Models · Audi
Audi S3 8L buying guide
The first S3, built from 1999 to 2003 as a three-door only, with a 1.8 20-valve turbo and quattro four-wheel drive. It made 210PS at first and 225PS from 2001.
The versions
- 1.8 20-valve turbo (APY, AMK), 210PS, 1999 to 2001
- 1.8 20-valve turbo (BAM), 225PS, 2001 to 2003
- quattro four-wheel drive using a first-generation Haldex coupling
- Three-door hatchback only
What to check on a 8L S3
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Misfire under load
What to look for: Accelerate firmly in a higher gear from low revs. Note any stutter, uneven running or flashing engine light.
Why it matters: Failed coil packs are a very common fault on this engine and cause uneven running. They are easy to replace, and specialists usually change all four together.
Lumpy idle and the diverter valve
What to look for: Listen for a lumpy idle once the engine is warm, and for a hiss when accelerating and lifting off. With the engine off, a specialist can push up on the valve's diaphragm with a finger over its vacuum pipe: it should not move.
Why it matters: A failed diverter valve is a known cause of a lumpy idle on the S3. It's a simple part to replace.
Water pump, thermostat and cambelt
What to look for: Look in the history for the last cambelt, tensioner and water pump change. On the drive, check the temperature gauge stays steady and below 90 degrees.
Why it matters: The cambelt, tensioner and water pump are due at 60,000 miles. Early water pumps had plastic impellers that could break up and damage the engine; later metal-impeller pumps fix this. A failed thermostat causes overheating.
Also in the full guide
- Oil pressure and the oil pick-up
- Rear-wheel drive and Haldex servicing
- Front knocking and windows
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 8L S3
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.