Should I buy or not - B8 SE 1.8TFSI Automatic 160PS

V6_Man

V6_Man

Moderator
Staff member
Moderator
VCDS Map User
Joined
Oct 12, 2016
Messages
7,138
Reaction score
14,285
Points
113
Location
Aylesbury
Hi folks,

I am looking at changing our daily, which at present is a B7 2.0 tdi (CVT multitronic) and has done only 68k miles. The car is mainly used by my wife, she does a lot of local miles and I don't think a diesel that too an automatic is economical, anymore.

I have been contemplating between A3 and A4 and have just come across a B8 A4 (09 plate), SE 1.8 TFSI with 38k miles on the clock.

My question is should I buy it or not. Are there any known problems with B8 petrol with auto transmission. I know B8 S4 had issues especially round mechatronics failure. Is it a safe bet, shall I go for it?

I will also be looking at remapping the car, what is the potential, should I or not.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 
Last edited:
I think the 1.8tfsi is generally a more reliable engine than the 2.0tfsi one. I have a 2011 with 60k and so far the pcv valve failed and replaced, heater matrix leaked and replaced, ignition coils replaced, slight exhaust problems and currently a potential engine mounts failure in the near future. Otherwise its ok and the cvt is also reliable in my opinion so far. Oh yes and quite a few interior rattles...
Good luck with your purchase.

Sent from my SM-G928F using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
No luckily its a 1.8tfsi but I personally wouldn't buy it again

Sent from my SM-G928F using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
On a serious note; are these problems common occurrence or one-off? Particular engine type more prone to these kind of issues than others?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Pcv and coil failures are VERY common and I have noticed a few people mentioning the engine mounts failures. Good thing though the 1.8 doesn't have the notorious oil burning issue found in every pre-facelift 2.0 engine. Its better if you have it inspected and scanned professionally before buying.

Sent from my SM-G928F using Tapatalk
 
usmanrrana82 said:
Pcv and coil failures are VERY common and I have noticed a few people mentioning the engine mounts failures. Good thing though the 1.8 doesn't have the notorious oil burning issue found in every pre-facelift 2.0 engine. Its better if you have it inspected and scanned professionally before buying.

Sent from my SM-G928F using Tapatalk
Click to expand...

I have Carista and you can run diagnostics off it. I have been planning on buying VCDS for my other car and it looks like the time has finally come. It is a shame you can't access VCDS via OS. It is just adds to the costs. I don't want to buy a 2/3.o tdi due to local mileage. A3 can be a potential option but a bit too small for our family. Let's see what others come back with.
 
09 to 14 plate TFSI’s have potential oil issues due to defective piston rings (mainly 2.0T’s). I would check to see if it’s had an oil consumption test before contemplating.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
Crazyfool said:
09 to 14 plate TFSI’s have potential oil issues due to defective piston rings (mainly 2.0T’s). I would check to see if it’s had an oil consumption test before contemplating.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Click to expand...

Cheers @Crazyfool . What about 3.2 petrol then, any reliable? Also, if there is an oil consumption test done, what is it to look out for?
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
Lots to read but at the end of the day, they all lead to the same problem.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
Crazyfool said:
Lots to read but at the end of the day, they all lead to the same problem.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Click to expand...

So, I have read first 10 pages and last three (shows 71 pages on mobile ) and yes you are right, it is a common problem on B8. I don’t know why but I was under the illusion that it was diesels and not Petrol engines.

It also looks like Audi is fixing the issue free of cost for engines as and when it gets raised???

There are three cars (2 actually) I have short listed; a 1.8 (09 plate), 2.0 (2011) and 3.2 (10) all Petrol with low mileage, i.e. under 40k. Itching to go 3.2 but it is slightly above my budget. The good thing is that 1.8 and 3.2 are with Toyota. I will give them a call and ask for consumption tests.

2.0t is with a trade seller and I might ditch the plans. I have never bought a car from a ‘Trade Seller’ and will never. Few in family and friends and bought and the cars have proved to be WAGS wives - high maintenance!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Yeah the general consensus is that it should be repaired free of charge, but Audi still seem to be trying their luck on occasions by not agreeing to pay if it doesn’t have a full service history. So make sure you check all the paperwork is in place properly.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Wouldn't have thought the 3.2 would be the most, erm, how shall I say, frugal of motors - especially as the car does " alot of local miles"

Lovely sweet engine though !!
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
I'm affected by the 2.0L issue. I got my car checked and Audi said I had a couple of leaks that would make the test inaccurate, meaning I'd be spending £1,700 to get that fixed to get the test done that might "fail". Not a 100% FSH and oil put in last time was 10W40 for a long trip, so I just left it there really.
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
gary_a4_quattro said:
Wouldn't have thought the 3.2 would be the most, erm, how shall I say, frugal of motors - especially as the car does " alot of local miles"

Lovely sweet engine though !!
Click to expand...

Tbh, I am not too fussed about the economy as long as I can get 300 out of a tank. My B7 gives me 470-500 max on local miles (does include couple of motorway journeys 30miles/week).

Plus, I’d have another relatively nippy-ish Car to drive but sanity has to prevail at times. So far, I have resisted to not call the dealership.

1.8 is gone though


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
SeanTFSI said:
I'm affected by the 2.0L issue. I got my car checked and Audi said I had a couple of leaks that would make the test inaccurate, meaning I'd be spending £1,700 to get that fixed to get the test done that might "fail". Not a 100% FSH and oil put in last time was 10W40 for a long trip, so I just left it there really.
Click to expand...

Sean, I read your posts on the thread and I know where you are coming from and feel your pain.

My B7 just had its DMF replaced and car runs smoothly now. Perfect! It doesn’t have the hot engine rattle anymore. There was no other visible thing we could see elsewhere. But I want to sell it now. I want to sell it because I do not want to be hit with another problem.

A friend did suggest replacing the battery which would have potentially ‘masked’ the problem and then sell it but it didn’t feel right. Not me! Can’t do and won’t do it! Can’t screw anyone with a known problem on the Car. So, I thought let’s bite the bullet, fix it, mention it while selling it and let the buyer decide. Or perhaps part-exchange.

It is a shame as it is a lovely car. Runs really smooth even with the faulty DMF, but it is not ‘virgin’ anymore


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: xpoweruk
So I think its best for you to raise your budget and go for the 3.2 or find another suitable 1.8 and just forget about the 2.0. Problem solved

Sent from my SM-G928F using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
usmanrrana82 said:
So I think its best for you to raise your budget and go for the 3.2 or find another suitable 1.8 and just forget about the 2.0. Problem solved

Sent from my SM-G928F using Tapatalk
Click to expand...

Have seen another 2011 1.8, single owner 48k on the clock but trade seller. I asked about the oil consumption test and he had no clue. His reply was, 'it is a lovely car, clean inside and out and no problem. Audi's don't have any oil issues". So, looks like it is a no-no!

3.2 is very very tempting though :smirk:
 
Tashfeen said:
Have seen another 2011 1.8, single owner 48k on the clock but trade seller. I asked about the oil consumption test and he had no clue. His reply was, 'it is a lovely car, clean inside and out and no problem. Audi's don't have any oil issues". So, looks like it is a no-no!

3.2 is very very tempting though :smirk:
Click to expand...

Unfortunately not everyone knows about the oil issue. My car broke down due to it and I had to get relayed from Wales back to Berks. The AA mechanic and relay driver didn’t know anything about the issue.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
The 3.2ltr B8 is such a good engine. My previous car which I part ex'd was the 3.2 in lava grey. It's actually on Autotrader now and is the only 3.2 - perhaps you are looking at that one ?
 
jetty said:
The 3.2ltr B8 is such a good engine. My previous car which I part ex'd was the 3.2 in lava grey. It's actually on Autotrader now and is the only 3.2 - perhaps you are looking at that one ?
Click to expand...

Is it the one in Leighton Buzzard? The car is still there and looks really well looked after. But, it’s the local mileage factor on a 3.2 I am not sure of.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Nope mine is in Surrey. Looks like you're looking at a saloon rather than Avant ?

Only prob with the 3.2 is the fuel - my second home was the petrol station. 10-15mpg on a cold day - up into 20-25 on long runs. Needed something with better fuel economy so went with the 3.0BiTDI.
 
My issue is completely opposite to yours @jetty. My wife drives the B7 A4 and she does local miles. And I have finally admitted to the fact that diesel is not for local commute. I’ll be happy with a petrol engine giving me around 300-350 miles to the tank (wouldn’t mind a little bit more). Getting rear brake pads and front droplinks replaced on my B7 tomorrow and putting it on eBay/Auto Trader by the end of the week.

Think the 3.2 was more for me than for her. Would be a nice to have two 3.2s - fun no matter what you are driving

The search will be for a B8 with Audi history. So, fingers crossed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Crazyfool said:
Unfortunately not everyone knows about the oil issue. My car broke down due to it and I had to get relayed from Wales back to Berks. The AA mechanic and relay driver didn’t know anything about the issue.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Click to expand...

Cheers mate. I have spoken to 4 sellers to-date and you are right; none of them knew about the issue. They all had full Audi history though. Search continues. Will sell my B7 first and keep on looking - who knows.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Tashfeen said:
Cheers mate. I have spoken to 4 sellers to-date and you are right; none of them knew about the issue. They all had full Audi history though. Search continues. Will sell my B7 first and keep on looking - who knows.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Hi, @Tashfeen, would just having the one car (the S4) be a viable option for you?
 
  • Like
Reactions: V6_Man
jdp1962 said:
Hi, @Tashfeen, would just having the one car (the S4) be a viable option for you?
Click to expand...

Hi @jdp1962 , Jeff it is or will be until I find my next contract. My existing contract finishes end of Dec (likely March now) and depending on the next one who knows where it will be. But it looks increasingly likely it won't be in Oxford, which means I will be hitting the roads again and doing a lot of miles - been lucky so far.

So, simple answer is yes, I can live with/without a 2nd car for another 3-6 months but the compromise is that my wife will be driving my car (oops!), which whilst I am happy with (really) I am not sure it is a good idea for the remapped engine (good excuse :p - local miles and all that).

On the B7, I had the DMF replaced last week, having the cambelt and water pump replaced today, along with ARB droplinks and rear pads and discs. I am about to order Eibach sportline as the rear-ones are corroded and therefore need replacing. By the time it all finishes, the "maintenance" would've cost me nearly £1600.
 
  • Like
Reactions: jdp1962
Hi all

I know lots of thread on this topic but this one seemed quite pointed.

What I wanted to clarify was whether the b8 1.8t did have oil burning issues or not?

Quite a different set of opinions around.
 
ckl139 said:
Hi all

I know lots of thread on this topic but this one seemed quite pointed.

What I wanted to clarify was whether the b8 1.8t did have oil burning issues or not?

Quite a different set of opinions around.
Click to expand...

Hi buddy. Not common in 1.8s but the one I bought (now back with the dealer) had issues. 1ltr after 450miles.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: ckl139
Thanks. What’s it at the dealer for now?
 
ckl139 said:
Thanks. What’s it at the dealer for now?
Click to expand...

Returned to the private dealer I bought it from. My first and last car from a private dealer. Learnt my lesson and not touching any private dealer again.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Oh wow. So returned due to all the faults. I’m I best avoiding this.?>
 
ckl139 said:
Oh wow. So returned due to all the faults. I’m I best avoiding this.?>
Click to expand...

It had to go due to the below issues:

Replaced water pump due to water leak
Replaced faulty instrument cluster
Replaced the wiper arm as it was bent
Replaced interior bulbs as couple of them were gone
Replaced car battery
Replaced all four spark plugs
Replaced coil packs on cylinder 2 and 4.
Topped up 1ltr engine oil twice in as little as 400 miles


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: ckl139
And all of the above problems started the next day after buying the car. It was ****** stressful 3-4 weeks


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
jetty said:
Nope mine is in Surrey. Looks like you're looking at a saloon rather than Avant ?

Only prob with the 3.2 is the fuel - my second home was the petrol station. 10-15mpg on a cold day - up into 20-25 on long runs. Needed something with better fuel economy so went with the 3.0BiTDI.
Click to expand...

That bad fuel? I am looking at one on 09 plate to avoid a 2.0tfsi.

I used to have a 2.8b5 & currently have a b62.5tdi

We have a mini for in town. My audi is just for motorway & long distance runs - so shouldnt be such an issue for me (6k miles a year max)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

D
08 B8 1.8TFSI SE Saloon or 05/55 B7 3.0TDIQ Avant?
Replies
3
Views
1K
NHN
NHN
sandraj0719
B8 1.8tfsi mileage
Replies
0
Views
405
sandraj0719
sandraj0719
mike2516
b8 1.8tfsi mods?
Replies
0
Views
875
mike2516
mike2516
S
Should I Or Shouldn't I..........
Replies
2
Views
527
Mario
M
ScottishA4B9
BEST ENGINE? 1.8TFSi (160ps) v 2.0TFSi (211ps) v 2.0TDi (143ps)
Replies
44
Views
88K
Crazyfool
Crazyfool
Top
Back