1999 Audi A3

Introduction to the 1999 Audi A3

The 1999 Audi A3 is a subcompact hatchback that was offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The base engine was a 1.6-liter inline-four that produced 101 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine was a 1.8-liter inline-four that produced 125 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The A3 was praised for its sharp handling, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power, especially when equipped with the 1.6-liter engine.

Engine

1.6-liter Inline-Four

• Cracked Cylinder Head
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the cylinder head, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, loss of power, loud noise from the engine
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8-liter Inline-Four

• Oil Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, loss of power, oil leaks
  • Solution: Clean or replace the engine oil cooler
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Gears are difficult to engage, grinding noise when shifting
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage or transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips out of gear, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Front Control Arms
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or rattling suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the front control arms
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaking Rear Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, loss of handling
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, flickering lights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise from the starter
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the rear wheel arches
  • Solution: Treat or replace the affected panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heating or cooling system not working, strange noises from the vents
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific component that has failed (e.g., blower motor, evaporator core, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on the component
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Locks
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, central locking not working
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator or repair the wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Audi A3 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it can suffer from a number of issues, especially as it ages. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. However, many of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the A3 is a good choice for drivers who want a premium subcompact hatchback that is fun to drive and fuel-efficient.