The Audi R53 is considered one of the finest Audi A3 models. The R53 will give you something no other car can, a great pleasure in driving around in this car thanks to its exceptional engine.

The 2.5L 5-cylinder engine is basically an Audi R8 engine cut in half and that’s why the R53 sounds so smooth rivalling the A45 AMG. The A3 was not the most reliable car from Audi but like all German premium performance cars, it will be reliable if you have good maintenance performed regularly.

While the Audi S3 is considered an entry-level performance A3, the RS3 is considered top-of-the-line for the A3 models. The S3 offers a 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder while the RS3 comes with a 2.5L turbo 5-cylinder engine.

The R53 gets approximately 100hp more and can outrun the S3 from 0-60 mph in just under a second. The Audi RS3 is the fastest Audi A3 that money can buy and can run 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds.

That said, the RS3 comes with its own faults. The most common issues are associated with the engine, fuel pump, and electronics issues with the top mounts and with the MAF sensor. Most of these issues can be corrected with timely and thorough maintenance before problems arise.

The RS3 is a really fun car to drive and it seems most owners are very happy with how reliable this car performs. The RS3 is a compact Audi that offers several luxury amenities and offers an excellent performing engine.

Engine Issues With The Audi RS3

Reports online have revealed there have been some occasions when the 5-cylinder turbocharged engine will cut off for no reason. This usually happened when the car was idling. Some people have reported that this has happened to them while driving, which is a serious problem!

Reports have also revealed that the RS3’s engine is known to go through oil very quickly, especially when driving an extended number of miles. The 2.5L is not an engine people consider unreliable but there are not enough R53 models on the road to properly assess whether it’s reliable or not. We are aware that this engine must be maintained or it could lead to disastrous issues.

Fuel Pump Issues With The Audi RS3

Both the RS3 and S3 have been known to experience problems with the fuel pump. The system either stops providing fuel or cuts off fuel going to the engine from time to time. Problems like this can put a lot of stress on the camshaft which is why these issues must be dealt with as soon as possible.

Audi RS3 owners have reported that the car’s warning light comes on “low fuel pressure”. It appears the issue is mostly down the fuel control module which should be changed out whenever problems start to arise. A faulty fuel pump can be dangerous as it can be the reason why some RS3 models lose power while the owner is driving.

Electrical Issues With The Audi RS3

The Audi RS3 is susceptible to certain electrical issues just like the Audi A3. These issues include a faulty infotainment system that can freeze without any reason and problems with the power window regulators that comes with plastic clips and hooks that are known to break from time to time.

There have also been issues with the backup camera or exterior lighting. These problems are no surprise because many premium German cars have electrical issues that are complex and packed with many high-end electrical features.

Top Mounts Issues With The Audi RS3

Many owners online have complained about the top mounts sending out knocking sounds, especially at the rear end. Many RS3 owners have taken their cars to an Audi dealership and had their rear top mounts replaced at no charge.

Audi never issued a recall for this part as it does not cause a huge threat to the safety and because there are far too many VAG cars with the same problem. It’s highly recommended you inspect the RS3 to see if there are any top mount issues.

MAF Sensor Issues With The Audi RS3

The Mass Airflow, or MAF, the sensor is responsible for how much air should join the combustion process in order for the engine to offer optimal power. That said, the sensor is a known issue with many VAG cars and can be dealt with in 2 different ways.

One, try to clean the entire MAF which has been shown to solve the problem. Two, if that doesn’t work, you will have to replace the sensor.

Specialist Servicing

Volksmaster have over 25+ years experience in specialist Audi servicing. Our technicians receive training from the manufacturers and access to the manufacturer database. We also have all the latest technical equipment to ensure we are completely up to date with the latest Audi technology.

Volksmaster offer a premium service at a none premium rate, this is the core of our business and this is what keeps customer coming back year after year.

If you are considering a service, repair or MOT for your Audi RS3 you can book your Audi RS3 in to one of our 4 branches by using the simple form below or give us a call at Oldham 0161 624 5060, Heywood on 01706 622633, Bury 0161 761 3030 and our Oldham Van Centre 0161 628 5270.

We also offer a highly convenient Collect & Return service or a Courtesy Car to ensure your routine is disrupted as little as possible while your vehicle is serviced, repaired or undergoes an MOT.

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