SteveWallin

Hello All,

I've never owned an Audi before, but i'm a long time admirer. I'm now ready to get into a used A3 and i'm looking for any and all advice, tips, tricks regarding the A3. Best engines, model years, common issues etc. Specifically i'm looking at '08, '09, '10 models (all my budget allows for, anything newer is probably not an option).

All advice is welcome, as I'm relatively uneducated about these cars and I'd like to be as informed as possible.

Thanks in advance!

Dad A3

Start by looking for 09 or newer.
Numerous differences in engine.
I have an 06 and 12.
The oil pump in the 06 was $ 1,700.00 without install.
These cars are easily modified and will provide years of fun driving, maintenance costs are fairly reasonable.
Good luck.

SteveWallin

Thanks! All my top picks right now are '09 with 2.0 TFSI engines

findalex

When looking at 2.0 TSI engines,try to get one with an updated timing chain tensioner. The previous owner would either have done it proactively or had it replaced when it failed. If not, you will have to update it yourself for a few hundred dollars, or hope and pray Audi will cover it under extended warranty (if you're in the USA and if you have proof of all oil changes) when you need a new engine due to the timing chain failure.

https://timingchainlitigation.com/

Oil changes must adhere religiously to maintenance schedule or you may have timing chain stretch. If either tensioner fail or timing chain stretch fail, you're looking at a new engine.

I have a '09 A3 2.0 TSI and it's been ok. The DSG sucks in stop-n-go traffic (lurches, hard shift) due to bad TCM software, no permanent fix. The timing chain was a bit noisy at startup but after the tensioner update, the engine is as quiet as my '13 A5 2.0 TFSI. Road noise is much higher compared to the A5. Front Bose speakers need replacement soon. Had the intake replaced under recall. Need new air bags (under recall) but Audi doesn't have the parts (for the past 4 months). I'm sure there is carbon build up after 60K+ miles. DSG requires oil change periodically (often neglected). And spark plugs/ignition coils can go bad and cause misfires. Early electric steering racks reported to be problematic, I've only heard weird noises on mine but still works fine.

SteveWallin

That's an excellent piece of information, thank you very much!