2017 Audi RS3: common problems and reliability

The 2017 Audi RS3 has 1 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are visibility/wiper. Owners most often flag understeer handling characteristic — described as an audi trait, with the rs3 still exhibiting understeer despite the torque-vectoring rear differential. frequency: recurrent.

Safety record for the 2017 model year

1
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
0
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2017 Audi RS3 vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

visibility/wiper
1

Recalls affecting the 2017 RS3

air bags:sensor:occupant classification

Campaign 19V474000

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Audi S3 Sedan, 2015-2019 A3 Sedan and A3 Cabriolet, 2016-2018 A3 e-tron, and 2017-2019 RS3 vehicles. An improper electrical contact may cause the Pa

What owners say across generations

The sentiment is strongly positive, centered on the vehicle's unique and highly praised 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine (codenamed DAZA). This engine is consistently described as "iconic," "special," and delivering a "symphony" of sound, forming the c

  • Understeer handling characteristic — described as an Audi trait, with the RS3 still exhibiting understeer despite the torque-vectoring rear differential. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Interior material quality — hard plastics present, door card pockets unlined, some parts feel cheap for the segment, interior recognized as based on the lower-tier A3. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Vague steering feel — lacks communication and feedback compared to rivals, described as "pretty vague." Frequency: recurrent.
  • Engine reliability concerns (isolated, severe) — one owner report of a serious engine failure in an RS3 DNWA, involving misfires, metal shavings in oil, and internal damage. Frequency: isolated.
  • High maintenance costs — cited as typical for German performance vehicles; example given of front brake pads costing approximately $5,000 USD. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the RS3.