Used Audi TT review

Likes

Ignore the negative connotations, it’s a real sports car.
Surprisingly practical (for what it is).
Many of the typical VW/Audi mechanical gremlins have been sorted.
Being the last of its breed, could be a future classic.

Dislikes

Parts and maintenance can be expensive.
It’s improved but is still guilty of some of the typical VW/Audi reliability concerns.
Not as focussed a drivers car as much of the competition.
Your friends may incorrectly regard the TT as a fake sports car.

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Publish: January 7, 2024

Stuff you should know

Let’s set the stage: the revolutionary first-generation Audi TT made its debut 25 years ago however, in this cheat sheet, our focus will be on the third generation, produced from 2015 to 2023, which unfortunately marks the final iteration. Available as either a coupe or convertible, catering to various preferences, with no intention of stereotyping hairdressers—we’re just kidding, of course.

Within this generation, there are two iterations, with the 2018 to 2023 post-update introducing slight visual changes, technological enhancements, and the customary updates.

Sharing its platform and numerous mechanical components with more performance-oriented Volkswagen Golf models, internationally, various 4-cylinder engines were on offer. In Australia, however, we received the 2.0-litre turbo in two different states of tune, depending on the model. Additionally, there’s the more intense 5-cylinder turbo TT RS, a beast deserving of its own dedicated discussion.

Depending on the model year, you can opt for either front-wheel drive or Quattro all-wheel drive. Transmission options include 6-speed manuals or 6-7 speed dual-clutch transmissions.

Moving on to trim specifications, internationally, there’s a multitude of variants, but locally, hardtops are available in four flavours, with a recent addition of a Final Edition. Soft tops come in five variants, and due to the array of optional extras, TTs of the same trim spec may vary considerably.

For an in-depth understanding of the various trim specs and their inclusions, refer to the details below.

While a used third-generation TT may appear appealing, combining style, performance, practicality, and a premium image at an affordable price, it’s crucial to bear in mind that Volkswagen and Audi haven’t always boasted stellar records in terms of reliability and mechanical robustness. Does the TT suffer from similar issues? Continue reading to find out.

What goes wrong

Exterior:

One prominent issue involves water leakage in the spoiler area, where water infiltrates the tailgate through blocked drainage holes or degraded seals around mounting bolts. This can adversely affect electronic components like number plate lights and the boot release. It is essential to exercise caution when attempting a DIY fix, especially around the reversing camera, as improper handling may necessitate recalibration.

Numerous complaints exist regarding water seepage, prompting recommendations to join owner groups for valuable insights. In colder climates, a peculiar challenge arises, where the window mechanism may freeze as the glass drops to open or close the door, resulting in difficulties in proper door closure. Using lukewarm water along the window seal is advised for resolution.

Convertible owners have reported water ingress into the cabin due to blocked drain holes, leading to potential electrical issues affecting the sound system and electric seats. Regular maintenance to clear drainage holes is crucial to prevent such problems. While sporadic electronic gremlins have been mentioned, they are not widely reported.

Interior:

Some owners have experienced issues with rear seats not folding, where the cable remains attached at the top of the pulley but fails to unlock the seats. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the durability of side trim on seats, particularly in pre-update models where plastic trim can break easily.

Pre-update speakers may not withstand high volumes of loud music and are prone to blowing. Complaints about the HVAC system include instances where all three vents cease working, often attributed to servo issues. Occasionally, buttons on the system may become brittle and break, though these issues are generally not complex to fix but can be annoying.

A few owners have noted a slow startup of the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit screen, but it eventually functions. Sporadic reports of electronic issues exist, emphasising the importance of thoroughly testing all features before purchase.

Mechanically:

The most common and somewhat expensive fault involves the water pump and thermostat module, known to fail early and frequently. Non-genuine pumps are reported to outlast genuine parts.

Engine breather (PCV) complications are prevalent, leading to coked-up inlet valves, requiring cleaning processes like chemical and walnut blast.

PCV issues may worsen, oil leaks, particularly in valve cover, timing cover seals, or the rear main oil seal can occur. The rear main oil seal leak also requires the transmission to be removed to fix it, at a substantial cost.

Poorly serviced units may experience timing chain complications. Age-related problems associated with engine bay plastics, like the water pump, are common and will continue to get worse.

The DSG transmission has faced criticism for potential frequent failures, but proper and timely servicing tends to mitigate issues. DSG position sensor and

Exterior:

One prominent issue involves water leakage in the spoiler area, where water infiltrates the tailgate through blocked drainage holes or degraded seals around mounting bolts. This can adversely affect electronic components like number plate lights and the boot release. It is essential to exercise caution when attempting a DIY fix, especially around the reversing camera, as improper handling may necessitate recalibration.

Numerous complaints exist regarding water seepage, prompting recommendations to join owner groups for valuable insights. In colder climates, a peculiar challenge arises, where the window mechanism may freeze as the glass drops to open or close the door, resulting in difficulties in proper door closure. Using lukewarm water along the window seal is advised for resolution.

Convertible owners have reported water ingress into the cabin due to blocked drain holes, leading to potential electrical issues affecting the sound system and electric seats. Regular maintenance to clear drainage holes is crucial to prevent such problems. While sporadic electronic gremlins have been mentioned, they are not widely reported.

Interior:

Some owners have experienced issues with rear seats not folding, where the cable remains attached at the top of the pulley but fails to unlock the seats. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the durability of side trim on seats, particularly in pre-update models where plastic trim can break easily.

Pre-update speakers may not withstand high volumes of loud music and are prone to blowing. Complaints about the HVAC system include instances where all three vents cease working, often attributed to servo issues. Occasionally, buttons on the system may become brittle and break, though these issues are generally not complex to fix but can be annoying.

A few owners have noted a slow startup of the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit screen, but it eventually functions. Sporadic reports of electronic issues exist, emphasising the importance of thoroughly testing all features before purchase.

Mechanically:

The most common and somewhat expensive fault involves the water pump and thermostat module, known to fail early and frequently. Non-genuine pumps are reported to outlast genuine parts.

Engine breather (PCV) complications are prevalent, leading to coked-up inlet valves, requiring cleaning processes like chemical and walnut blast.

PCV issues may worsen, oil leaks, particularly in valve cover, timing cover seals, or the rear main oil seal can occur. The rear main oil seal leak also requires the transmission to be removed to fix it, at a substantial cost.

Poorly serviced units may experience timing chain complications. Age-related problems associated with engine bay plastics, like the water pump, are common and will continue to get worse.

The DSG transmission has faced criticism for potential frequent failures, but proper and timely servicing tends to mitigate issues. DSG position sensor and mechatronics problems are less common than perceived. AWD versions with Haldex systems perform well with regular servicing.

Oil consumption is a known issue in this engine family, emphasising the importance of a thorough and documented service history.

Despite being a high-performance luxury car, the service schedule is comparable to an ordinary Audi. Similar underpinnings as the Golf, Golf R, and S3 result in comparable servicing costs, with a water pump replacement every few years.

The major mechanical issues often arise from terrible modifications, poor tuning and driving with minimal mechanical sympathy.

We would strongly avoid modified examples as no matter what anyone tells you, extracting copious amounts of extra horsepower will impact reliability.

If the modified TT has received only a light tune, features the highest quality accessories and you can categorically prove the car has been fastidiously maintained, we’d still be very cautious.