Let first start by saying the 3.0T Supercharged Audi engine is a very solid engine. It is not particulary failure prone and would be the most reliable S model engine to date. What we have listed below would be just a few things to look out for if you were to have an issue. With that said here is a little background on the 3.0T.
The 3.0T TFSI engine was a new engine that was first offered in the face lifted C5 A6 for the 2009.5-2010 model year. This new engine was based off of the 3.2L V6 FSI, which was available in some 2006-2009 A4, A5 and A6 models. While the engine blocks looked the same, there were several things changed to accommodate the twin-screw roots style supercharger. There are two generations of 3.0T engines, along with several different engine code variations depending on the year, and trim model of the vehicle, which we’ll touch base on below.
Audi Models with the 3.0T TFSI Gen1 Engine
S4 2010.5 - 2015
S5 2010-5 - 2015
A6, C5 platform 2009 - 2011
A6, C6 platform 2011-2015
A7 2011 - 2015
A8/A8L 2013 - 2016
Q5 2013-2017
SQ5 2015 - 2017
Q7 2011.5 - 2016
Audi Models with the 3.0T TFSI Gen2 Engine
A6 2016 - Current
A7 2016 - Current
A8/A8L 2016 - Current
Q7 2017 - Current
3.0T TFSI Thermostats
Over the years, there have been several updates to the thermostats in these engines. The early first generation 3.0T’s in the A6 were prone to overheating concerns due to thermostats that would stick closed. Sadly, this trickled over into some early C6 A6’s also. There were software updates performed to the engine control module, along with replacement of some thermostats based on certain operating conditions. Some models produced fell under service action, where thermostats, fuel rails, and gaskets were replaced as part of a customer satisfaction bulletin, and were replaced under warranty.
Associated Parts
- Thermostat for Audi 3.0t (Supercharged)
3.0T TFSI Water Pumps
The water pumps on these engines are a conventional style water pump driven directly by the accessory drive belt, unlike the water pumps on the 2.0T TSI engines. These pumps aren’t a major failure item, but they do leak from the bearing weep hole occasionally. If the engine has previously overheated due to a faulty thermostat, it’s also best to replace the water pump. Some pumps have vacuum diaphragm that controls coolant flow based on engine control module demand. This is controlled via a solenoid valve on the back of the supercharger housing on some models.
Associated Parts
- Water Pump for 3.0t V6 (Supercharged) - for B8 S4 and S5
- Water Pump for 3.0t V6 (Supercharged) - for B8.5 S4, S5, A6 and SQ5
3.0T TFSI Oil Consumption Concerns
Oil consumption in these engines isn’t as big of an issue as it has been with the first generation 2.0T TSI engines, but it’s still a concern that’s been addressed by Audi. Early first generation 3.0T engines produced before mid 2012 had a higher pressure regulation valve for the oil separator. This PCV unit is located under the supercharger assembly, vacuum lines, and fuel rails. This separator unit sucks air from the valve covers, under the supercharger, and into a heavy oil separating unit through a course of passageways and valves. Once the heavy oil particles have dropped, the small lighter particles are passed through a port into the base of the supercharger housing, and burned through the intake. The updated PCV valve has a lower pressure regulating valve which helps with oil consumption concerns. In the rare case that these updated parts didn’t alleviate the consumption, new, tighter fitting piston rings were installed in the engines.
Associated Parts
- PCV Valve for Audi 3.0t (Supercharged)
3.0T TFSI Misfires and Injector Issues
Over the years, there have been many issues with ignition coils, which trigger misfires and other driveability concerns. WIth the new 3.0T, failed ignition coils aren’t as common as it is with the 2.0T TSI engines. One major thing to be concerned about, if you replace your own spark plugs, it’s important to pull the ignition coil up from the red housings, and not from the base between the valve covers. This puts strain on the insulating housing of the secondary windings of the ignition coil, and can damage the coil internally. If you are experiencing misfires, it’s best to inspect and replace the spark plugs, if necessary. These engines do not like aftermarket spark plugs, so it’s best to stick with an OEM supplier such as Bosch or NGK. Service interval for spark plugs in the 3.0T is 55k miles, or 5 years, whichever occurs first.
Fuel injector failures are also not as common as they are with the 2.0T TSI, but it is known to happen from time to time. In most cases, these injectors will stick open, and cause the spark plug to foul up. The engine control module will also store several faults for the affected cylinder. Such faults are cylinder fuel in-balance, and rich O2 sensor readings.
Associated Parts
- Ignition Coil for Audi 3.0t (Supercharged) - OEM
- Ignition Coil for Audi 3.0t (Supercharged) - Bosch
- Spark Plugfor Audi 3.0t (Supercharged) - OEM
- Spark Plug for Audi 3.0t (Supercharged) - Bosch
- Fuel Injectorfor Audi 3.0t (Supercharged) - OEM
Related DIY Videos
3.0T TFSI Secondary Air Faults
The secondary air system on these vehicles is used to heat up the catalytic converters quickly during cold-start conditions. This system consists of an air pump, hoses, vacuum lines, electronic control valves, and secondary combi valves, which are located on the back of the cylinder heads.
These secondary air ports run the length of the cylinder head, into each combustion chamber. Over time, and depending on driving styles, carbon will build up in these small 10mm ports and cause faults in the engine control module for Secondary Air, Bank1/Bank2 Insuffecient Flow. There are several things to be aware of when dealing with this system. If you have broken air supply lines from the pump to the engine, damaged vacuum lines, electrical faulty control valves, or stuck combi valves, you will have one, or several insufficient air flow faults present. If all of these items check out and are operating as they should, you could have clogged air ports. Some models do have a warranty extension which covers the secondary air port cleaning up to 10 year/110,000 miles. Please check with your local dealer for details. Keep in mind, if any of the control valves, combi valves, or supply lines are damaged, or faulty, those items are not covered under the warranty extension, and would have to be replaced before the port cleaning can be performed.
Associated Parts
- Secondary Air Pump for 3.0t Supercharged B8.5 S4 and S5
- Secondary Air Pump for 3.0t Supercharged B8 S4, S5, A6 and SQ5
- Combi Valve (Passenger) Right forAudi 3.0t (Supercharged)
- Combi Valve (Drivers) Left for Audi 3.0t (Supercharged)
3.0T TFSI Oil Pressure Faults- Do Not Exceed 4,000 RPMS
Early Gen1 3.0T engines may have an older style oil pressure switch, which can fail, causing a fault for the high oil pressure circuit in the engine, preventing operation above 4,000 RPM’s. There is an updated switch available, designated as F22, and is purple in color. This pressure switch is buried under the wiring harness, secondary air pipes, and O2 sensor wiring on the bottom of the oil filter housing where the supercharger assembly is located.
Associated Parts
- Updated (Purple) OEM Audi 3.0t Oil Pressure Switch
FAQs
Is the 3.0 supercharged Audi engine reliable? ›
Let first start by saying the 3.0T Supercharged Audi engine is a very solid engine. It is not particulary failure prone and would be the most reliable S model engine to date.
Are 3.0 TFSI engines reliable? ›There are two generations of the 3.0 TFSI. It is warranted as one of the most reliable S model engines Audi has ever produced. The engine features an Eaton supercharger with 24 valves plus Audi's patented FSI technology. As you can imagine, there are many engine codes for this engine: CAKA, CAJA, CCBA, CMUA, and CTXA.
How much power can 3.0 TFSI handle? ›The APR Ultracharger System dramatically increases horsepower and torque, and maximizes the power potential of the 3.0 TFSI. It removes a massive pre-supercharger restriction, allowing uninterrupted airflow into the supercharger for up to an astonishing 542 HP with APR's Supercharger and Crank Pulleys.
What type of supercharger does Audi use? ›Audi replaced the V8 engine in the previous S4 sedan and Avant wagon with a new direct- injection 3.0-liter V6 with an Eaton TVS supercharger, which is available in several other Audi cars and crossover models.
What is the most reliable Audi engine? ›For used Audis with a 1.8T or 2.0T, go with an EA113 or Gen 3 EA888 engine. Because Volkswagen owns Audi, the two brands often share engines. And as with used Volkswagens, the 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines tend to be the most reliable.
What does TFSI stand for? ›The TFSI (Turbo fuel stratified injection) is the world's first turbocharged direct injection engine. This system produces higher power output and optimum engine response, all while providing greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
What does Audi Supercharged mean? ›The Audi Supercharger Explained
Since the belt driven supercharger goes up in speed with the engine, its output is directly related to engine RPM and therefore is instantly able to make pressure when you step on the gas. This characteristic is the reason a supercharger has better throttle response than a turbo.
In most cases, the Audi TFSI engine has proved reliable but, as with all engines, correct and timely maintenance is the key to longevity. Pre-2012 TFSI engines may have higher-than-average oil consumption, which could be nothing to worry about but in some cases signifies that the piston rings in the engine may be worn.
Which Audis have the 3.0 Supercharged? ›Audi's Supercharged 3-liter V6 engine was introduced in 2008 and has been a workhorse motor used in everything from the high-performance S4 and SQ5 to family haulers and large sedans like the Q7 and A6.
How do I change the oil in my Audi supercharger? ›Removing & Replacing Supercharger Oil (Audi S4, S5, SQ5, Q5, A6, A7 ...
What does the T in 3.0 t mean? ›
The T in 3.0T means TFSI, Audi's forced induction system. It doesn't matter if a turbo or a supercharger is used, it's still TFSI. The Audi A8L W12 (12-cylinder) engine is normally aspirated (no forced induction) so that is an FSI system as opposed to TFSI.
How much horsepower does a Audi a6 supercharged have? ›Higher trims are available with a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that makes 340 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Which is better a turbo or a supercharger? ›But each system comes with a unique set of trade-offs. For those looking to balance performance with fuel economy and efficiency, turbocharging is the better choice. For those more interested in a straightforward solution to raw horsepower, supercharging is more likely the way to go.
Is Audi TFSI supercharged? ›The 3.0 TFSI develops 213 kW (290 hp) and a huge 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque. It combines two state-of-the-art technologies in perfect style – gasoline direct injection and compressor supercharging.
Is TFSI turbo and supercharged? ›TFSI has only a turbo. TSi is twin charged and has turbo and a supercharger. The 1.4 TSi engine may be fragile as it is not strong enough to handle a turbo as well as a supercharger.
Which German car is most reliable? ›1. Volkswagen. Volkswagen is the flagship brand for the Volkswagen Group and is considered to be one of the most reliable brands on the global market.
What year did Audi fix the oil consumption problem? ›In 2014, Audi agreed to settle claims that a defect caused some of its cars to burn excessive amounts of oil. The settlement only covered certain 2009, 2010 and 2011 models, however, and attorneys believe the oil consumption issue could extend to vehicles manufactured as recently as 2017.
What is better TDI or TFSI? ›According to Audi's official figures the obvious benefit of the tdi is better economy but it is slower than the tfsi. Now if the tfsi was cheaper to buy it would be a no brainer as we wouldn't cover enough miles to reap the benefits of diesel.
How does Audi TFSI work? ›So how does it work? Injecting fuel directly into the engine removes heat from the intake air, which creates a higher compression, improving efficiency and responsiveness and removing knock. Recent TFSI success stories include the Audi A1, Audi A5 Sportback and Audi Q5 S tronic.
What does the 35 and 40 mean on Audi? ›Models with 145-159bhp will be badged as '35' Models with 165-198bhp will be badged as '40' Models with 223-244bhp will be badged as '45' Models with 278-304bhp will be badged as '50'
What does the T stand for in Audi? ›
This new, all-wheel-drive Audi gets its good oomph from a 333-horsepower V-6. If you were to contemplate the model's full name, the Audi Q7 3.0T, you might assume the “T” stands for turbocharged.
Does Audi still make supercharged engines? ›Surprisingly, it was planned as a small-volume engine for high-performance compact S4s and S5s. Now it is Audi's only V-6 available in midrange A6s and A7s, the flagship A8 sedan and Q5, SQ5 and Q7 CUVs.
What Audis have the 3.0 TFSI? ›It not only powers the S4 and A6, but the larger A7 5-door sedan and Q7 cross/utility vehicle. The engine also is used in other brands belonging to Volkswagen, Audi's parent, including versions of the VW Touareg, Porsche Cayenne and Panamera Hybrid.
How long do Audi Turbos last? ›A turbo's life-cycle is around 100K to 150K miles, it's possible for them to wear out over time depending on how hard you drive the car. Although the turbo is stable but it will not last forever. It will need replacing eventually.
Why do Audi engines use oil? ›The base problem with these engines is that the piston rings allow small amounts of oil to leak out into the cylinders. Once in the cylinders, it burns, leading to high oil consumption.
What does S tronic mean Audi? ›S tronic® The S tronic combines the efficiency and sportiness of a conventional manual gearbox with the convenience of a modern automatic. The dual-clutch gearbox enables rapid shifting with almost no noticeable interruption in the power flow. The vehicle accelerates smoothly and dynamically.
Is the Audi A7 3.0 T reliable? ›The Audi A7 Quattro Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 27th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,251 which means it has poor ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent for the A7 Quattro, so you may experience a few more visits to your Audi shop than normal.
What year Audi A6 is most reliable? ›While a newer model of the Audi A6 has respectable reliability, the 2010 model is the most reliable according to U.S. News. This mid-size luxury sedan can be had at a deal, averaging $13,000. The 2010 model of Audi's A6 features a standard turbocharged V6 on AWD models.
What is Audi CREC engine? ›CREC is the engine code for the updated 3.0T Supercharged engines found in 2016-2018 Audi A6 & A7 chassis. The CREC variation includes numerous changes from the previous generations of the 3.0T platform including a dual direct and port injection fuel system, supercharger refinements, a new ECU, and many other changes.
How often should supercharger oil be changed? ›You can replace your supercharger's oil every 50,000 miles, this is a suitable interval for servicing your supercharger. However, always consult your vehicle's owner manual, which will provide the most up-to-date information on what your car requires and when it requires it.
Is the Audi S5 turbo or supercharged? ›
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The S5 trades in its old 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 for a new turbocharged V-6 of the same displacement. With 354 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, the new S5 sports 21 more horses in its stable and 44 lb-ft of additional twist compared with the previous engine.
The biggest news on the B9 S4's launch was the switch from supercharged to turbocharged technology, plus the adoption of an eight-speed automatic gearbox instead of the previous car's dual-clutch S-tronic transmission.
What is Audi Q7 supercharged? ›Acceleration and Power
The 2019 Q7 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that produces 329 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque is optional. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.
This engine propels the A6 from 0-62mph in a decent 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 153mph.
How much HP does a Audi A6 3.0 T have? ›Acceleration and Power
The A6 comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 248 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard. A turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine is available. It produces 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.
The A6 sedan comes in two versions: the front-wheel-drive 2.0T, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and the 3.0, which has a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 and standard Quattro all-wheel drive, for $8,200 more.
Are supercharged engines reliable? ›Superchargers are arguably more reliable than turbochargers. They're easy to install and maintain. They're louder than turbochargers—they enhance the RPMs by a considerable amount—and they're also more common as a result.
Can a supercharger be turned on and off? ›Third from the right in the above photo of easy-to-find-in-junkyards superchargers, the Previa supercharger can be turned on and off in true Mad Max fashion, and that requires the correct switch. This switch is used for two-speed truck axles.
How much oil does a 3.0 TFSI take? ›The engine oil capacity of an Audi A7 3.0 TFSI is 7.2 quarts, or 6.8 liters.
What Audis came with a Supercharged V-6? ›Audi's Supercharged 3-liter V6 engine was introduced in 2008 and has been a workhorse motor used in everything from the high-performance S4 and SQ5 to family haulers and large sedans like the Q7 and A6.
What year is the S4 Supercharged? ›
The 2008 S4 was the top-performer model in the Audi A4 range. It was introduced in late 2008 as a 2009 model and it lost the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 in favor of a supercharged 3.0-liter V6.
What is the difference between TSI and TFSI? ›The short answer is, not a lot, but there are some minor differences. For starters, TSI stands for “Turbo Stratified Injection” and “FSI” stands for “Fuel Stratified Injection”. These apply to both Volkswagen and Audi direct fuel injection engines. Believe it or not, TFSI stands for “Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection.”
What does quattro stand for in Audi? ›Used by Audi since 1980, the 'quattro' name applies to the four-wheel-drive system fitted to the Bavarian brand's road and racing cars. Audi spell the system itself with a lowercase 'q' after the Italian word for 'four' - Quattro with a capital 'Q' applies to the iconic Group B rally car from the 1980s.
What does Audi 55 mean? ›The number "50" will represent cars with an output of between 281 to 308 hp (210 to 230 kW), and "55" will signify cars with an output of 328 to 368 hp (245 to 275 kW).
Is the Audi A7 3.0T reliable? ›The Audi A7 Quattro Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 27th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $1,251 which means it has poor ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent for the A7 Quattro, so you may experience a few more visits to your Audi shop than normal.
Which Audis have the 3.0 supercharged? ›Audi's Supercharged 3-liter V6 engine was introduced in 2008 and has been a workhorse motor used in everything from the high-performance S4 and SQ5 to family haulers and large sedans like the Q7 and A6.
What does Audi supercharged mean? ›The Audi Supercharger Explained
Since the belt driven supercharger goes up in speed with the engine, its output is directly related to engine RPM and therefore is instantly able to make pressure when you step on the gas. This characteristic is the reason a supercharger has better throttle response than a turbo.
While a newer model of the Audi A6 has respectable reliability, the 2010 model is the most reliable according to U.S. News. This mid-size luxury sedan can be had at a deal, averaging $13,000. The 2010 model of Audi's A6 features a standard turbocharged V6 on AWD models.
What does the T in 3.0T mean? ›The T in 3.0T means TFSI, Audi's forced induction system. It doesn't matter if a turbo or a supercharger is used, it's still TFSI. The Audi A8L W12 (12-cylinder) engine is normally aspirated (no forced induction) so that is an FSI system as opposed to TFSI.
What is 3.0 TFSI? ›The 3.0 TFSI develops 213 kW (290 hp) and a huge 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque. It combines two state-of-the-art technologies in perfect style – gasoline direct injection and compressor supercharging. The hi-tech V6 will go into production later in the year.
What cars have the 3.0 TFSI? ›
It not only powers the S4 and A6, but the larger A7 5-door sedan and Q7 cross/utility vehicle. The engine also is used in other brands belonging to Volkswagen, Audi's parent, including versions of the VW Touareg, Porsche Cayenne and Panamera Hybrid.
Does Tfsi have supercharger? ›The 3.0 TFSI develops 290 hp and 309.78 lb-ft of torque. The T in Audi TFSI engine designations consequently no longer exclusively denotes turbo versions. It combines gasoline direct injection and supercharging. The hi-tech V6 will go into production later in the year.
What does 35 TFSI stand for? ›TFSI stands for 'Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection' and is used to signify that the engine is a turbocharged petrol unit.
Does Audi have a Supercharged engine? ›Surprisingly, it was planned as a small-volume engine for high-performance compact S4s and S5s. Now it is Audi's only V-6 available in midrange A6s and A7s, the flagship A8 sedan and Q5, SQ5 and Q7 CUVs.
Which is better turbo or supercharger? ›But each system comes with a unique set of trade-offs. For those looking to balance performance with fuel economy and efficiency, turbocharging is the better choice. For those more interested in a straightforward solution to raw horsepower, supercharging is more likely the way to go.
What does the T stand for in Audi? ›This new, all-wheel-drive Audi gets its good oomph from a 333-horsepower V-6. If you were to contemplate the model's full name, the Audi Q7 3.0T, you might assume the “T” stands for turbocharged.
Is TFSI turbo and supercharged? ›TFSI has only a turbo. TSi is twin charged and has turbo and a supercharger. The 1.4 TSi engine may be fragile as it is not strong enough to handle a turbo as well as a supercharger.
Which German car is most reliable? ›1. Volkswagen. Volkswagen is the flagship brand for the Volkswagen Group and is considered to be one of the most reliable brands on the global market.
Do Audi have transmission problems? ›Audi transmissions fitted to cars manufactured after mid-1995 are highly technical in operation. These transmissions can exhibit a number of typical auto trans problems. Sometimes these Audi transmissions may have electronic faults rather than requiring a mechanical overhaul.
Are Audi expensive to maintain? ›Audis are expensive cars to maintain. According to RepairPal, the average annual Audi repair cost is $987. This is much higher than the average across all brands, which is $652.