Audi 45 TDI

EA897 EVO engines with camshaft serial numbers CRT 000001–175973 and CZV 000001–003450 (production years 2014–2017) suffer from a material defect. The camshafts can break and cause irreparable engine damage.

Symptoms: Heavy ticking or knocking from the engine clearly beyond normal diesel combustion sounds; engine loss from complete camshaft fracture

The revised EA897 with two timing chains shows chain wear with poor oil maintenance or long service intervals. Repair costs of €3,000–5,000 are typical for the V6 double-chain drive.

Symptoms: Rattling on cold start (1–3 seconds), especially after extended standstill; audible under load with severe elongation

The 3.0 TDI V6 in the A6 and A7 shows pronounced EGR coking at higher mileages. Deposits can block the intake duct by up to 80% and require extensive dismantling for cleaning.

Symptoms: Juddering and misfires under part-throttle, rough idle especially during warm-up, significantly increased consumption

The 3.0 TDI in the A6/A7 C7 uses an SCR catalyst with AdBlue. Clogged DPFs from short-trip use and AdBlue dosing system faults are well-known issues. DPF replacement costs are high.

Symptoms: DPF warning light, AdBlue warning, power reduction, in limp mode a maximum of 3 restarts without repair

Standard air suspension shows frequent compressor and air bag failures from 80,000–120,000 km. Leaking bags make the compressor run continuously until it burns out.

AdBlue system on 3.0 TDI models shows frequent faults from around 60,000 km: clogged injectors from urea crystallisation, faulty dosing pump. Repair costs up to 4,000 €.

Kerb weight above 2,000 kg leads to significantly elevated brake wear. Front brake discs and pads may need replacing as early as 30,000–50,000 km.