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Audi A3 problems: all generations

We have documented 4 generations of the Audi A3: A3 I (1996–2003), A3 II (2003–2012), A3 III (2012–2020) and A3 IV (2020–today). The one with the best score is the Audi A3 I (6.3/10). Choose the generation or the year to see its faults, the engines best avoided and what to check before buying.

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  1. Audi A3 I

    1996–2003 · code 8L

    Engines and gearboxes: 1.9 TDI, 1.8 T 20v

    Most serious fault: Critical severity

    6.3 out of 10MotorFiable Score

  2. Audi A3 II

    2003–2012 · code 8P

    Engines and gearboxes: 1.2 and 1.4 TSI, DSG7 DQ200 gearbox, 2.0 TSI / TFSI, 2.0 TDI, 1.6 TDI, VW 2.0 TFSI EA113, DSG6 DQ250 gearbox, 2.0 FSI, 09G (Aisin) gearbox

    Most serious fault: Critical severity

    4.3 out of 10MotorFiable Score

  3. Audi A3 III

    2012–2020 · code 8V

    Engines and gearboxes: DSG7 DQ200 gearbox, 2.0 TSI / TFSI, 1.6 TDI, DSG6 DQ250 gearbox, 1.2 and 1.4 TSI, 1.0 TSI / 1.5 TSI, 2.0 TDI

    Most serious fault: Critical severity

    5.4 out of 10MotorFiable Score

  4. Audi A3 IV

    2020–today · code 8Y

    Engines and gearboxes: DSG7 DQ200 gearbox, 2.0 TSI / TFSI, 1.0 TSI / 1.5 TSI

    Most serious fault: Critical severity

    5.9 out of 10MotorFiable Score

Problems with Audi cars · Audi A3 warning lights · Least reliable cars