2009 B8 3.2 Reliability?

[jfungy]

Hi, I apologize if this is a well discussed issue, but I was not able to find a lot about this via the search function. I'm interested in purchasing a vehicle and the A4 3.2 is in the shortlist, because it doesn't have the 2.0T engine which is said to have oil consumption issues during these years. I read a lot about the 2.0T having issues in the early B8 model years, but I can't seem to find any large issues with the B8 3.2 models. Can anyone comment on their reliability?

Thank you!

[bluefox280]

Because the US-Spec B8 A4 never came with the 3.2L engine.
However, the US-Spec A5 did... You can search the other forum or the 3.2L tech.

The short of it, because the 3.2L doesn't have any forced induction, the engine is pretty rock solid.
Proper maintenance, like frequent oil changes, are the key for longevity.

- Erik

[Articus]

Because the US-Spec B8 A4 never came with the 3.2L engine.
However, the US-Spec A5 did... You can search the other forum or the 3.2L tech.

The short of it, because the 3.2L doesn't have any forced induction, the engine is pretty rock solid.
Proper maintenance, like frequent oil changes, are the key for longevity.

- Erik

B8 A4 was sold with 3.2L engine in 2009 MY only for US

http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...wners-Welcome)

[bluefox280]

B8 A4 was sold with 3.2L engine in 2009 MY only for US

I stand corrected - good to know; thanks for clarification!

- Erik

[Audi 4 Life]

just make sure the timing belt has been serviced other than that they are pretty easy to keep up on maintenece.

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[6banger]

V6 comes with a timing chain.

[jfungy]

Hi 6banger, I was wondering if the 3.2 in the B8 is prone to carbon buildup? If so, is it easy to clean up the valves DIY? Also I was wondering if you can give some insight on the MPG of this car in city driving?

Thanks!

[CONative]

Not trying to steal thunder from 6banger but given the 3.2 is GDI, it would be just as prone to carbon buildup as the 2.0 I believe. Only difference being you have two additional cylinders to clean.


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[Zach L]

Hi 6banger, I was wondering if the 3.2 in the B8 is prone to carbon buildup? If so, is it easy to clean up the valves DIY? Also I was wondering if you can give some insight on the MPG of this car in city driving?

Thanks!

Every engine with direct injection will have carbon build up on the intake valves ...UNLESS the engine has additional port fuel injectors to wash the intake valves clean with fuel. Any type of fuel system cleaner, injector cleaner, SeaFoam, etc. will do nothing to eliminate carbon build up.

The 3.2 in the 2009 B8 is direct injection like the 2.0T. It also has a timing chain like the 2.0T. The advantage it has over the 2.0T is increased factory power/torque and no major oil consumption issues. I would say it's the more reliable of the two engine options. That said, I'd take the 2.0T. Also, if reliability is determining what car you buy, don't buy any Audi.

[Project Quattro]

Out of curiosity OP, why are you looking for a 3.2 specifically? They're great cars, it just seems a surprisingly niche choice.


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[Streeter9x]

I would just add that the VR6 is a solid engine, and in my opinion one of the best sounding 6s out there. My friend's VR6 GTI has 250k miles and still runs like it's brand new. My 3.2L A3 at 60k miles so far has been incredibly satisfying. Neither eats a drop of oil. Sufficiently torquey. Timing chain isn't on Audi's maintenance schedule, and there are no high pressure fuel pumps and associated issues to deal with. Obviously I'm a fan. :) Btw it sounds just beastly with a good intake.


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[Greg Nelson]

Suggest OP peruse this thread: http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...wners-Welcome)
(Disclaimer, blatant - I created it way back )
Contains lots of info re 3.2 V6.
Was only available 2009 and had Tiptronic only IIRC. There were a few Canadian owners here (Audacious was one), have probably sold them.

Still have mine (extremely low mileage). Get a 3-spoke wheel with paddle shifters and have fun

Those posting incorrect info here - contact the White House Alternate Facts Office - they may want to offer you a position
Cheers

[Zach L]

I would just add that the VR6 is a solid engine, and in my opinion one of the best sounding 6s out there. My friend's VR6 GTI has 250k miles and still runs like it's brand new. My 3.2L A3 at 60k miles so far has been incredibly satisfying. Neither eats a drop of oil. Sufficiently torquey. Timing chain isn't on Audi's maintenance schedule, and there are no high pressure fuel pumps and associated issues to deal with. Obviously I'm a fan. :) Btw it sounds just beastly with a good intake.

The V6 in the A4 is not a VR6. Other than it having 6 cylinders, it's in no way related to the engine in your friend's VR6 GTI or the 3.2L VR6 in your A3.

[Streeter9x]

The V6 in the A4 is not a VR6. Other than it having 6 cylinders, it's in no way related to the engine in your friend's VR6 GTI or the 3.2L VR6 in your A3.

My bad - part of my complete and utter confusion of trying to pick out one of these cars or finding parts. Mine doesn't say VR6 on it anywhere, just V6.

[ninjatom]

I purchased an 09 3.2 with 53k in October this past year. I've changed the oil twice and experienced no issues mechanically. I have however had two issues of electrical gremlins that I've found frustrating. One day while driving home in a rain storm the car decided to go into limp mode and my wipers stopped working. It then wouldn't start after I got home and had to have it towed to the local dealer. $200 later and I was on my way with no issues. This very morning actually a warning light saying my rear lights aren't working came on. I checked them and they are indeed working, so that will be something to figure out.

Overall I love the car. The 3.2 is pretty thirsty around town, where i usually get 13-17 mpg. On the highway or back roads I can easily average 29-32 mpg with a combined average usually around 23 mpg which is damn close to my old Subaru.