What to look for when buying an A8 3.0 TDI?

2017 · 3.0 TDI · 3 verified findings
"Is the A8 3.0 TDI reliable, and what should you check?"

The most frequently mentioned issue when buying a used Audi A8 3.0 TDI 2017 (D4 / facelift): Timing components and oil pump failures. Also, DPF clogging / EGR and its effects on the turbo are commonly reported.

Caution advised

Most reported issue: Timing components and oil pump failures. Service history and a test drive matter.

Engine / trim
3.0 TDI
Model years
2017

Known issues and risks

Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.

Timing components and oil pump failures

Often reported

Some 3.0 TDI versions report abnormal engine noises (camshaft noises) early on, and oil pump failures have been documented sometimes before 50,000 km

Engine Internal

DPF clogging / EGR and its effects on the turbo

Often reported

DPF clogging is reported to cause EGR failure and, in some cases, turbo vane sticking or performance loss

Exhaust Emissions

Injection system problems

Often reported

Faults in the injection system (injectors and sometimes the high-pressure pump) can cause rough running, power loss, smoke, and engine fault codes

Fuel System

Audi A8 3.0 TDI technical specs

Audi A8 3.0 TDI (2017): boot 490 L; fuel use 5,7 l/100 km (urban 7,2 l/100 km · extra-urban 4,8 l/100 km); 0–100 in 5.9 s.

Boot capacity
490 L
Fuel consumption
5,7 l/100 km (urban 7,2 l/100 km · extra-urban 4,8 l/100 km)
0–100 km/h
5.9 s
Top speed
250 km/s
Tire size
235/55 R18
Fuel tank
82 L
Dimensions (L×W×H)
5135 × 1949 × 1460 mm

Same trim, different year

201720162015201420132012201120102009

Frequently asked questions

What to look for when buying an Audi A8 3.0 TDI?+
When buying a 2017 model 3.0 TDI, check the service history, test drive, and look for engine/transmission warnings. The most commonly reported issues: timing components and oil pump failures; DPF clogging / EGR and its effects on the turbo; injection system problems.
What are the chronic problems of the Audi A8 3.0 TDI?+
The most commonly reported issues: timing components and oil pump failures; DPF clogging / EGR and its effects on the turbo; injection system problems.
Is the Audi A8 3.0 TDI reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes/no, it's best to weigh the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 3 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from Difetti fault database records; brand, fuel, engine, and generation compatibility between the source vehicle and target vehicle is verified. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.

We only publish claims we can verify. Cards come from Difetti fault records matched to this vehicle on brand, fuel, engine and generation.

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