Recalls: Audi 8L S3
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Audi 8L S3
- In October 2001, a recall was issued for Audi 8L S3 vehicles due to the potential for moisture to enter the ball joints on the rear axles which can start corrosion in the ball joints, possibly leading to seizure of the ball joints (PRA 2001/4996).
Problems and faults: Audi 8L S3
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Problems and faults: Audi 8L S3
- If the engine lacks power, runs rough or surges, the mass airflow sensor may have failed.
- The hydraulic connection to the rear brake calipers was susceptible to corrosion due to different types of metal being used.
- Corrosion could occur at the roof edges and rear quarter panel.
- For 1.8-litre, 20 valve engines, the timing belts were susceptible to snapping between 110,000 and 130,000 kilometres, causing extensive damage to the engine.
- For early 1.8-litre, 20 valve engines, the plastic water pump impellers were susceptible to seizing and dislodging the timing belt.
- Later water pumps were made with metal impellers to overcome this problem.
- For 1.8-litre, 20 valve engines manufactured between August 2001 and October 2003, the ignition coils were susceptible to failure.
- The self-levelling system for the xenon headlights was susceptible to failure.
