Used Audi RS3 2015-2020 reliability
Category: Hot hatch
The Audi RS3 isn’t the sharpest or most engaging driving machine, but few hot hatches can match its all-weather pace and high-quality interior
What should I look for in a used Audi RS3 hatchback?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
This is a performance car, so check for obvious signs of misuse, including black smoke from the exhaust, the steering wheel not sitting straight and kerbed alloys. Check the bodywork very carefully for dings and dents picked up in car parks, and check the underside of the car for any damage it might have picked up going off road.
Reported problems with the RS3 are few, and owners seem happy with their cars. However, one or two reports exist of owners who have had very expensive issues with the engine, so as mentioned it’s worth buying a car with a full service history to it. Other issues centre around non-engine electrics, most of which on newer cars were fixed under warranty and speedily.
What are the most common problems with a used Audi RS3 hatchback?
Reported problems with the RS3 are few, and owners seem happy with their cars. However, one or two reports exist of owners who have had very expensive issues with the engine, so as mentioned it’s worth buying a car with a full service history to it. Other issues centre around non-engine electrics, most of which on newer cars were fixed under warranty and speedily.
Click here for more information. Contact your local Audi dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Audi RS3 hatchback reliable?
The Audi RS3 is a generally reliable car. Though it was absent from the 2023 What Car? Reliability survey, the Audi A3 featured and is a good way of gauging RS3 reliability is generally a reliable car. The A3 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 RS3: owners' reliability data
While the general consensus indicates a satisfactory level of reliability (for the A3 as a whole), with many owners experiencing trouble-free motoring over several years, some reported notable electronic and engine issues.
Dealer service received mixed feedback. Many owners praised courteous and knowledgeable staff, noting efficient and professional handling of repairs and maintenance. However, some expressed frustration over expensive repair costs and lengthy wait times for service appointments.
