Audi A3 Typ 8L - 2000 1.8 - common faults/problems?

[lindrup119]

Hi all,

As title, going to look at a 1.8 petrol tomorrow and just wanted to know what I should be keeping on top of. It's covered north of 140k so want to try and make sure it's not due any expensive engine work.

Thanks,

lindrup119

[KM666]

If its a 20v turbo, vac lines split, crankcase breather splits both lead to general rough running, SAI can be noisy but usually doesn't effect operation. Carbon canister can also be noisier than other cars but is normal, lots of common fault code stuff but if no lights are on happy days. Wishbone bushes can fail. Sumps are set low and are pretty weak.

HTH

[lindrup119]

It's 20v Sport according to AutoTrader, don't think it's a turbo though as it's only rocking the 1.8 badge minus the T.

[PostHeads123]

Check the windows open and close correctly, the window regulator can go circa £250-£300 to get fixed at garage.

Suspension springs can snap cheap to fix.

When was last cambelt / water pump change, can be pricey to do £450 - £600 ?

Hazard / directions lights can play up but you just need to replace the hazard switch itself (I did mine).

Bubbling rust, rear qtr's on roof line edge, buddling appeared on mine 5 yrs ago but never got worse than bubbling or breaking the paint.

Clutches are strong I'm still on my first but I believe pricey to replace.

Alternators, I've had 2.

I had mine 15 years its 1.8T sport, above are all I've had gone wrong with the car, pretty strong cars tbh.

[yosamuel]

I had one of these for a couple of years (same year and engine). Served me well for 20,000. Strong engine, good interior, no rust.

Biggest expenses for me (nothing unique to that car):

- Changed timing belt and waterpump when I got it (~£450, 108,000 miles)
- Alternator went shortly after (~£300)
- Tyres, brakes, bushings, an anti-roll bar

Mine had a few issues:

- Bad roads could shake an HT lead off of the distributor and you’d lose a cylinder
- Brake like switch (literally a plastic switch under the brake pedal) failed on me twice… had to take the dash off to replace
- Front suspension top-mounts were worn out and squeaked very loudly