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2004 Audi TT

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2004 Audi TT is a sporty coupe/roadster known for its distinctive styling and fun-to-drive character. The 2004 model year was available with two engine options: a 1.8L turbocharged inline-4 producing either 180 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque (FWD) or 225 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque (AWD), and a 3.2L VR6 engine producing 250 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque (AWD). The 1.8T engines were available with a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, or a 6-speed automatic transmission (called Tiptronic). The VR6 came standard with a 6-speed manual, and later models could be optioned with a DSG dual-clutch transmission. Owners often appreciate the TT’s sharp handling, iconic design, and relatively fuel-efficient engines. Downsides often cited include the small rear seats, limited cargo space, and potential for expensive repairs, especially as the cars age.

Engine

1.8T (180 hp/173 lb-ft)

  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, decreased power, check engine light illuminated.
    • Solution: Replace faulty coil pack(s). Consider replacing all coil packs at once for preventative maintenance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per coil pack, $200 - $600 for all four.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Vacuum Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, boost leaks on higher mileage vehicles, check engine light illuminated with codes related to lean conditions.
    • Solution: Identify and replace damaged vacuum hoses, check valve, or intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+, depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

1.8T (225 hp/207 lb-ft)

  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, decreased power, check engine light illuminated.
    • Solution: Replace faulty coil pack(s). Consider replacing all coil packs at once for preventative maintenance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per coil pack, $200 - $600 for all four.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, decreased power, excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine damage. Ticking noise before the belt snaps
    • Solution: Replace the engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Vacuum Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, boost leaks on higher mileage vehicles, check engine light illuminated with codes related to lean conditions.
    • Solution: Identify and replace damaged vacuum hoses, check valve, or intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+, depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.2L VR6

  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on start-up or during acceleration, especially from the top of the engine. Performance issues are also a common symptom.
    • Solution: Replace timing chains, guides, and tensioners.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant drips from the engine area, sweet smell of coolant, low coolant level, overheating. Common leak locations include the thermostat housing and water pump.
    • Solution: Replace leaking components (thermostat housing, water pump, hoses).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and components replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual (1.8T & VR6)

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, unusual noises during clutch engagement.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Consider replacing the flywheel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (Tiptronic)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, transmission warning light illuminated.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Suspension Bushings (Front and Rear)
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering, poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace worn suspension bushings. This may include control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per axle, depending on the number of bushings replaced and labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and other indicators.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Convertible Top Motor (Roadster only)
    • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top operates slowly, erratically, or not at all.
    • Solution: Replace the convertible top motor or repair wiring and hydraulic components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Spoiler Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The automatic rear spoiler (if equipped) may fail to deploy or retract properly due to a faulty motor or sensor.
    • Solution: Replace the spoiler motor or sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • LCD Screen Fade/Failure (Climate Control & Radio)
    • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screens on the climate control unit and/or radio become dim, faded, or completely unreadable.
    • Solution: Replace the affected climate control or radio unit. Repairing the LCD screen itself is possible but often more expensive.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per unit, depending on the unit and source (used vs. new).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Glove Box Latch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The glove box latch mechanism fails, making it difficult or impossible to open or close the glove box properly.
    • Solution: Replace the glove box latch or the entire glove box assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Audi TT, while a stylish and enjoyable car, is prone to several common issues as it ages. Engine problems, particularly with the timing chain on the VR6 engine and coil packs on the 1.8T, can be costly to address. Suspension and electrical issues also contribute to the potential maintenance expenses. The severity of these problems ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Depending on the issues that arise, repairs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Audi, TT
Audi TT 2004
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