Audi A4
Revised 2.0 TFSI with 147 kW for the B7 generation. Same oil consumption issues as AXX, but slightly improved piston ring sealing. Power output identical.
Solid everyday engine — gets the job done
200 hp 2.0L for daily use. Watch the known weak points. Manual gearbox is pleasantly light.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Up to 785,000 engines from model years 2008–2011 affected: oil control rings too narrow (1.5 mm instead of 2 mm) coke up and allow oil into the combustion chambers. Consumption above 1 l/1,000 km possible.
Symptoms: Frequent oil level warnings, bluish smoke, oil consumption well above normal, sooty deposits in exhaust
The camshaft chain on the EA113 2.0 TFSI stretches with oil starvation or long service intervals. The chain tensioner and guide rails show wear with rattling as an early warning.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling from the timing chain area on cold start, camshaft sensor fault code, rough running
The oil separator and crankcase breather on the 2.0 TFSI are known weak points. Defective membranes create vacuum in the crankcase and promote oil leakage.
Symptoms: Rough idle, whistling noises from engine bay, oil mist, mixture/injection fault codes
The mechanical high-pressure pump on the EA113 TFSI can show pressure drops at high mileages, causing rough running and fault codes. Particularly relevant after extended periods with low fuel levels.
Symptoms: Hesitation under load, starting difficulties, injection pressure too low fault, engine warning light
The water pump on the 2.0 TFSI can develop leaks or fail. If not detected in time, overheating damage with cylinder head warping can result.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, coolant warning light, overheating, coolant smell from engine bay
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
On the 2.0 TDI the hexagonal shaft of the oil pump drive can snap, causing immediate oil pressure loss and engine damage. Preventive replacement is recommended.
Airbags manufactured by Takata can deploy with excess pressure and propel metal fragments. Worldwide recall campaign.
Control arms and tie rod ends wear prematurely. Clunking and rumbling on poor surfaces. The multi-link front axle is maintenance-intensive.
Defective ignition coils can immobilise the engine or cause severe running roughness. Mainly affects 1.8T and 2.0 TFSI engines.
From model year 2004 Audi used partial bonding instead of full galvanisation. Wheel arches and sills are vulnerable to rust, especially on older examples without cavity protection.
Rear wheel bearings fail regularly on the A4 B7. Quattro models show increased wear.