PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated April 2026
2009–2017
Model years affected
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
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Start my diagnosis →Underbody rock shields reportedly trapped road salt against the metal
Check engine light: On
Complete rear subframe corrosion reported, with owners noting that factory-installed plastic underbody rock shields trapped road salt — an ironic design detail where a rust-prevention feature accelerated corrosion, creating potential for catastrophic suspension collapse at highway speeds.
Catastrophic engine failures documented as early as 60,000 miles
Check engine light: On
Timing chain failures, oil consumption, and engine stalls dominate this nameplate's complaints, with multiple owners describing catastrophic engine failures at 60,000-107,000 miles — notably lower mileage than similar failures reported on the Audi A4.
Possibly an earlier-onset variant of the same VW Group engine-family defect seen on the Audi A4 and A6 (both).
Waits exceeding one year without a repair timeline
Check engine light: On
Widespread frustration over extended parts-availability delays, with owners reporting waits exceeding one year without a repair timeline.
Fuel odors continuing despite a prior recall
Check engine light: Off
Fuel pump flange leaks and fuel odors reported, with some owners noting the problem persisted even after a previously issued recall repair.
FSI and TFSI engines accumulate carbon buildup on the intake valves, intake, and runner flaps (P0300 series)
Check engine light: On
FSI and TFSI engines accumulate carbon buildup on the intake valves, intake, and runner flaps (P0300 series). This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 23 owner reports on file.
No-start condition after refueling, with a popping noise from the trunk
Check engine light: Off
No-start condition after refueling, with a popping noise from the trunk. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 13 owner reports on file.
This generation has a confirmed, high-volume Takata airbag recall and a separate fuel pump flange recall. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
Complete rear subframe corrosion has been reported on this generation, with owners noting that factory-installed plastic underbody rock shields trapped road salt against the metal, with the potential for suspension collapse at highway speeds. Separately, timing chain and oil consumption failures on this nameplate occur at notably lower mileage (60,000-107,000 miles) than on the Audi A4, where owners report similar engine failures later in a car's life.