Some German vehicles are known for their Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection engine (TFSI). We discussed this in detail in a previous post, which you can read here. Audi also has a variant of this engine, available for the next-generation A4, released in 2015. Learn about the Audi TFSI engine and its unique combustion delivery method.

The Inner Workings of TFSI Engines

German automobiles require upkeep and tune-ups from a VW & Audi service. The TFSI engine is no different. The Audi A4 produces up to 190 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. This is due to a new combustion deployment that works in the same style as the Miller cycle.

The Miller cycle uses a supercharger and an intake valve that stays open during the compression stroke. This leads to about a 15% boost in engine performance.

The difference, though, is in the crank angle that has been lowered from 200 to 140 degrees. A bigger boost pressure on the inlet side has also been incorporated. This minimizes the engine’s intake time without lowering its cylinder charge. With a better combustion cycle, the A4 provides a drastically improved compression ratio. In addition, the engine fully warms up in less time and also experiences significantly less friction.

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Certain automotive manufacturers and models are known to have specific problems apart from the standard wear and tear. Volkswagen vehicles are no exception, which is why it’s pivotal that you’re cognizant of issues reported by other owners of the same model and year. Here are four common Volkswagen problems for the Jetta and Passat that have been brought up by those who have owned or leased either of these models.

1. 2013 Jetta Hybrid

The check engine light is known to flash on for the 2013 Hybrid Jetta. This has typically been so for those that are still relatively new with just several thousand miles under their belt. If the light abruptly comes on, bring your vehicle to a VW & Audi service.

2. 2004 Passat

Those who drive the 2004 Passat have reported coil failure, usually when the car hits 75,000 miles, give or take several thousand miles. The coil sends power to the spark plug, and a worn coil can lead to stalling and decreased engine output. Continue Reading →

If your German car didn’t pass the last emissions test, then bring it to a VW and Audi repair center to find out why it failed. Due to the intricate parts and construction, it’s easy for a general mechanic to get the diagnosis wrong. For German vehicles, the issue is often connected to the catalytic converter. Maintain this auto part, and emissions testing should be a clear pass every time.

Why Catalytic Converters Fail

Catalytic converters wear out for multiple reasons. A typical cause is an incorrect fuel mixture. This creates too much heat, causing the catalyst to melt. Subsequently, this leads to deposit accumulation that inhibits airflow. In addition, the melted metal also leads to a gaseous buildup in the exhaust, causing the vehicle to stall.

Besides stalling and emissions test failure, here are several additional signs of a faulty converter:

• The car won’t start
• A significant loss in acceleration
• Reduction in fuel efficiency
• The Check Engine light switches on

If you have the skill, you can conduct a DIY evaluation. Pull out the oxygen sensor from the exhaust system and drive the car around the neighborhood. If there’s a noticeable change in handling, then the catalytic converter is probably clogged. Continue Reading →

Modern VW vehicles use an array of warning lights to inform you if a specific issue arises. This provides a more accurate indicator than a generic check engine light. However, if you don’t often review the vehicle user manual, you can easily forget what the VW warning lights mean. Here’s a guide for a quick reference. Refer to your manual for images or more detailed explanations of each indicator.

Pull Over if any of These Warning Indicators Appear

• Red brake light – low brake fluid
• Red thermometer – engine temperature is dangerously high or coolant level is low
• Red steering wheel – power steering failure
• Liquid pouring out of bottle – failed engine restart
• Yellow “!” with an oil canister – low to no oil pressure

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Most modern German cars contain a turbocharged direct injection (TDI) engine under the hood, hence why most VW and Audi repairs need care from a specialist mechanic. TDI engines are lauded for their ability to deliver enhanced combustion, power increase, and CO2 reduction. On the flip side, these engines are also known to have problems in cold-weather operations. Since Redmond isn’t known for extreme cold, this isn’t something you should be worried about. TDI engine maintenance, though, is still necessary if you own a vehicle outfitted with one of these bad boys.

Precautions for Winter Commuting

Diesel fluids react differently than gasoline under temperature fluctuations. When the temperature drops, the diesel fuel thickens. Hardened diesel is referred to as “gel.” Gel is sludge-like and can’t be pumped, causing the engine to shut down.

A way to minimize gel formation is to install an auxiliary heater. This keeps the engine warm and prevents a rise in fuel viscosity.

Apart from the engine, inspect the battery to be certain it’s fully charged. Batteries run less optimally in frigid weather. In addition, oil also thickens under low temperatures, thus forcing the battery to push even harder to get the engine to crank. Continue Reading →

Most modern German vehicles utilize limited slip differentials for bettering traction on slippery roads. It’s exactly for this reason that you need to bring your car to an Audi and VW service for tire checkup and alignment.

Limited Slip Differentials (LSD) Explained

Most American cars, particularly older models, use a standard differential where the left and right axle rotations are completely independent of one another. This creates an issue when one wheel drives over a slippery surface. This makes the wheel spin excessively while the other spins at a normal speed. This leads to more power flowing to the slippery wheel while power flow comes to a stop for the other. This leads to major shifting problems or even brings the car to a total halt.

A limited slip differential seeks to correct this issue by minimizing the independence between the two axles. Most LSDs use a clutch pack based system. It’s not necessary to know the precise mechanics of how the system works; all you need to understand is that the component includes friction and steel plates wedged between the casing and side gear. This allows the distribution of power so that one wheel absorbs the traction loss should the other wheel drive over a slippery road. 

For a more in-depth explanation, watch this video for a walk-through with visuals. Continue Reading →

An awesome aspect of German automobiles is that most models utilize a Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) engine. As suggested in its name, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber where it combines with the air entering from the intake manifold. The mixture is compressed and causes a spark that amplifies horsepower. Unfortunately, FSI engine carbon buildup is commonplace. Excess carbon causes restricted airflow and loss of power.

Symptoms of Carbon Buildup

If you notice signs of carbon buildup, then bring your vehicle to an Audi & VW repair center. Typical symptoms include:

• Lack of engine response
• Lag in acceleration
• Lack of response when hitting the gas pedal
• Check engine light frequently flashing on
• Misfiring, which becomes noticeable when the engine revving noise sounds erratic

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Diesel engines have a reputation for being noisy and dirty. They’re also a rarity, accounting for only 3.2% of cars in the U.S. So, why should you consider making the switch to a diesel engine vehicle given its less-than-stellar image? Well, there are four reasons why diesel engines are advantageous.

1. Diesel Engines Are a German Mainstay

In huge contrast to the U.S., 41.9% of cars sold in Germany in 2011 operated on diesel fuel. The Germans are the pioneers of early automotive technology, so if nearly half of the country’s population is willing to forgo gasoline, then it’s all the more reason for American consumers to consider doing the same. Continue Reading →

There is a lure about German cars that make them a long-time favorite among dedicated auto enthusiasts. Why are brands like VW and Audi so favored by North American consumers? There’s an element about German automobiles that distinguishes them both in terms of feel and performance. Here are a few reasons why German-imported vehicles are so idolized by American consumers.

1. German Cars are Made for the Racetrack 

German vehicles are legendary when it comes to racing. Auto racing hobbyists are familiar with Germany’s famous Nurburgring, which is the country’s and maybe even the world’s most famous motorsport complex. This is where prototype models are put to the ultimate speed and handling test. Continue Reading →

Not surprisingly, auto AC problems spike during the summer. Since German automobiles have a different engine layout than their American and Japanese counterparts, you’ll need to take your car to a VW & Audi repair service. If you drive the VW Jetta and are experiencing inconsistencies with the AC, you might be able to troubleshoot the issue. If you’re an avid weekend mechanic, try the following steps. Otherwise, leave the VW Jetta AC repair to a licensed mechanic.

Try These Steps for DIY Auto AC Repair

Start the ignition and let the car run for a minute. Adjust the climate control and see if it affects the air temperature. If not, then you probably have a blown fuse. If you don’t hear the typical blowing sound or hardly feel the air, then the culprit may be a faulty fan or worn blower motor. Continue Reading →