Audi S3
2.0-litre TFSI from the EA113 platform with 265 PS for the S variant. Robust proven unit with cam belt timing — no timing chain issues like the EA888. Known weaknesses: camshaft chain tensioner after 80,000–100,000 km, high-pressure pump follower wear. Watch for increased oil consumption and coolant loss.
First S3 with DSG option — fast but characterless
265 hp, Haldex AWD, first S3 with optional DSG. Objectively fast and competent, subjectively missing a soul. The predecessor with the 1.8T had more character, the Golf R32 had more sound. For a quiet, efficient AWD compact: perfect. For goosebumps: wrong address.
Engine Weaknesses 6
Up to 785,000 EA113/EA888 generation engines with 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI consume more than 1 litre of oil per 1,000 km due to undersized oil scraper rings. The BHZ belongs to the affected early engine generation.
Symptoms: Sharply dropping oil level, blue smoke from exhaust especially after start-up, measurable oil consumption above 0.5 l/1,000 km
The EA113-based 2.0 TFSI BHZ has a notoriously soft lobe on the inlet camshaft driving the high-pressure pump. The bucket tappet wears rapidly and can break off — consequential damage exceeds €5,000.
Symptoms: Fuel pressure fault code P0089, power loss, engine stumble, in worst cases sudden engine failure without warning
In the 2.0 TFSI EA113 the timing chain tensioners and camshaft actuators fail, promoting chain skip. When the chain jumps the cylinder head is often damaged as well — costs up to €5,300.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, check engine light, shaking at idle, in extreme cases sudden engine failure
The original oil pump on the EA113 delivers insufficient pressure at low rpm for the camshaft actuators. Inadequate pressure destroys the balance shaft module — a typical EA113 catastrophic failure.
Symptoms: Oil pressure loss, metallic ticking, engine failure under high load
As a direct-injection engine without port injection the BHZ builds up heavy carbon deposits on the intake valves. Walnut blasting or mechanical cleaning every 60,000–80,000 km is necessary.
Symptoms: Rough cold start, idle surge, power loss under partial load, increased fuel consumption
The N249 bypass valve on the EA113 often fails before 40,000 km. The result is a noticeable loss of power. An inexpensive and easy-to-replace part that is often overlooked.
Symptoms: Noticeable power loss, slow throttle response, turbo whistling noises
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The side engine mounts on the S3 8P are subject to heavy wear and can even crack. The problem occurs earlier under spirited driving or with a chip tune.
The Haldex pre-charge pump screen blocks due to old oil and prevents pressure build-up. The all-wheel drive then fails and the rear wheels receive no drive. Often the expensive coupling itself is replaced incorrectly.
The S3 8P is based on the Golf 5 platform with comparatively weak corrosion protection. Rust forms especially at the right rear wheel arch and at weld seams. Pre-facelift vehicles up to 2011 more affected.
Wheel bearing damage on the S3 8P manifests as humming in corners. The quattro drivetrain and higher weight compared to the A3 cause faster wheel bearing wear.
The rear brakes on the S3 8P are prone to heavy surface rust on the discs and persistent squealing, even after short standstill periods. The increased wear from spirited driving accelerates the process.