2010 Audi A3 Black Edition 1.8 TFSI

[JordanM200]

Looking to purchase an Audi A3 Black Edition (around 2010 - 2012) in the next week or two, specifically the petrol version which has the 1.8 TFSI engine in. I have done some search's online and understand that the diesel version (2.0 lump) has a cambelt which requires a change, however been unable to find out whether the petrol is a cambelt or chain driven? Not sure if this is something I should be insisting is done when enquiring on the car.

Also is there any other well known issues on these engines, or anything else to look out for?

Any help would be much appreciated

Thanks

[AI1601]

The 1.8 and 2.0 petrols in that era have known issues with high oil consumption due to piston ring design (Audi have replaced engines for this but it wasn’t part of a recall) and also timing chain issues. A lot of information on Audi forums have a search. I would personally avoid unless you can find a car with proof of the remedial work carried out.

If it’s in your budget go for the newer 8v A3 (2013 on) 1.4 tfsi with the cylinder on demand. Really good engine. They also did the 1.8 in that model for a short while with none of the issues I mentioned but rare and more expensive.

Edited by AI1601 on Thursday 5th November 22:19

Edited by AI1601 on Thursday 5th November 22:20

[JordanM200]

That's a shame, my budget is up to £6,500 so unfortunately won't be able to get into the newer model.

Looks like I will keep looking. I was also looking at the BMW 1 series around the same year 2010 to 2012 specifically the 116 or 118 but again I understand they have timing chain issues, any one else clarify this?

Thanks for the reply.

[Drive Blind]

as mentioned - oil usage

A friend bought an audi TT with the 1.8 TFSI a few years back and it drank about 2l of oil in under 1000 miles. The trader was brand new and took the car back and sourced another one. Same age, same engine and it's been fine.

And the BMW's had the N47 engine - it's well documented the timing chain issues these had, if you have a google.

[JordanM200]

Hmm ok thanks for the input.

I don't seem to be getting anywhere with the search, every car seems to have some kind of issue with the engine, and am without a car at the moment so needing something in the next week or two.

Idea number 3 - does the Audi A1 (2010) 1.4 TFSI have a cambelt or chain? If cambelt then I am back to the drawing board as not going to spend out straight away getting it replaced.