A Guide to Direct Ignition Coil Replacement for the 2015-2020 Audi A3 Quattro
If your turbocharged A3 is running rough, a failing ignition coil is a likely and easy-to-fix problem.
- A flashing check engine light is a critical warning to stop driving to prevent catalytic converter damage.
- Replacing ignition coils is a very easy DIY job that can be done in under an hour with basic tools.
- For best results and to prevent future headaches, always replace all four ignition coils and spark plugs at the same time.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Bremi and Accel are reliable, cost-effective alternatives to expensive dealer parts.
Is Your Audi A3 Misfiring or Losing Power?
A common cause for a rough-running 2.0T engine in the 2015-2020 Audi A3 is a failing ignition coil. These parts work hard in a hot engine bay and typically wear out over time, with failures often seen around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. When a coil starts to go bad, it can't deliver enough voltage to the spark plug, leading to an incomplete burn of fuel in the cylinder, known as a misfire.
🎬 Watch this video to see a misfire issue diagnosed.Flashing Check Engine Light: A Serious Warning
If your check engine light is flashing, it signals a constant and severe misfire. You should pull over and stop driving as soon as it is safe. Continuing to drive with a flashing check engine light can cause unburnt fuel to enter the exhaust, potentially destroying your expensive catalytic converter.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
For the Audi A3, you don't need to buy the most expensive part from the dealer to get your car running smoothly again. Quality aftermarket brands provide a reliable and affordable alternative. When one coil fails, it's a strong sign that the others are near the end of their service life. For this reason, it is highly recommended to replace all four ignition coils at the same time. It is also best practice to replace all four spark plugs during the job.
- OEM-Equivalent Brands: Brands like Bremi are often Original Equipment (OE) suppliers to German automakers. This means they manufacture the parts that are put into an Audi-branded box. Choosing a brand like this gives you dealer-level quality without the dealer price tag.
- Standard Aftermarket Brands: Brands like Accel offer a direct replacement that meets or exceeds factory specifications. They are designed to be a reliable, budget-friendly fix. Reviews often note a smoother idle and good value.
Pro Tip: Easy DIY Replacement
Replacing the ignition coils on your A3 is one of the easiest DIY jobs you can do. The coils are located right on top of the engine, under the plastic engine cover. The job requires only basic hand tools and can be completed in under an hour. Simply pop off the engine cover, disconnect the electrical connector, unbolt a ground wire, and pull the old coil straight out. Push the new one in, reconnect everything, and you're done.
🎬 See this walkthrough for changing your plugs and coils.Cost of Replacing an Ignition Coil on a 2015-2020 Audi A3 Quattro
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost (Single Coil) |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part | $30 - $50 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $35 - $82 |
| Shop Labor | $52 - $76 |
| Total at a Shop (1 Coil) | $168 - $242 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary by location and repair shop. It is highly recommended to replace all four coils at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace all four ignition coils at once?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Ignition coils on a vehicle are the same age and have been exposed to the same conditions. If one fails, the others are likely to fail soon after. Replacing them all at once saves you from repeating the repair in the near future.
Should I replace my spark plugs with the ignition coils?
Yes, it is best practice to replace the spark plugs at the same time you replace the ignition coils. Worn spark plugs can put extra strain on the new coils, potentially causing them to fail prematurely. Since you already have the coils out, accessing the spark plugs takes no extra labor.
Are there any recalls for the 2015-2020 A3 ignition coils?
No, searches of the NHTSA database did not find any safety recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) specifically for ignition coil failure on the 2015-2020 Audi A3. While older Audi models had known coil issues, this generation does not have a specific recall for this part.
How do I know which cylinder is misfiring?
An OBD-II scanner will give you a specific code. Codes P0301, P0302, P0303, and P0304 correspond to cylinders 1, 2, 3, and 4. On the Audi 2.0T engine, cylinder 1 is at the front of the engine (closest to the belts), and the count goes up toward the firewall.
🎬 Watch how to check codes and swap your coil packs.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 06E905115G 06E905115F 06E905115E 06E905115D 06E905115C 06E905115B 06E905115A 06E905115
Direct 'Coil-on-Plug' Ignition Coil
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi A3 Quattro:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi A3 Misfiring or Losing Power?
- Flashing Check Engine Light: A Serious Warning
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Pro Tip: Easy DIY Replacement
- Cost of Replacing an Ignition Coil on a 2015-2020 Audi A3 Quattro
- Frequently Asked Questions
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