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2004 Audi S3

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2004 Audi S3 (8L chassis) is a sporty, compact hatchback known for its performance and quattro all-wheel-drive system. This model year features a single engine option: a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine (1.8T) rated at around 225 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission option is a 6-speed manual. Owners generally appreciate the S3’s responsive handling, powerful engine for its size, and overall build quality. Common dislikes include the age-related maintenance issues that come with older performance vehicles and the potential for higher running costs compared to standard hatchbacks.

Engine

1.8T

  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, loss of power. Often caused by heat and age.
    • Solution: Replace faulty coil packs. It is recommended to replace all four at once.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (depending on DIY vs. mechanic)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Diverter Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, reduced power, sometimes accompanied by a hissing sound. The original diaphragm-type valves are prone to cracking and leaking.
    • Solution: Replace the diverter valve with an upgraded piston-type valve (recommended) or an OEM replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Vacuum Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, misfires, check engine light. Common sources include vacuum hoses and intake manifold gaskets.
    • Solution: Smoke test to identify leaks, replace cracked or damaged hoses and gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the location and severity)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbo, reduced boost pressure, excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Inspect the turbo for bearing play and shaft damage. Repair or replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on whether it’s a repair, a remanufactured unit, or a new one)
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, high engagement point, clutch chatter.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Resurface or replace the flywheel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Synchro Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding when shifting into certain gears, particularly 2nd and 3rd, especially when cold.
    • Solution: Rebuild the transmission with new synchros, or replace the entire transmission with a used or remanufactured unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, imprecise steering, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings, or replace the entire control arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Shock Absorber/Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fluid from the shocks/struts.
    • Solution: Replace worn shock absorbers/struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on brand and whether it’s DIY or mechanic)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Pixelation
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixels disappearing from the information display in the instrument cluster, making it difficult to read.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster. Several companies specialize in repairing these clusters.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote not working, alarm malfunctions.
    • Solution: Diagnose the issue (faulty door lock actuators, wiring problems, or a failing central locking control module). Repair or replace the faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Wiper Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear wiper not working or moving erratically.
    • Solution: Replace the rear wiper motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The fabric on the headliner detaching from the backing and sagging down. This is very common in older vehicles.
    • Solution: Reupholster the headliner or replace it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2004 Audi S3, while a fun and capable car, is now an older vehicle and is susceptible to age-related issues. Engine issues like coil pack failures and vacuum leaks are common and relatively inexpensive to address. More severe issues with the turbocharger or transmission can be costly. Suspension components and electrical gremlins can also contribute to the overall running costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchase decision. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.

Audi, S3
Audi S3 2004
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