2012 Audi TTS Quattro
The 2012 Audi TTS Quattro is a performance-oriented coupe and roadster known for its sporty handling and turbocharged engine. The TTS variant features a more powerful version of the 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The TTS Quattro is generally praised for its stylish design, responsive engine, and comfortable interior. Some common criticisms include the relatively small rear seats and limited cargo space. However, common issues found with the 2012 Audi TTS Quattro are related to the engine, electrical system, interior, and exterior.
Engine
2.0L TFSI (EA113) Engine
- Diverter Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, hesitation during acceleration, potential check engine light. Often caused by a torn diaphragm in the diverter valve.
- Solution: Replace the diverter valve. Upgraded aftermarket diverter valves are also available.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cam Follower Wear (High-Pressure Fuel Pump)
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, loss of power, potential check engine light. Caused by excessive wear of the cam follower that actuates the high-pressure fuel pump. Can lead to damage to the camshaft if not addressed.
- Solution: Replace the cam follower. Regular inspection and replacement are recommended as preventative maintenance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s). It is recommended to replace all ignition coils at the same time to avoid future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- PCV Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, oil leaks, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed S tronic (DSG) Transmission
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, inability to shift gears, transmission malfunction warning light. The Mechatronic unit is the control unit for the DSG transmission.
- Solution: Replace the Mechatronic unit or have it repaired.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Pack Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, jerky shifting, vibrations.
- Solution: Replace the clutch packs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Magnetic Ride Control (if equipped) Damper Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fluid from the damper.
- Solution: Replace the faulty damper(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per damper
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per control arm
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. Often caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning gauges, flickering display, loss of information.
- Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- ABS Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: ABS light on, traction control light on, potential loss of ABS functionality.
- Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Issues (Roadster)
- Description/Symptoms: Failure to open or close, leaks, unusual noises.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the convertible top mechanism, hydraulic system, or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Headlight Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Headlight bulb failures, flickering headlights, poor visibility
- Solution: Replace faulty parts or bulbs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation/Infotainment System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system crashes, loss of functionality.
- Solution: Repair or replace the navigation/infotainment system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Conditioning Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Weak or no cold air, unusual noises from the A/C system.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the A/C system, including compressor, condenser, or refrigerant leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Audi TTS Quattro, while a fun and stylish performance car, is prone to certain issues. Engine-related problems, such as diverter valve and cam follower wear, are relatively common and can range in cost from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. DSG transmission issues, particularly with the Mechatronic unit and clutch packs, are more serious and expensive to repair. Other potential issues include suspension component wear, electrical problems, and convertible top malfunctions (on roadster models). Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a 2012 Audi TTS Quattro. While the vehicle is older, if the specific issues are kept up to date and maintained, they are likely to be less severe and cheaper to fix.