2019 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 2019 Audi S3 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2019 Audi S3, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Failure in Enthusiastic Driving: Driving the Audi S3 enthusiastically can accelerate the wear and tear of components, leading to potential engine failure. It is crucial to avoid aggressive driving to prevent costly engine damage.
- Fuel Cuts and Power Loss: Some owners have reported sudden loss of power due to a worn-out fuel pump cam follower. Failure to replace this component can result in damage to the camshaft, emphasizing the importance of prompt action to address this issue.
- Misfiring Engine: The oil breather valve on the front of the cam cover is prone to sticking, causing the engine to misfire. Regular replacement of this valve every 10,000 miles can help prevent misfiring issues.
- Window Malfunction: Plastic clips on the window regulator of the S3 can break easily, leading to window malfunction. Replacing these clips with metal ones can solve the window problem.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: Excessive steering wheel vibration accompanied by knocking or banging noises while turning may indicate a worn-out top strut bearing. Replacing this component can eliminate the vibration issue.
- Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure: Older models of the S3 may experience a black coolant temperature sensor failure, leading to engine power loss. Replacing this sensor with an upgraded green version can help maintain engine performance.
These common problems with the 2019 Audi S3 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle.
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.
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.
How many miles can an Audi S3 last?
Any reason why the S3 should not do well over 200k miles? Any modern mass-produced car should be good for 200k with the correct, regular servicing.
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.
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.
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.
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...
2019 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
The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Audi S3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2019 Audi S3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Audi S3.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-04
- VIN: WAUB1GFF4KA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Audi S3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V198000 (Air Bags) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair; however, the dealer informed the contact that the repair would take two days. The contact took the vehicle back to his residence as the dealer declined to provide him with a rental. The contact later contacted the dealer who informed him that the next service availability date was 03/23/3022. 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. Parts distribution disconnect.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-12
- VIN: WAUB1GFF4KA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 AUDI S3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V474000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. AUDI ARLINGTON (3200 COLUMBIA PIKE, ARLINGTON, VA 22204, (703) 739-7460) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
2019 Audi S3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2019 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.
Negative 2019 Audi S3 car reviews
Positive 2019 Audi S3 car reviews
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I'm really enjoying this car! I didn't expect to like it as much as I do, especially coming from driving a 2012 E93 BMW M3 convertible, which was an excellent car in its own right. I expected to enjoy the S3 after test driving it, but I never imagined that I would like driving it more than the M3. The M3 felt powerful and fast, while the S3 feels quick and nimble. It's difficult to explain, but for me, driving the S3 is more relaxing and controlled at the same time. The S3's steering and brakes are excellent, and I like the power delivery better than the M3's. In S mode, there's no turbo/transmission lag, and D mode is perfect for everyday driving. The Magnetic/Active damping makes the car more comfortable, and it's stiff, but not nearly as harsh as the M3 was. One thing I'm having a slight trouble with is the Bluetooth connection. I'm using it with my Nexus 6P, and streaming music gets muted very shortly after the car starts and Bluetooth gets connected. The music is still streamed, but sound is not coming through the car or the phone. I need to turn off Bluetooth on my phone and turn it back on to fix it. After that, all is well. Also, if I use Waze and Audible through Bluetooth, Waze interrupts the audiobook, but there is no sound coming from Waze, so I know that it was trying to tell me something, but not what it was trying to say.
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I see that you previously owned the 2015 Audi A3. Let me tell you, this car is on a whole other level! It's like a supercar in a sedan. The performance is incredibly powerful, the tech package is very well done, and the interior is truly best in class. You can even drive with the top down without sacrificing comfort. Plus, with all wheel drive, you can enjoy the excitement of this car all year round, while still maintaining 5 Star safety.
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As a car enthusiast, I have purchased 38 cars and counting. I wanted to clarify that the Audi S3 does have a USB port located in the console under the armrest, right next to the Audi connect port. I have owned several BMWs, including 3 and 5 series, a Z4 3.0, and a variety of Benzes ranging from S-Class and G-Wagen to SLK and CLK430, and currently a mint CLS500. Two cars before this purchase, I owned a Porsche Cayman S for 4 years. I have autocrossed, done track days, and been a sports car fan since the late 50s when I first saw Jim Kimberly in his Ferrari win a race. But enough about me, let's talk about the S3. I shopped the M235i and MB GLA45 AMG before making this purchase, and I can confidently say that the S3 is a true entry-level luxury rocket. It has all the tech anyone could want (and probably never use). Mine is a Prestige and has all the driver's assistance goodies, e.g. adaptive cruise, lane assist, blind spot monitoring, Presense braking, etc. These things are truly workable and disconnectable, great for interstate cruising. Now there is also Launch Control, along with 4 driving modes. The sound when in Dynamic or S drive is among the best I've heard. And did I mention this thing really does fly? Audi says 0-60 in 4.7 sec. Motor Trend, C&D say 4.4 sec. One does have to know how to make it launch, but it can be done in several ways. It only has one The B&O audio is fantastic and there are plenty of entertainment sound options available, including Sirius, two SD cards, BT streaming through your phone or iPad, and it all works seamlessly and automatically once hooked up. The MMI system is as noted by many auto magazines, easy to use, and has a really nice interface. In comparison to BMW or Benz interiors, the Audi's interior is much nicer and has more tech features. Additionally, when comparably equipped (to the extent possible), the BMW or Benz will cost $5-8,000 more. It's worth noting that Audi's depreciation is only 53% after 5 years. In summary, if you're in the market for a small luxury road rocket, you must give this car a look. As an update, I've now taken several road trips and have 8200+ miles on the odometer. The car continues to perform brilliantly, with my only gripe being the inability to receive text messages unless iMessage is disabled and Twitter responses being very limited. Other than those two issues, I continue to believe I made the right decision purchasing this wonderful little sedan. Now, after 2 years of ownership and 26k miles, my opinion hasn't changed. For me, this is a fantastic car. It hasn't been to the dealer except for oil changes. I waxed it last night and it still looks new. I love this car! An update requested: My S3 continues to be flawless (I swear). It hasn't been to the dealer for anything since I last reported. It's now due for an oil change/inspection. It continues to perform as new and everything still works as intended. Oh, and I tend to drive it like I stole it... I never leave it at a traffic light! Update 9/9/21: First, a correction noted by “It could be a bit better”. Homelink on my car was an option as I recall. My Prestige model did not include this. But the big news is that it left its home on March 16, 2021. The itch for something different became intolerable. I first got in line for a Ford Bronco, but when the first of many delays hit in the middle of the pandemic, I switched my online order to a Mustang Mach E Premium.I'm glad to hear that you had a great experience with your Audi S3! Despite the expected arrival being delayed until early June, it sounds like the car was well worth the wait. It's impressive that you didn't experience any issues with the car, even after 5 years and 47,000 miles on the odometer. Based on your positive experience, I would definitely recommend an Audi S3 to others. It's great to hear that you're now enjoying a new driving experience with a First Edition Mustang Mach E 4X. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Switching out of my aging (2007) BMW 335 was nerve-wracking, as I've always been a fan of BMWs. However, after settling into my new S3, I'm a solid convert. The handling and agility are tight and inspire confidence, while the acceleration is great, especially for the size of the engine. After taking it out for a spin, it took some effort to convince my friends and family that it was only a four-cylinder engine. Shifting into higher gear at high revs sounds great, but engine noise when daily driving is calm and unobtrusive. The size is perfect for an urban area when you still want to fit people in the backseat. I'm 5'11
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I recently traded in my '14 Audi A6 Prestige (which was a great car) for a '15 S3 Prestige. The S3 is definitely more fun to drive! The power delivery is excellent, although there is a small bit of turbo lag (especially in regular 'D' mode). I think a 7-sp DSG (like in the S4) would've been better. The grip is outstanding and the car handles like it's on rails. Braking is also outstanding. Unfortunately, there are some cons for me, such as the lack of storage spaces (for sunglasses, etc.), no memory seat settings, no built-in garage door opener, and no heated steering wheel.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2019 Audi S3 problems:
THE AUDI S3 (8V) BUYERS GUIDE | AVOID Buying until watching ...
Jan 31, 2022 ... Audi S3 8v common problems explained to make sure you get the best car possible with your hard earned money! Considering Subscribing?
2019 Audi s3 reliability? : r/Audi
Oct 14, 2022 ... An Audi can be as reliable as you want it to be. So long as you stay on top of regular maintenance, an S3 can run 80k+ without much issue.
Audi S3 Long Term Review & Issues - 30K Mile Update - YouTube
May 3, 2019 ... Be sure to check out my favorite detailing & tech products that I use on my Audi S3 and YouTube Channel.
8V Audi S3 reliability and common issues? : r/Audi
Nov 29, 2018 ... ... 2019. I personally like the G70 more on paper, especially because of the 3.3t engine and the fact that people have been getting them to ...
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 2019 Audi S3?
Jeromy Beahan 2025-06-19
Over the course of 6 months and 7100 miles, I have had a low coolant warning appear twice. However, the problem has not reoccurred and the car is performing well. As I approach 40k, I am happy to report that the car has been solid and still a joy to drive. The B&O sound system makes my commute so much better too. While I did experience an issue with the water pump housing being cracked, the dealer was able to fix it for $1600. Overall, my experience with Audi has had its ups and downs, but I still enjoy driving the car. However, I have found that the maintenance can be a bit costly and the dealers are often behind schedule. Looking back, I may have reconsidered my purchase, but I still appreciate the fun and peppy ride that the S3 provides.
Alek Thiel 2024-04-16
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.