Audi S3 Common Problems and Solutions
High Revs Cause Engine Hesitation
Problem:
The engine becomes hesitant at high revs.
Solution:
There are three possible problems here. First, check your coil packs and order replacements from us if they are shot. If they are fine, then look at the spark plugs and replace them as necessary. If neither of those seems to be a problem, then you have faulty injectors, which you can also order from our store.
Difficulty level
Coil Pack
The Car Doesn't Start In Wet Weather
Problem:
When it rains, the engine won't turn over. This will be accompanied by the ABS light coming on and the ESP and ABS becoming disabled.
Solution:
The yaw sensor has broken and will need to be replaced. In most models of the S3, you'll find the yaw sensor in the centre console, just beneath the radio. Some models have it located beneath the steering wheel, while others may have it under the front passenger seat. We always have S3 yaw sensors in stock so that you can order yours and replace them easily.
Difficulty level
Poor Running
Problem:
The car lacks power, and the engine performance has dropped dramatically.
Solution:
Older models of the S3 have a black coolant temperature sensor, which very easily breaks down. You'll find the upgraded green version of the sensor on our drop-down menu. Before you replace the part, don't forget to open and then close the header tank to release pressure.
Difficulty level
Coolant Temperature Sensor
Overheating Thermostats
Problem:
The temperature gauge is much higher than the actual temperature.
Solution:
The plastic impeller on the S3 is very prone to failure, and that will end up causing both overheating and damage to your thermostat. Replace the plastic impeller with a metal pump and order a replacement thermostat that we can deliver to you.
Difficulty level
Thermostat
Window Malfunction
Problem:
The windows won't close.
Solution:
There are plastic clips that run up and down on the window regulator of the S3, and they can break all too easily. You can find replacement A6 metal clips on our parts list and replace them, and that will solve the window problem.
Difficulty level
Misfiring Engine
Problem:
The engine is misfiring regularly, and the boost may be affected as well.
Solution:
The oil breather valve that's on the front of the cam cover is prone to sticking with the Audi S3. It's worth changing the cover for a new one every 10,000 miles, but if you're being affected by misfires, then you can order a new one from us and easily install it yourself.
Difficulty level
Fuel Cuts and Power Loss
Problem:
The fuel keeps cutting out, and the car experiences a sudden loss of power.
Solution:
You need to deal with this quickly, or it's going to become a lot more expensive. The problem is a worn-out fuel pump cam follower, and if you don't replace it, you're going to start damaging your camshaft. Fortunately, replacing the fuel pump cam follower is very simple, and they are easy to find in the BreakerYard store.
Difficulty level
Vibrating Steering Wheel
Problem:
The steering wheel is vibrating excessively. It may be accompanied by a knocking or banging noise while turning the car.
Solution:
This will be a case of a worn-out top strut bearing. These are very easy to install, and you can easily find a replacement on our parts list for the S3.
Difficulty level
AirCon Issues
Problem:
The air-con unit is no longer working.
Solution:
There are lots of reports of S3s with malfunctioning AC, and there are two possible causes. First, try checking the aircon sensor, which you'll find very low-cost in our store and is a very easy job to install the replacement yourself. If that doesn't work, then the problem will be the AC compressor, which is a little more difficult to install but not too challenging.
Difficulty level
Rust on roof rails or door trims
Problem:
On both the roof rails and lower door trims, it is known for these areas to rust.
Solution:
If the rust is not too bad, you can rub it down, treat it and then repaint it. The Audi corrosion warranty is 10 years, so check to see if it can be fixed under this warranty.
Difficulty level
Electric window problems
Problem:
If you have been facing problems with the electric windows not going back up when pressing the button, this fault is caused by a broken window clip.
Solution:
You will need to replace the window clips, in order to resolve the problem. Have a look at the video below, for an idea on how this is done:
Difficulty level
Coil spring failure
Problem:
It is known for the coil springs to fail on the S3. The ends of these springs can shear off over time.
Solution:
You will need to fit replacement coil springs, so as to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor failure
Problem:
It is common on the S3, for the mass airflow sensor to fail. If this part has failed, then you will have noticed a lack of power and poor overall engine performance.
Solution:
You can remove and clean the MAF sensor to sort the problem, but if this does not work, you will need to purchase a replacement MAF sensor.
Difficulty level
Misfiring/lack of power
Problem:
If you have begun to find that your S3 is lacking in power and/or the engine is misfiring, then the most likely cause is for the coil packs to have failed. This is a common issue on Audi cars, and the S3 is no different.
Solution:
Fitting a revised coil pack will sort the problem. The design has been revised, so hopefully this problem has been rectified. There was an Audi recall for replacing coil packs, so it is worth checking out if your car qualifies for this recall. If so, it will be fixed free of charge.
Difficulty level
Console Rattling
Problem:
The centre console area is rattling, with a lot of the rattle occurring from the trim that surrounds the gear lever. There may also be a rattling sound coming from the boot locking mechanism.
Solution:
This does tend to happen eventually, and it can be very frustrating. Some drivers have suggested that you should remove the console to find where the rattle is coming from, but if your Audi is still under warranty, it's best to have it checked over professionally. For the boot locking mechanism rattle, simply order a replacement from us and fit the new mechanism into place.
Difficulty level
Bootlid Lock Mech
