Models · Audi
Audi RS Q3 F3 buying guide
The second RS Q3, on sale from late 2019 as an SUV and a Sportback, with the updated 400PS 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder, quattro and a 7-speed S tronic. Long-term reliability is generally good, and several of the noises owners notice are known and harmless.
The versions
- 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder turbo petrol (EA855 evo, DNWA), 400PS, with an aluminium block and both direct and port injection
- 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic (DQ500) only
- quattro four-wheel drive using a Haldex coupling at the rear axle
- SUV and Sportback bodies; adaptive suspension standard on Vorsprung and optional on other trims
What to check on a second-generation RS Q3
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Noises on a cold start
What to look for: Start the engine from cold and listen at the front and the back. A light ticking from cold, a rattle from the wastegate on cold start or at part throttle, and a rattle from the exhaust flaps are the three to recognise. Ask whether the exhaust has been updated if the flap rattle is there.
Why it matters: Audi has said the cold tick and the wastegate rattle are normal on this engine. The exhaust flap rattle was acknowledged and an updated exhaust was released. Knowing which noise is which stops a harmless one putting you off a good car.
Coolant temperature on the drive
What to look for: Watch the temperature gauge or display from cold. It should rise steadily and then hold. Note a slow warm-up or a temperature that swings up and down once warm. Look for crusty coolant deposits around the front of the engine.
Why it matters: Coolant control valves on this engine can stick slightly open, which shows as temperature swings and a long warm-up. The water pump housing can also crack and lose coolant. Both are known parts with straightforward fixes.
Oil from the filler cap
What to look for: With the bonnet open and the engine idling, look at the oil filler cap and the area around it for oil being pushed out or a misty vapour. Ask how much oil the car uses between services.
Why it matters: Oil venting from the filler cap is the warning sign specialists link to a displaced needle roller in a cam follower bearing, which can damage a camshaft lobe. It affects a minority of engines. Some oil use is also reported on this engine and can ease with mileage.
Also in the full guide
- Battery drain
- Front camera and driver aids
- S tronic and Haldex servicing
- Panoramic roof leaks
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the second-generation RS Q3
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Audi.