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2018 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2018 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that combines a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque with an electric motor that delivers an additional 102 horsepower. This gives the car a combined output of 204 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the e-tron for its fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and luxurious interior. Common complaints revolve around limited all-electric range, relatively small cargo space, and the complexity of the hybrid system, which can lead to potentially expensive repairs.

Electric Motor

Electric Motor

  • Loss of electric range
    • Description/Symptoms: Gradual decrease in the all-electric driving range over time. Drivers report the range dropping below the EPA estimate.
    • Solution: Battery health check at an Audi dealership. Depending on the severity, the battery pack may need to be rebalanced, or individual modules or the entire pack replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $10,000+ (depending on the severity)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Electric motor malfunction warning light
    • Description/Symptoms: The electric motor malfunction warning light illuminates on the dashboard. This may be accompanied by a reduction in power or inability to use electric mode.
    • Solution: Diagnostic check at Audi dealership to determine the root cause of the malfunction. It could be related to the motor itself, the inverter, or the battery management system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (diagnostic) + Cost of repair if not under warranty
    • Recalls: None Found

1.4L Turbocharged Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Engine

  • Coolant Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant requiring frequent topping off, overheating, and visible coolant leaks. Can originate from the water pump, thermostat housing, or hoses.
    • Solution: Locate and repair the leak by replacing the faulty component(s). Pressure test of the cooling system to confirm the repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the engine, visible oil puddles under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level. Can be caused by leaking valve cover gasket, rear main seal, or oil pan gasket.
    • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking gasket or seal. Clean the engine to remove oil residue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DSG)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifts, especially at low speeds. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
    • Solution: Perform a DSG adaptation reset using a diagnostic tool. Check and replace the DSG fluid if necessary. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (adaptation reset) - $400 (fluid change) - $1500+ (valve body/rebuild)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission malfunction warning light
    • Description/Symptoms: Illumination of the transmission warning light on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Diagnostic scan to identify the fault code. The issue could range from a faulty sensor to internal transmission damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (diagnostic) + cost of repairs if not under warranty
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Suspension Components
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Inspect and replace worn suspension components such as control arm bushings, ball joints, struts, and sway bar links.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on components)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation glitches.
    • Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500 - $2000+ (unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. This can make it difficult to start the car.
    • Solution: Test the battery and alternator for proper function. Check for parasitic draws by testing current draw. If applicable, identify the circuit that has the parasitic draw and locate what device is causing the issue. Replace any defective components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-300 (battery replacement), $100 - $500+ (parasitic draw diagnostics/repairs)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • LED Tail Light Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Partial or complete failure of the LED tail lights.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected tail light assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or leaking.
    • Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks for debris and lubricate them. If the motor or mechanism is faulty, replacement will be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (lubrication) - $500 - $1500+ (motor/mechanism replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Airbag light on
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dash.
    • Solution: Scan the airbag module using a diagnostic tool to identify the cause. Common causes are faulty seat wiring or a defective airbag module. Repair or replace the faulty part.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (diagnostic) + Cost of repair if not under warranty
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, while offering a blend of fuel efficiency and luxury, can present owners with a range of issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system and battery drain, are relatively common and can be costly to diagnose and repair. Engine and transmission issues, while perhaps less frequent, can also lead to significant expenses. The hybrid-specific components, such as the battery pack and electric motor, can also require costly repairs or replacements. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of the potential for these issues and factor them into their ownership costs.

Audi, A3 Sportback e-tron
Audi A3 Sportback e-tron 2018
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