Reliability guide for used Audi A3, S3 and RS3 8V cars
Launched in 2012 , the Audi A3 8V marked a significant milestone for the German brand, with the introduction of the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform . Available as a sedan, Sportback, and convertible , it gave rise to iconic sporty versions: the S3 (300 to 310 hp) and the RS3 (367 to 400 hp).
More modern, better finished, and lighter than its predecessor, the Audi A3 8P , the 8V establishes itself as a versatile and high-performing premium compact car . However, some engines and mechanical components still have known weaknesses that should be checked before purchase.
Key features of the Audi A3 8V
- Premium interior finish and on-board technologies (MMI, Virtual Cockpit from 2016).
- Wide selection of petrol and diesel engines.
- High-performance and reliable sports versions (S3 and RS3) if well maintained.
- Driving comfort and everyday versatility.
Reliability by engine
Petrol Engines
1.0 TFSI 116 hp (3 cylinders)
- Generally reliable, but a few cases of noisy timing chain .
- Moderate oil consumption, but should be monitored.
- Small engine, not always suited to the weight of the A3 on long journeys.
1.2 TFSI (105-110 hp)
- Present early in its career. Known weakness in the timing chain and ignition coils .
- Tendency to consume a little oil.
1.4 TFSI (122, 140, 150 hp – with or without COD)
- A good compromise between reliability and user-friendliness.
- COD (Cylinder On Demand) : can cause misfires or vibrations in case of malfunction.
- On some versions: fragile turbos and oil consumption.
- Overall more reliable than the 1.2 TFSI.
1.5 TFSI Evo (150 hp – after 2017)
- "Kangarooing" problems (cold start jerking) on early models → fixed after software updates.
- Reliability is acceptable once this issue is resolved.
1.8 TFSI (180 hp)
- Good engine but quite rare.
- Oil consumption may occur on some models.
- Turbo and water pump monitoring.
2.0 TFSI (190 hp – standard A3 versions)
- Solid, much more reliable than the old 2.0 TFSI EA888 gen 1/2.
- Pay attention to the ignition coils and water pumps (they are fragile).
- A good choice in terms of reliability.
Audi S3 8V – 2.0 TFSI EA888 Gen 3 (300 then 310 hp)
- Very robust overall.
- Some issues with the water pump leaking (fragile plastic part).
- Direct injectors that can foul the intake valves → decarbonizing recommended after 100,000 km.
- Reliable DSG gearbox if well maintained (oil change every 60,000 km).
Audi RS3 8V – 2.5 TFSI (367 then 400 hp)
- Iconic 5-cylinder engine, extremely reliable and sought after.
- Some cases of fragile injectors and ignition (coils) .
- High fuel consumption , but no major recurring mechanical faults.
- With rigorous maintenance (frequent oil changes + quality oil), this engine block can exceed 200,000 km without major problems.
Diesel Engines
1.6 TDI (110/116 hp)
- Correct, but injectors can sometimes be temperamental.
- EGR valve and DPF are fragile on urban journeys.
2.0 TDI (150/184 hp)
- More robust than the old TDI CR engines.
- EGR and DPF remain the weak points.
- On some S tronic gearboxes: beware of mechatronic failures if maintenance is neglected.
Other known issues (all versions)
- S tronic (DSG) gearbox : generally reliable if the fluid is changed every 60,000 km. The 7-speed models with a dry clutch (especially the 1.2 and 1.4 TFSI) are more fragile than the 6-speed models with a wet clutch (S3, RS3).
- Water pumps : a recurring weak point on TFSI engines.
- Electronics : ABS sensors, MMI sometimes temperamental.
- Suspension : silent blocks and shock absorbers wear out quite quickly on sports models.
Performance Auto Parts
Do you already own an Audi A3, S3 or RS3 8V or are you thinking of buying one? Find a selection of accessories and customization parts in our shop.
CarPlay/Android Auto modules:
Steering wheel paddles, replacement buttons, everything you need for the interior of your Audi:
Sporty grille and carbon fiber elements for a premium look:
👉 See our Audi A3/S3/RS3 8V collection
Which model should I choose?
- Daily use : 1.4 or 1.5 TFSI (after 2017) or 2.0 TDI for high-mileage drivers.
- Affordable sports car : S3 8V, an excellent compromise between reliability and performance.
- Collector's icon : RS3 8V with its 5 cylinders, one of Audi's most reliable and legendary engines.
