Seat Exeo
88 kW EA189 2.0 TDI in the Exeo at the lower power level. Note Dieselgate recall; check EGR valve function after software update. Lower insurance rating due to lower power.
Exeo base diesel — solid entry
The 2.0 TDI with 88 kW in the Exeo 3R is a modest but reliable entry-level engine. The Exeo chassis (Audi A4 basis) is good; the engine stays in the background. For drivers looking for a cheap mid-range diesel with a good foundation.
Engine Weaknesses 5
The CAGC in the Exeo is affected by the VW emissions scandal as an EA189 variant. Software update mandatory. The update increases EGR activation and can cause consequential damage on already worn valves.
Symptoms: Elevated NOx emissions; post-update possibly black smoke, engine stuttering, EGR fault codes
After the EA189 mandatory update the EGR valve opens far more frequently. Already stressed valves fail, recognisable by black smoke and engine stuttering. Repair: replace EGR valve or cooler.
Symptoms: Black exhaust, engine stuttering, reduced power especially above 50 km/h, engine warning light
In the CAGC 2.0 TDI 170 hp Exeo, the DPF and throttle valve clog up with soot deposits. Frequent city driving prevents full regeneration. The throttle valve becomes fouled again after 30,000–40,000 km of short-trip use.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough running, engine warning light, black smoke on pull-away
Faulty injectors cause knocking and rough running in the EA189 CAGC. If one injector fails, secondary damage to the DPF and EGR system quickly follows from uncontrolled post-injection.
Symptoms: Knocking or ticking from the engine, judder under load, poor cold start, increased fuel consumption
The water pump and coolant hoses of the CAGC can develop leaks in the Exeo at higher mileages. Perished coolant hoses are typical for vehicles over 10 years old.
Symptoms: Dropping coolant level, occasional coolant warning, visible puddle after parking
Vehicle Weaknesses 3
The double-wishbone front axle of the Exeo 3R (Audi A4 B7 basis) wears at high mileage and is costly to overhaul.
On the 2.0 TDI engine fuel return lines can develop leaks. Typical symptom is fuel stains under the vehicle.
Premature battery performance loss and false alarms from the anti-theft system are known weaknesses on the Exeo 3R.
