2016 Audi TTS Quattro
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2016 Audi TTS Quattro, categorized as requested.
The 2016 Audi TTS Quattro is a performance-oriented coupe known for its sleek design, agile handling, and powerful engine. It stands out from the base TT model with an upgraded engine, sportier suspension, and distinctive styling cues. The TTS Quattro only came with one engine and transmission option, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 292 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s quick acceleration, precise steering, and comfortable interior. However, some have noted the relatively small back seats and limited cargo space as drawbacks. Reliability can also be a concern, as with many performance cars.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (292 hp)
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can originate from various points within the cooling system, including the water pump, hoses, or radiator. Common symptoms include a low coolant warning light, visible coolant puddles under the car, and an overheating engine.
- Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component. This may involve replacing a hose, the water pump, or the radiator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ depending on the component
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various seals and gaskets, such as the valve cover gasket, rear main seal, or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Locate and replace the leaking seal or gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Carbon Buildup
- Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 2.0T are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and reduced performance.
- Solution: Perform a carbon cleaning service to remove the buildup. This can be done via walnut blasting or chemical cleaning.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed S tronic Dual-Clutch Automatic
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The Mechatronic unit is the transmission control unit. Failures can cause erratic shifting, harsh engagement, transmission slipping, or complete loss of drive.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the Mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Due to the aggressive nature of the car, the clutch can wear. Symptoms include the car slipping or shuttering when accelerating, harsh gear changes, and the car not moving when shifting into gear.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the clutch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Magnetic Ride Control (MagRide) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The magnetic ride control shocks can fail, leading to uneven handling, a bouncy ride, and error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace the affected shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per shock.
- Recalls: None Found
- Damper Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Damper failure can manifest as a loss of ride comfort, excessive bouncing, and diminished handling performance.
- Solution: Replacement of worn or damaged dampers is the standard remedy to restore the vehicle’s ride quality and handling.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per damper.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system can experience glitches, freezes, and connectivity problems. This can affect navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the MMI unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ depending on the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle (e.g., oxygen sensors, ABS sensors) can fail, triggering warning lights and affecting vehicle performance.
- Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor and replace it.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor depending on the sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Battery drain can cause starting problems, especially in cold weather. The original battery may not be sufficient for the electrical demands of the car.
- Solution: Replace the battery with a higher-capacity unit or address any parasitic drains.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight/Taillight Issues
- Description/Symptoms: LED headlights or taillights can experience premature failure or flickering.
- Solution: Replace the affected headlight or taillight assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per light
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Virtual Cockpit Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The “Virtual Cockpit” digital instrument cluster can occasionally experience software glitches, flickering, or complete failure.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the instrument cluster may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ depending on the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 Audi TTS Quattro, while a fun and stylish sports car, can present owners with a range of issues. Engine problems like coolant and oil leaks can be moderate to expensive to repair. Transmission problems related to the mechatronic unit and clutch wear can be particularly costly. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and sensor failures are also common. Suspension issues with the shocks can also be expensive to repair. While the TTS is not riddled with recalls, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing one.