Friendly hello from a VAG group tech to all the members here on AudiForums.ca

Full disclosure: I am a VAG workshop/garage owner. Helping members on another forum (RFD Automotive section) but I wanted to create a thread to help out members here.


Ask away!

 

Welcome

a few questions regarding a 2009 A3

why do 2.0T motors sound like a diesel?
why is there so much road noise coming into the car?
what is your opinion of stage 1 chip kits for 2009 A3 2.0T from APR -http://www.goapr.com/?

Thanks

 

Sorry for the delay! Busy day at the shop...friendly reminder to all Audi owners to stay on top of their timing belt/waterpump changes!

 

Thanks for the welcome!

In part, the reason why 2.0T motors sound so 'dieselly' is that Audi in fact incorporated some diesel technologies for this gasoline motor . Specifically, the high pressure injectors and pump. So instead of the usual 60 or so PSI, you're looking at about 3000PSI going through the rail.

With respect to the road noise, the A3 is more or less a glorified VW. I know you may not like that answer but it is an entry level model in the Audi lineup. The insulation is not as thick as what you may find in the A4.

The Stage 1 chip kits are a good and safe way to raise HP. (~30 or so IIRC). The only thing I would caution is once you're on the mod road...there's no turning back!

 

Thank you for the info. 3000PSI wow.


I posted another issue and sent you a PM.

https://www.audiforum.ca/2nd-gen-a3-...47/#post190193

Thanks
Shaun

 

I just bought an '03 Audi A4 1.8T. It has been making a loud howling noise whenever I drive. I think it may just be that it has an aftermarket AEM Cold air intake and no airbox. I have ordered one and I plan on putting the stock air filter and everything on it. I just wanted to make sure it isnt possibly the turbo. I've never owned a car with turbo and I've never owned a german car. Please help. I love the car by the way. Also i have done a lot of looking on the web and differrnt forums. I will keep posted once I get the airbox and get it installed.

Thanks,

Kenny

 

Hey Shaun,

Replied to your PM!

 

Hey Kenny,

Are you able to distinguish if it is indeed a motor noise or a road noise? You may be hearing a wheel bearing but it seems as if its coming from the motor. Try rev'ving the car in neutral (not in motion)...does the sound still occur?

It may well be the AEM intake but a properly installed one would not create a loud howling noise.

If you'd like bring it by the shop and we can take a quick look at it for you!

 

Sorry, I meant to put that I did rev the engine while nuetral and didnt hear it. When I look under the hood while running I can hear a mild sound, almost non existent coming from the passenger side of the engine around where the airbox should be. The air duct coming from the side of the engine bay is open so I was thinking it could just be the airflow coming in from that or something. the CEL is flashing a code for the emissions vacuum leak. Someone told me that usually in turbo engine is the turbo vacuum.

Thanks for the response and any help you are able to give.

Kenny

 

Hey Kenny,

If you are not hearing the noise while the vehicle is in neutral, there is a good chance its a wheel bearing. Does the sound occur at certain speeds/RPM?

The mild/non-existent sound you are hearing is more than likely just air being pulled in...due to the missing airbox.

This is very important...is the CEL actually flashing? If it is flashing, you have misfires...do not drive the vehicle; there is chance you can damage your cat.

Commonly vacuum leaks do occur in the turbo/PCV system. Do have the code?