2022 Audi RS3

The 2022 Audi RS3 is a high-performance compact sedan known for its exhilarating performance and distinctive five-cylinder engine. The heart of the RS3 is a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five engine, producing 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (S Tronic). Owners appreciate the RS3’s rapid acceleration, sharp handling, and distinctive exhaust note. However, some common complaints revolve around the car’s firm ride, and some initial build quality concerns. The following list details common issues and complaints reported by 2022 Audi RS3 owners.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Inline-Five

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual whistling or whining noises from the engine bay, check engine light illumination. Can be caused by oil starvation or bearing failure within the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The need to frequently add engine oil between scheduled oil changes, blue exhaust smoke, especially upon startup or acceleration.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions can range from software updates to piston ring replacement or complete engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (Software update) - $8,000+ (Engine rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, visible coolant leaks around engine components. Potential sources include water pump, hoses, or the thermostat housing.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component (water pump, hose, thermostat housing).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (S Tronic)

• Hesitation/Jerking During Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hesitation or jerky movements during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds. Can be more pronounced in automatic mode.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). In severe cases, clutch pack replacement or mechatronic unit repair/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (Software Update), $2,000 - $6,000+ (Clutch or Mechatronic Unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the transmission to engage gears, loud grinding noises, or error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Transmission replacement or full rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $7,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunction (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, error messages related to the suspension system, clunking noises from the suspension. Can be caused by a faulty damper or a wiring issue.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty damper or wiring, followed by replacement of the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper, plus labor for diagnostics and repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes intermittently. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Module Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms or failure of parking sensors, blind spot monitoring system not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty sensor(s) and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor, depending on location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or seats.
  • Solution: Identification and insulation of the source of the noise. This may involve tightening fasteners, applying felt tape, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the complexity of the repair and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof will not fully open or close, gets stuck, or makes excessive noise. This is often caused by debris in the sunroof track or a faulty motor.
  • Solution: Clean sunroof tracks and lubricate components, sunroof motor replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Audi RS3 is a thrilling performance car, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems like turbocharger failure and excessive oil consumption can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the dual-clutch system, can also lead to expensive repairs. Electrical glitches in the infotainment system and sensor malfunctions are less severe but can be annoying. Addressing the rattling and squeaking noises in the interior can be a time-consuming process, while suspension issues are uncommon, but can be costly. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect used RS3 models for these common issues and factor in the potential for repair costs when considering a purchase.