2006 Audi A3 Sportback

Overview

First launched in 1996. The Audi A3 is a small family subcompact car produced by the Volkswagen Group under the Group A platform. It was initially available only as a 3-door hatchback and was only available in select markets. In June 2004 the 5 door Sportback was introduced. 2005 was also the first year the A3 was available in the North American market, exclusively with the Sportback body.

The 2006 model is the 2nd generation of the A3 platform which was produced from 2003 until 2012. This generation saw many changes, particularly to the engine and drivetrain. The 2006 model was equipped with a more powerful 2.0 turbocharged FSI engine.

It was the first year model to feature this type of engine. It is identified by the engine code BPY. Apart from the engine, other notable differences from the previous generation were the headlights, taillights, and a “single frame” front grill, which would become Audi’s signature style.

Audi’s hatchback is similar to Volkswagen’s Golf as it shares the same Group A platform. Both the A3 and Golf MK5 are based on the A5 PQ35 platform. But it is not marketed as a hatchback but rather a Sportback. Noticeable differences between the two are body styling. Both have basically the same drivetrain and both are available in all-wheel drive.

Models

The A3 is available in four different editions or models. The base model. The S-Line, S3, and the RS3. However, the S3 was not available to the U.S. market until 2013 and it was only available as a sedan. Making the S3 Sportback only available in the European market. And more unfortunate for us, the RS3 has yet to make it to American shores.

S-Line

However, since there were no sport options available to the U.S. market the S-Line was added in 2005. It was available in two configurations. The 2.0-liter and the 3.2-liter engine. The S-Line is basically a more sporty trim package that included additional features and styling as well as sports suspension.

A3 Trim Packages

Base or Standard.

Sport.

Premium.

Cold Weather.

Common Problems

Were looking at common problems in the 2006 model year only. Not across the entire A3 range. Even though the MK2 A3 was produced from 03 to 12 some models might experience problems where others may not. So we will focus on the 2006 model year only because that is the year this project is focusing on.

Most of the problems found in the 06 models are engine related. And this has a lot to do with the FSI engine. As you might recall this is the first generation of this configuration of engines produced. So by default, you can expect some problems since a lot of the technology and engineering has changed since the 1.8T. But as far as the rest of the problems found with the other year models the 06 seems to have lucked out.

2.0 FSI BPY Common Problems

Oil Consumption

If you have owned or driven an Audi or Volkswagen that’s equipped with an FSI engine then you have probably noticed that the Low Oil Level light has probably come on sooner than expected. This is especially common in higher mileage engines.

There is not a specific component that accounts for this problem but rather a poorly designed PCV system. Since the introduction of this engine and awareness of the problem, there are aftermarket solutions and upgrades available to the PCV system.

High Pressure Fuel Pump

This fault does however point to a specific component. The problem occurs over time as the cam lobes on the High-Pressure Fuel Pump cam wear out. This is due to the manufacturing process of the camshaft itself and the materials or hardening methods used to produce it.

Another problem associated with the fuel pump is the cam follower. It too can wear out over time and cause damage to the fuel pump and camshaft. One way to correct this is to periodically inspect the cam follower for excessive wear and replace it as necessary. Another solution is to replace the camshaft with the updated J version and cam follower.

Carbon Buildup

One of the major changes following the release of the FSI engine was the introduction of Direct Injection. But this major achievement and advancement also brought with it some challenges. With direct injection, the fuel is directly sprayed into the combustion chamber during the compression stroke.

On a normal fuel-injected engine the fuel is sprayed into the intake manifold during the intake stroke allowing the fuel to be carried into the engine from the suction or vacuum of the piston. This has one effect that direct injection does not. It enables the fuel to be drawn over the valves and thereby indirectly cleaning them. On the direct injection version, this cleaning does not occur so over time large amounts of carbon can build up causing poor engine performance.

Recalls

Drivers Side Front Air Bag

Vehicles Affected. 2006-2013 Audi A3’s. The inflator may rupture or explode during deployment.

Side Curtain Air Bag

Vehicles Affected. Certain models. Either left or right side inflator bag may leak as a result of a defect during production.

Fuel Tank Ventilation Valve

Vehicles Affected. 2006-2010. Certain model years may have a defective valve spring that may allow fuel to leak during extreme driving conditions.