Used Audi A3 Cabriolet 2014-2020 reliability

As with any used convertible, check the footwells for any sign of water damage and the roof for leaks. Check that the electric mechanism for the hood works as it should, otherwise it'll be an expensive job to put right. Also check the large alloy wheels for any signs of kerb damage.

There have been a number of issues relating to rattles from the 1.4 TFSI engine, so listen carefully for any noises from the turbocharger. In diesels, the diesel particulate filter warning light has been known to illuminate, although driving the car on the open road for a few minutes is usually enough to turn it off.

Light bulbs seem to blow fairly frequently on the A3, so you may want to check they all work when you go to test drive the car.

Rear hub carrier

On certain A3s produced between 1 August 2017 and 31 August 2017, there was an issue with the rear hub carrier not being manufactured to the correct standard, so in extreme circumstances, it could lose a rear wheel. A recall was issued to replace the carriers on affected cars.

Passenger airbag

Vehicles produced between 30 June 2014 and 15 November 2014 needed to have their passenger-side airbag module replaced because of a faulty weld on the gas generator inside. In extreme circumstances, internal components could break off, enter the interior and cause injury.

DPF

All diesel models will come equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that’s designed to trap soot from the exhaust and then burn it off later. If the DPF light comes on, you must take the vehicle on a longer drive at a higher speed to clear the filter.

The Audi A3 is generally a reliable car. In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, the model ranked 15th out of 29 cars in the family car class. Its reliability score of 91.4% makes it more reliable than the Mercedes A-Class, but less reliable than the BMW 1 Series.

The largest fault rate (15.8%) and the A3's main trouble spot proved to be the sat-nav/infotainment system. Other issues were vastly less prominent, with bodywork seeing a 5.3% fault rate, engines 2.6% and engine electrics 2.6%.

As a car brand, Audi performed poorly, ranking 26th out of 32 manufacturers. It proved itself to be a more reliable brand than Jaguar and Land Rover, but less reliable than BMW and Volvo.

Used Audi A3: owners' reliability data

While the general consensus indicates a satisfactory level of reliability, with many owners experiencing trouble-free motoring over several years, some owners experienced notable electronic and engine issues.

As for dealer service, we heard several pieces of positive feedback, with owners praising courteous and knowledgeable dealership staff. They also highlighted instances of efficient, professional handling of repairs and maintenance. Some owners expressed frustration over expensive repair costs and lengthy wait times for service appointments, though.