2019 Audi S3

The 2019 Audi S3 is a compact performance sedan known for its blend of luxury, sporty handling, and everyday usability. The S3 offered a single engine option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 288 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It was exclusively paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners often praise the S3 for its quick acceleration, precise steering, and upscale interior. Criticisms sometimes include a firm ride (especially with the optional sport suspension), and some find the infotainment system a bit complex. Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (CJXC)

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, low coolant warning light. Often, the plastic impeller on the water pump fails or cracks, leading to coolant loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump, thermostat, and coolant flush. Consider an upgraded metal impeller water pump for increased durability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the turbocharger, check engine light (CEL). Potential for oil leaks. This issue is seen on earlier models, but can still occur on the 2019.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S tronic Dual-Clutch (DQ381)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, hesitation when accelerating, transmission warning lights on the dashboard. Can progress to complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the Mechatronic unit. In some cases, a full transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $6000+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, especially in higher gears, RPMs flaring without a corresponding increase in speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch packs within the transmission. Requires specialized tools and expertise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, knocking or clunking noises from the suspension, suspension warning lights. Dampers may leak fluid.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected magnetic ride dampers. Can be expensive as these are specialized components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ per damper (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, screen blackouts, Bluetooth connectivity issues, errors with navigation or other apps.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or in more severe cases, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2000+ (Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Various)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine lights (CEL) triggered by faulty sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, MAF sensor, etc.), leading to poor engine performance or fuel economy.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific sensor that is faulty, followed by replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per sensor (depending on type and location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make noises when opening and closing, or leak water.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate sunroof tracks, adjust sunroof alignment, or replace sunroof motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2019 Audi S3, while a fun and capable car, can present some potential reliability concerns. The most significant issues tend to revolve around the engine, specifically water pump and turbocharger failures, and the transmission, with potential for Mechatronic unit issues and clutch slippage in the S tronic dual-clutch. Suspension problems are common on models with the magnetic ride system. Electrical glitches in the infotainment system are also reported. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars depending on the component involved. It’s important to consider these potential issues when evaluating a used 2019 Audi S3 and factor in the cost of preventative maintenance.