2012 Audi Tt problems
The Audi TT is a production front-engine, 2-door, 2+2 sports coupé and roadster, manufactured and marketed by Audi from 1998 to 2023 across three generations.
For each of its three generations, the TT has been based on consecutive generations of Volkswagen's "Group A" platforms, starting with its "PQ34" fourth generation. The TT shares powertrain and suspension layouts with its platform mates, including the Audi A3, like a transversely mounted front-engine, powering front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and fully independent suspension using MacPherson struts in front.
The TT's first two generations were assembled by Audi's Hungarian subsidiary, one of the world's largest engine manufacturing plants, using bodyshells manufactured and painted at Audi's Ingolstadt plant and parts made entirely by the Hungarian factory for the third generation.
The last of the 662,762 Audi TTs was manufactured in November 2023.
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Common 2012 Audi Tt problems
The Audi TT, manufactured between 2006 and 2014, is known for several common problems that owners have reported. Here are the details of these issues:
- Faulty interior trim: Some early TT models were recalled due to faulty interior trim that could protrude into the cabin during a crash, posing an injury risk.
- Twin-clutch transmission: A recall was issued for the twin-clutch transmission because a false temperature reading could cause a loss of drive. The software was updated to rectify the issue.
- Front-wheel-drive models with manual gearbox: Some front-wheel-drive TT models with manual gearboxes may experience a humming noise, which is caused by a problem with the drivetrain. This issue is more prevalent in models with higher mileage.
- Blower motor: The blower motor in the TT can be temperamental, working intermittently or not at all. If the fault code 1273 is displayed, the blower motor may need to be replaced.
- Performance issues: The TT's performance can be affected by contaminants building up in the fuel pump, leading to a lack of power, especially when the fuel tank is less than a quarter full. Cleaning the fuel tank and replacing the fuel pump can resolve this issue.
- Creaky steering: Older TT models may suffer from creaky steering, which can be particularly noticeable during maneuvering. This issue is more common in models with higher mileage.
- Diesel-engined Audi TT oil pressure problems: Diesel-engined TT models may experience oil pressure problems, which could be a cause for concern.
- Noisy manual transmission: A noise from the manual transmission, particularly during cornering, can be caused by degraded gearbox oil. Changing the oil can resolve this issue.
- Cam follower: The cam follower can wear out, leading to problems with the camshaft. Regular servicing and replacement of the cam follower can help prevent this issue .
- Seats sagging in the middle: Some TT owners have reported that the seats can sag in the middle, which is more likely to occur in models with cheaper leather or if the car has been heavily used. Various methods, such as steaming or expanding the foam, have been suggested to address this issue .
- Coil packs: Coil packs in the TT can fail frequently, especially after mapping. It is recommended to replace all coil packs at once to prevent further issues .
- Rear lights: The rear lights can suffer from a bad earth, causing a warning message to appear on the dashboard. This issue can be resolved by adding an extra earth or using a thicker amperage cable for the earth .
What is the common issue with Audi TT?
There have been quite a few reports of TTs suffering from water leaks, usually caused by the drainage tubes for the roof blocking up and overflowing. These can lead to flooding inside the car that, if severe enough, can cause serious problems with the electrics.
Is Audi TT a reliable car?
However, in our 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey, the TT placed second out of 15 cars in the coupés, convertibles and sports cars category. As a brand, Audi finished 21st out of 32 manufacturers.
Is the Audi TT expensive to maintain?
Audi TT Maintenance Costs
An Audi TT will cost about $9,644 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service.
How many miles will an Audi TT last?
An Audi TT should have no problems lasting over 100,000 miles with most of them reaching 150,000 miles. There are some higher mileage examples out there that have gone further, but once the TT reaches 100,000 miles the reliability does begin to drop off and the maintenance costs increase to keep it on the road.
What is the common issue with Audi TT?
There have been quite a few reports of TTs suffering from water leaks, usually caused by the drainage tubes for the roof blocking up and overflowing. These can lead to flooding inside the car that, if severe enough, can cause serious problems with the electrics.
Is Audi TT a reliable car?
However, in our 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey, the TT placed second out of 15 cars in the coupés, convertibles and sports cars category. As a brand, Audi finished 21st out of 32 manufacturers.
Is the Audi TT expensive to maintain?
Audi TT Maintenance Costs
An Audi TT will cost about $9,644 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service.
Are Audi TT parts expensive?
When it comes to making repairs on a luxury car like an Audi, parts are usually more expensive due to their high-quality nature.
2012 Audi Tt car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Audi Tt problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Audi Tt vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Audi Tt complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Audi Tt.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-20
- VIN: TRUBFAFK1B1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAD A PROBLEM WITH MY REAR RIGHT LIGHT. I SAW THE INFORMATION LIGHT ON THE DASH BOARD. WHEN I DISCONNECT THE LIGHT TO SEE WHAT IS GOING ON, I SAW THAT THE CONNECTOR HAS BURN MARKS.
Positive 2012 Audi Tt car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Audi Tt problems:
TTRS common issues | Audi TT Forum
Jan 4, 2021 ... Common Mk2 probs, saggy leather seats, noisy/failing window regulators, knocking steering racks, bonnet opening lever snaps & poor connections ...
Audi TT Common Problems - BreakerLink Blog
Apr 17, 2017 ... So What are the Common Faults with the Audi TT · Instrumentation and Instrument Cluster · Cam Belt · Water Pump · Gearbox · Suspension · Coil Pack.
tts common problems | Audi TT Forum
Mar 8, 2016 ... So if you remap you may get misfires. Sent from my iPhone 6s using Tapatalk. EX 2012 TTS Black Edition in Panther Black
2012 Audi TTS Problems to Watch For When Buying One ...
Oct 29, 2021 ... Check mag ride shocks for leakage - a chronic problem. Check that the rear lights, including brake lights are equal brightness. Connector ...
A couple of potential issues with 2012 TT-RS? | VW Vortex ...
Jun 8, 2012 ... A couple of potential issues with 2012 TT-RS? ... Is this a known issue with the 2012's? Could it be ... SOLD - 2012 Audi TT-RS: Stage 2 United ...
Other years of Audi Tt
Are you having problems with your 2012 Audi Tt?
Sofia Bradtke 2025-05-12
Update 4SEP17: The car is still a blast to drive. It has been trouble-free for the past 1.5 years, and I have added 10k miles to the odometer. I recently got a stage 1 tune, which is a mild upgrade in power and makes the car go even faster. I found this car online and drove almost 3 hours in heavy traffic to finally locate it. I was not in a good mood by the time I got to the dealership. When they told me the car was on their auxiliary lot one mile away, I almost got back in my car to leave. However, the dealer was kind enough to grab a car and talk me into riding with him over to the other lot. The moment I sat in this Audi TT and started the engine, I was grinning ear to ear. I have only had this 2012 Audi TT for one month now, but I already love driving it. My wife loves driving it and riding in it too, which is quite remarkable since she did not care to ride in or even drive my previous two roadsters. I have owned a Miata and a Z4. Both are great for driving in the mountains. I liked the Miata for its quick nimble handling (after some suspension mods and addition of a roll bar), but it was a bit cramped and underpowered for my tastes. The Z4 didn't lack power and had good interior room, but it lacked that nimble feel. Trammeling was a bit annoying as well. This TT is the best of both and then some. It has the nimble handling and feel way beyond the Miata and is even a bit faster than the Z4. It also has the interior room I want. The sound of the engine and the fast, crisp shifts of this transmission are the best ever to me. The Audi interior is pleasing to the eye and probably the nicest interior of any car in this class. My only gripe so far is the Navigation/Entertainment system. Entering an address or phone number into this radio has got to be the most painful and cumbersome system I have ever encountered. It works fine, but plan some prep time before a trip to set up a route. However, one good feature about this radio is the screen.It's great to hear that you're enjoying your new car! The way you describe the experience of driving with the top down and engaging the paddle shifters sounds like a lot of fun. It's always nice to have a stress reliever like this car to turn to. Keep on enjoying the ride!
Keon Kovacek 2025-05-02
I still love this car after a year of owning it! Although I did have a problem with the top locking up, I'm happy to hear that there is a recall for that part(s). As someone who is over 6 feet tall, I can comfortably sit in this convertible. I do regret not purchasing the Audi Care Service for $740 in IL, but maybe they will let me buy it before the 15k service? I absolutely love the paddle shifters, but I'm not a fan of the Ipod interface. It's difficult to navigate through the playlist, album, and artists. Interestingly, my wife used regular unleaded against my wishes, but it hasn't affected my 28mpg! Do you happen to know where I can get some track time and properly learn how to push this car to its limits?
Jeremy D'Amore 2025-04-21
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your second TT! It sounds like you got a great deal on a high-quality car with the added bonus of Quattro AWD. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
Eric Weber 2025-04-03
Great performing car...8 years of driving pleasure....no major repairs .....acceleration and auto shifts are terrific....
Price Krajcik 2025-03-04
This car is amazing! It's so much fun to drive and has made my daily commute to work an absolute joy. After considering Porsche, BMW, Lexus, Infiniti, I ultimately chose the Audi and I'm so glad I did. The car has plenty of torque to quickly get up to speed and pass other vehicles on the road. The brakes are responsive without being too aggressive. Even though my wife and I didn't plan on taking our girls in it, they absolutely love it! It's always a blast dropping them off at school in a sea of giant SUVs and minivans. And despite its small size, the car has been able to handle every grocery and Costco run with ease. I'm thoroughly enjoying my mid-life crisis mobile!