING IN MY VEHICLE FOR SERVICE, THE DEALER INFORMED ME OF A NECESSARY RECALL REPAIR THAT WOULD PREVENT POTENTIAL PASSENGER AIRBAG FAILURE. I AUTHORIZED THE REPAIR, ALTHOUGH I HAD NOT ENCOUNTERED ANY ISSUES PRIOR. HOWEVER ABOUT A MONTH AFTER THE REPAIR, I BEGAN TO RECEIVE A FLASHING WARNING ON THE DASH WHILE DRIVING AND SOMETIMES IMMEDIATELY AFTER STARTING THE CAR WHILE STATIONARY WHICH READ "SAFETY SYSTEM: SYSTEM FAULT! SEE OWNER'S MANUAL", "PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF" AND "AUDI PRE SENSE: SYSTEM FAULT!". I NOW RECEIVE THE WARNING EVERY TIME I START THE VEHICLE. I CONTACTED THE DEALER AND INFORMED THEM OF THE ISSUE. THEY SET AN APPOINTMENT FOR AN INSPECTION AND POSSIBLE REPAIR, HOWEVER UPON INSPECTION THEY FOUND THE REPAIR WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL AND THUS I WOULD BE CHARGED $1700 TO HAVE THE PODS UNIT REPLACED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. AFTER RESEARCHING AND SPEAKING WITH OTHER OWNERS, IT SEEMS THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, AS MANY OTHERS HAVE ENCOUNTERED THE ISSUE, AND THE REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL. THIS IS CLEARLY AN ISSUE WITH AN INAPPROPRIATE/INEFFECTIVE RECALL REPAIR. AUDI MUST FIX THIS ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-25
- VIN: WAUB1GFF4G1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER FRONT AIR BAG SEAT SENSOR WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY YET THE PROBLEM WASN'T FIXED. SEAT WONT DETECT PASSENGER AND PASSENGER AIRBAG WONT DEPLOY BECAUSE OF IT. AUDI SAYS THE WHOLE SENSOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND IS A WEAR AND TEAR PART, WHICH IT IS NOT! THE NHSTSA MUST HOLD AUDI ACCOUNTABLE FOR A FULL FIX NOT A HALF FIX. DO YOUR JOBS!! LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM ITS DANGEROUS!
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-01
- VIN: WAUB1GFFXG1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS INDICATING AIR BAG IS OFF EVEN WHEN PASSENGER SEAT IS OCCUPIED. UNDER WARRANTY SERVICE WAS PERFORMED AND FAILED TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE, WAS TOLD BY DEALER THAT THE REPAIR WOULD BE $1400 DESPITE SAFETY RECALL AND INADEQUATE EFFORT MADE TO REPAIR VEHICLE SAFETY ISSUE UNDER WARRANTY. AUDI OF GRAPEVINE, TEXAS APPEAR TO BE CROOKS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-09
- VIN: WAUF1GFF0G1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: VERY SIMILAR TO THE RECALL FOR THE 2017-2018 AUDI A3, THE ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING AT SLOW SPEEDS SHORTLY AFTER STARTING THE CAR. THE CAR STARTS NORMALLY, SHIFTS INTO GEAR (DRIVE OR REVERSE) ACCELERATES NORMALLY, BEFORE THE ENGINE DIES (RPM GAUGE DROPS TO 0). THE CAR FORCES ME TO PUT IT IN PARK BEFORE STARTING NORMALLY WHEN PUSHING THE START/STOP BUTTON. IT HAS HAPPENED 15+ TIMES IN THE LAST TWO WEEKS. I'VE TAKEN IT TO THE MECHANIC AND NO ERROR CODES APPEAR. WE HAVE TESTED TO SEE IF IT ONLY HAPPENS WHEN THE GAS TANK IS BELOW HALF (WHICH WOULD INDICATE A FUEL PUMP ISSUE) HOWEVER, IT HAS HAPPENED ON A FULL TANK AS WELL. IT IS NOT BAD GAS-- I HAVE FILLED UP AT A VARIETY OF GAS STATIONS SINCE THIS ISSUE BEGAN. THIS IS DANGEROUS AS IT POTENTIALLY COULD HAPPEN IN TRAFFIC, SINCE IT DIES WHILE IN MOTION AND REQUIRES THE CAR TO BE IN PARK BEFORE IT WILL START BACK UP. I'VE SEEN SEVERAL FORUMS ONLINE ABOUT SIMILAR COMPLAINTS AND I'M ESPECIALLY CONCERNED BASED ON THE EXACT SAME RECALL FOR THE 2017-2018 A3.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-03
- VIN: WAUB1GFF2G1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FRONT AIRBAG RECALL WAS JUST COMPLETED BUT THE CAR KEEPS TOGGLING THE FRONT AIRBAGS ON AND OFF WHEN DRIVING. I ALSO GET A MESSAGE THAT SAYS AUDI PRE-SENSE SYSTEM FAULT. PIC ATTACHED.
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-30
- VIN: WAUB1GFF2G1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG KEEPS SHUTTING OFF AND ON WHEN WHILE DRIVING AND WITH A PASSENGER SITTING ON THE SEAT. CAR WAS REPAIRED ONCE BEFORE FOR THE SAME ISSUE BUT THE ISSUE KEEPS SHOWING AGAIN. A RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED RECENTLY FOR THIS ISSUE.
2016 Audi S3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2016 Audi S3.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016 Audi TT Roadster, TT Coupe, S3 Sedan, R8 Coupe, A3 Sedan, A3 Etron, A3 Cabriolet, 2016 Golf Sportwagen, Golf R, Golf GTI, Golf A7, and E Golf vehicles. During air bag deployment, the front passenger air bag may explode or deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in serious injury or death. An improper air bag deployment may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front-passenger air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69DY and 61C1.
- 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.
Negative 2016 Audi S3 car reviews
Positive 2016 Audi S3 car reviews
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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.
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I tried this while looking at the A3 and A4. Although I prefer smaller sedans and would have been content with the A3, the S3 was worth the extra cost for me due to its added acceleration and sport performance. The driving experience between the S3 and A3 is definitely different, with the S3 providing a definite rush due to its extra horsepower. If you enjoy a little 'vroom vroom' while driving, then this car is perfect for you. As of November 2017, I am still loving this car. I took it in for its 25,000 mile service and it is still going strong.
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What a stunning car! It's perfect for everyday use straight out of the box. However, if you're looking for speed, the transmission may not be up to par. My 2009 Ralliart could shift gears much faster than an S3, even though it was tuned. For a luxury sedan under 50k, the transmission was the only downside. Downshifting can take a bit too long, and sometimes I end up blipping two gears because I didn't hit the paddle hard enough. But overall, this is an incredible car for daily use. I wouldn't recommend racing or autocrossing unless you get a TCU tune.
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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 is good enough to fire you off to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds!
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Ultimate value if you want a friendly, fun, luxurious, all-around performance car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Audi S3 problems:
8V Audi S3 reliability and common issues? : r/Audi
Nov 29, 2018 ... There were known issues with the haldex unit in the 2015-2016MY S3s, but I have not heard about any major issues with the facelift versions ( ...
2016 Audi S3, reliable?
Sep 12, 2021 ... Thanks in advance. Reliable...My 2004 Audi A4 1.8t was reliable! Well over 100,000 miles with zero issues. The S3 is ...
Anyone regret buying their S3? Any common issues to be aware of ...
Nov 5, 2019 ... The only real common problem with these cars are low coolant/water pump issues. I did actually get a low coolant warning and had to have the ...
Audi S3: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Audi S3 Common Problems and Solutions · High Revs Cause Engine Hesitation · The Car Doesn't Start In Wet Weather · Poor Running · Overheating Thermostats · Window ...
S3 8V common faults? | Audi-Sport.net
Jun 14, 2017 ... I'm looking at getting an 8V S3, more than likely a 5 door. Just wondering if there's any common problems / problems with certain options ...
Other years of Audi S3
Are you having problems with your 2016 Audi S3?
Connor Willms 2024-04-28
I waited for the motor to be fully broken in before I measured its performance. After 18 months of ownership, I can honestly say that this S3 looks very nice, but it didn't have the acceleration or reliability I was hoping for. Additionally, the magnetic ride is a farce, and I get a banging noise on the rear passenger side strut, which bothers my passengers as well as me. The dealership says they don't hear anything, and this noise is normal, but other forum posters say it's not normal, as they are in the same predicament. Looks like I should have accepted the legal route after all. I think I'm going to have to look at a Lexus for my next purchase. Well, I've had the car for four years now, and after Audi fixed the rear shocks, the noise subsided. I'm happy to say that there have been no further problems. The mileage is about 27Mpg at 75MPH. It would be greater if it had an extra gear (which the 2018s and above have), but I didn't buy it for mileage. Still, it's a fast and fun car, and I can get another 75hp out of the motor with minimum modifications.