Audi cars are generally reliable these days, especially if they are well maintained. But as with any brand, there are certain pain points that can make even a new car a nightmare to live with. However, you can use these tips to improve the reliability of your Audi without spending hours on maintenance.
Check your coolant level to ensure Audi reliability
Water pump problems can be some of the most common reliability problems for Audi engines. There was even a NHTSA recall to help fix the problem. And since most of the brand’s models are turbocharged, cooling is an especially important factory for its long-term health.
Not only does the turbocharger generate heat inside the engine compartment, but the exhaust gases and intercooler also receive high-temperature air throughout the combustion process. Since your Audi likely has a water-cooled exhaust system, it’s important to maintain proper coolant levels and pressure to manage the overall engine temperature.
A failing water pump can cause overheating when coolant begins to drain from the system. Therefore, checking the coolant at every gas stop can help you detect and stay ahead of water pump leaks that can harm your Audi’s reliability.
Use high quality motor oil
For many of the same reasons, using high-quality motor oil can also help improve the reliability of your Audi. Dealing with the extra friction and combustion pressures of a turbocharged engine means your oil has a lot of work to do.
As such, buying the cheapest oil is often a recipe for reduced reliability in the future. Using high quality oil may cost a little more upfront, but it beats the thousands you’ll spend on a failed turbocharger or piston ring due to a poorly lubricated engine.
Double clutch transmission service
The Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) from the Volkswagen Audi Group is one of the best in the business. But it is not without flaws, especially if it is poorly maintained. Mechatronic unit failures can cost thousands to fix, and the part itself often takes weeks to arrive.
This is why it is critical to perform DSG service at the scheduled 60,000 mile intervals, if not a few thousand miles earlier. The DSG can handle a ton of torque, but it also generates a lot of heat as it sends that power to the wheels. Maintaining adequate contamination-free lubrication is important to the long-term health of the gearbox.
It can be a tricky service to perform, but the video below explains how you can perform your own DSG service without spending big bucks at the dealership. By doing so, you’ll learn another way to improve the reliability of your Audi so you can enjoy driving it for years to come.
Audi reliability is easy to improve by following the basics
All in all, Audi’s lineup is as reliable as it’s ever been. As such, it doesn’t take much to improve its overall longevity. By following these tips, you can improve the reliability of your Audi and keep it running for more than 150,000 miles.
