2019 Audi RS3

The 2019 Audi RS3 is a high-performance compact sedan known for its exhilarating performance and distinctive styling. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5 engine producing 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission is the only transmission option available. People often praise the RS3 for its potent engine, nimble handling, and luxurious interior. However, some common criticisms include a firm ride and relatively high price point.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the engine bay, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, oil leaks, whistling noise, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S Tronic Dual-Clutch

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting, delayed engagement, inability to shift, transmission malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the Mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, shuddering or vibration during gear changes, difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, knocking or clunking noises from the suspension, suspension malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected magnetic ride control dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or reboots unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the MMI unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2,000+ (MMI Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, intermittent functionality, or complete failure of parking sensors or other driver-assistance systems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattle/Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattles or creaking noises emanating from the sunroof area, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Adjustment or lubrication of the sunroof mechanism; in some cases, replacement of worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Audi RS3 is a thrilling performance car, but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most concerning problems involve the engine (turbocharger and PCV valve failure) and transmission (mechatronic unit and clutch wear). These issues can be expensive to repair. Suspension problems and electrical glitches can also occur. Potential buyers should factor these possibilities into their ownership costs.