Audi A3 8V 2.0 TDI, 150 PS, 6-speed manual, all-wheel drive (2012–2016)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Audi A3 8V (2012-2020): known problems and buying guide

  Check oil use on 1.2 and 1.4 TFSI, the quattro coupling pump and S tronic judder before you buy.

• Engine guide VW 2.0 TDI (EA288) diesel: problems, costs and what to check

  Coolant leaks, EGR and AdBlue faults are the main risks. Buy with a cold-start check, a coolant pressure test and a full scan.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. On a quattro, ask for proof of coupling oil changes. Bad result: no records, or the front wheels spin and the rear wheels do not drive.
2. Look at the rear discs and backing plates for rust, and ask about brake wear at the last inspection. Bad result: heavy rust or worn brakes.
3. Test the infotainment system on the test drive and ask whether the software update was done. Bad result: faults that return after the update.

From the engine guide

1. Turbo (needs a scanner). Read boost faults and check the vanes. Bad: power loss, whistle or smoke.
2. DPF (needs a scanner). Read soot and ash loading. Bad: frequent regeneration or high oil level.
3. Intake manifold (pressure test). Pressure-test the cooling system. Bad: coolant loss with no puddle, worse under load.
4. EGR cooler (pressure test). Cap the cooler hoses and repeat the test. Bad: it holds only with the cooler bypassed.
5. Water pump and heater. Start cold; heater must blow hot. Bad: weak heat, wandering gauge, dried coolant.
6. Oil pump drive (needs a scanner). Listen for a rattle at idle and check for oil-pressure codes. Bad: a red oil-pressure warning.
7. Belt and pump invoices. Ask for dated belt, pump and thermostat invoices. No record means budget for a belt job.
8. Recall check. Enter the VIN in the official recall check. Bad: an open 23Z7 campaign on a T6.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions