2018 Audi Q3 Problems You Should Be Aware Of Before Purchasing!

The luster of luxury, the peak of tech, and the smoothness of handling meet together to build the Audi Q3. Its compact design and responsive drivetrain are praised by many. Yet, some owners face several common problems with this model, especially the 2018 model.

So, what are the 2018 Audi Q3 problems? The most common problems include-

• Engine problems
• Transmission problems
• Suspension problems
• Cooling problems, and
• Electrical problems.

Each of these categories includes multiple minor problems that we will discuss here. We discourage DIY fixes regarding these problems unless you are experienced with the vehicle. Let’s dive into more detail.

2018 Audi Q3 Problems Chart

We organized the problems into respective categories. Have a look before the detailed discussion.

Category	Problem
Engine Problems	Sudden stalling
	Engine misfiring
	Unusual noise from the engine
Transmission Problems	Hard shifting
	Transmission fluid leak
	Transmission slipping
	Clunking noise from the transmission
Suspension Problems	Stiff suspension
	Worn tie rods
Electrical Problems	Infotainment system problems
	Backup camera problems
	Faulty brake light switch
Cooling Problems	Faulty temperature gauge
	Low coolant problem
Build Problems	15. Faulty and leaky moonroof

2018 Audi Q3 Problems: What Are the Causes?

Let’s start the discussion with common engine problems in the Audi Q3 for the model year 2018. This will help you to make an informed decision if you think about purchasing a new or used 2018 Q3. 

1. Sudden Stalling

While driving the Audi Q3, some owners faced the stalling problem. The engine loses power, and sometimes it shuts off. And the engine doesn’t start unless the gear selector is set to park. The main reason behind this problem is the weak battery. 

Solution:

As there is no solution to this problem from Audi, owners should take their car to a repair shop and get the battery checked. If the battery needs replacement, the cost can be about $300.

2. Engine Misfiring

Many Q3 owners complain about the engine misfire, especially during a cold start. The engine also misfires after shutting off accidentally. It is commonly caused by a failed timing chain in most vehicles.

Solution:

To solve the problem, owners should get the timing chain replaced by a mechanic. Without enough experience with such components, it is better not to try replacing the timing chain on your own. It can cost about $500-$1,500, depending on the parts brand and labor cost.

3. Unusual Noise From the Engine

This problem is also related to the timing chain. While revving the engine or coming to a stop, owners hear unusual noises from the engine. Knocking or rattling noises are more common. 

Solution:

If replacing the timing chain doesn’t solve this problem, a complete engine overhaul might be necessary. It will cost about $1,000-$1,500.

4. Hard Shifting

The 2018 Audi Q3 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission that has a manual mode. In automatic mode, the car drives with no noticeable problems. 

But in the manual mode, slight hesitations happen during upshifts. The problem is also present while downshifting. Many owners complain about this annoying problem.

Solution:

Get the gearbox checked, aligned, and lubed to solve this problem. It can cost about $300-$500.

5. Transmission Fluid Leak

Fluid lines that carry transmission fluid aren’t of high quality in this specific model year of Audi Q3. They deteriorate prematurely due to heat and develop cracks. This results in transmission fluid leaks that reduce the transmission performance.

Small puddles of transmission fluids are also visible under the car. The problem can also be caused by a cracked or leaked gasket. 

Solution:

Replacing fluid lines and gaskets can solve the problem. It will cost between $200 and $300.

6. Transmission Slipping

Besides hard shifting, transmission slipping is a common incident in many Audi Q3s, especially 2018 models. Drivers struggle to engage in the drive mode. And sometimes, the gear slips while upshifting or downshifting.

Solution:

A thorough checkup of the transmission system is required to solve the problem. We suggest taking the vehicle to a repair shop for a transmission check, which can cost up to $500.

7. Clunking Noise From Transmission

Even if you are able to put the vehicle in drive, weird clunking noises can appear while accelerating the vehicle. This is often related to transmission fluid leaks. The transmission becomes less responsive due to leaks. 

Solution:

Checking the transmission fluid level and topping it up will solve this problem. It will cost below $100.

8. Stiff Suspension

One of the most common complaints about the 2018 Audi Q3 is its stiff suspension. You might not notice this as much while riding on city roads. But if there are potholes or speed bumps on the road, the jerking of the suspension can be too intense.

The problem is caused by shock absorbers that aren’t properly tuned. 

Solution:

You can take the vehicle to a mechanic to tune up the suspension for the desired comfort. Suspension tuning can cost about $200-$300.

9. Worn Tie Rods

Tie rods are crucial components of the suspension system. Over time, they might face some wear. But in the 2018 Audi Q3, the rate of wear on tie rods is too high. As a result, the suspension performance drops significantly. Worn ball joints can also cause this problem.

Solution:

Get the suspension system checked for wear on these components and replace them if necessary. Depending on the parts, the cost can be about $300-$1,200.

10. Infotainment System Problems

Connecting your phone to the Audi Q3 is finicky because it doesn’t have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It makes navigation much more difficult without the built-in functionalities. Even the Bluetooth connection isn’t that stable.

Solution:

Though you can use aftermarket infotainment systems to use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, compatibility issues are common. Choose a good quality infotainment system for the car and it will cost about $400-$500.

11. Backup Camera Problems

According to user complaints on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Audi Q3 2018 has a problem with the backup camera. When the reverse gear is engaged, the backup camera doesn’t turn on. 

The problem also occurs when using the Park Assist feature. This is probably caused by faults in the electrical system that connects the camera to the dashboard.

Solution:

Getting the system checked up and replacing the faulty components might solve this problem. Electrical components will cost about $200-$300.

12. Faulty Brake Light Switch

Another common electrical problem with the 2018 Audi Q3 is faulty brake light switches. Sometimes, the brake light doesn’t come up when you depress the brake pedal. 

The same happens with indicator lights. Some users have complaints regarding faulty indicator lights.

Solution:

Checking the electrical switches of these lights is the first thing you need to do. If the switches or wires are faulty, get them replaced. It might cost less than $100.

13. Faulty Temperature Gauge

Getting the correct reading on the temperature gauge is crucial to prevent the engine from overheating. But the temperature gauge on the Audi Q3 2018 sometimes becomes stuck. As a result, users don’t get the correct temperature reading. Bad sensors or thermostats might cause this problem. 

Solution:

You need to replace the temperature sensors or the gauge if necessary. It will cost about $50-$150.

14. Low Coolant Problem

Like the low transmission fluid problem, low coolant is also common in the 2018 Audi Q3. Cracks and leaks in the cooling system are the main reasons behind coolant leaks. It results in overheating of the engine. Sometimes, the head gasket can be blown due to overheating.

Solution: 

Fixing leaks and topping up the coolant can solve this problem. The cost of these fixes can be anywhere between $100-$200.

15. Faulty and Leaky Moonroof

Though the moon roof increases the appeal of the car, the build quality isn’t satisfactory. Many users have complaints of water leaks through the moonroof. Plus, the closing mechanism of the moon roof doesn’t work perfectly all the time.

Solution:

Replacing the whole moonroof mechanism can solve this problem. But it can cost about $1,500-$2,000.

Should You Buy the 2018 Audi Q3: Pros and Cons

Though the model comes with various problems, it has some exciting features to fall for. Check its pros and cons below.

Pros

• The aggressive stance of the vehicle is charming.
• It has a praiseworthy build quality.
• Interior materials are very luxurious and comfortable.
• The vehicle comes with advanced tech.
• FCAS and other safety features are available.
• The engine is fairly durable.

Cons

• Minor electrical problems happen too often.
• Many features come as optional.

Final Thoughts

Despite the 2018 Audi Q3 problems, the driving pleasure of this vehicle is something else to many owners. Its turbocharged engine is very powerful, and the handling is impressive. Many people lean towards buying a used Audi Q3, even to this date.

But as the model comes with some common problems related to the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and cooling system, we compiled them all. You should check these problems and possible solutions before buying the car.