2012 Audi A3

39 serious complaints of 43, the most about air bags (31) and fuel system (4); 1.5× this model's usual share of all serious complaints about 2012 vehicles. 4 recalls. NHTSA investigation EA11003: high-pressure fuel pump failure. NHTSA investigation PE11023: diesel fuel injector line leakage.

What owners report

“Takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 audi a3. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v079000 (air bags) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue.”

An owner's complaint to NHTSA about the air bags, Aug 2016

“While driving at 40 mph on evening on april 16, 2015, the engine noise was noticeably more pronounced. One mile further, a flashing glow plug light illuminated followed by a dramatic loss of power (limited to 25 mph). Drove remaining short distance home at a low speed due to engine failure.”

An owner's complaint to NHTSA about the fuel system, Apr 2015

Fixes and extended coverage

• Extended coverage Was revised on 11/13/18 to include a proration table for consequential damage repair reimbursement. This bulletin explains the extended warranty for the timing chain/timing chain tensioner in certain vehicles. (AWA 18-15-201811, Nov 2018)
• Extended coverage This document contains information on the warranty extension for intake manifold & fuel injectors. (Customer, Jan 2015)
• Extended coverage This document contains general information on the upcoming warranty extension on the high pressure fuel pump. (Dealer, Apr 2015)
• Extended coverage This document modifies the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual on the high pressure fuel pump limited warranty extension for certain 2009-2012 model year Audi TDI clean diesel engine vehicles. (AWA-15, Jun 2015)
• Extended coverage This communication asks dealers to contact Audi Warranty if they have any questions about the extended warranty coverage for 2.0L and 3.0L TDI vehicles. (AWC-18, Mar 2018)
• Extended coverage Reminders - TDI Approved Emissions Modifications, Emissions Compliant Repairs, corrections and extended warranty / warranty policy and loaner vehicle overview (EmailAUTDI2L-3L, Sep 2020)

From the manufacturer's bulletins filed with NHTSA. A dealer can look up whether a car has had the work done or is still covered.

43 owner complaints · 4 recalls (check a car's VIN for open recalls) · EPA combined: 24–32 mpg · NHTSA: Not rated · 2012 trims and features