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Audi A2 Diesel 2003: Symptoms indicate possible EGR valve problems

Unsteady engine

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Shaking while idling

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Loss of engine power

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Engine shuts off by itself

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Check engine light on

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Strong exhaust smell

Hi folks, I have a problem with my 2003 Audi A2 Diesel, which I have already driven 176,543 km in. For some time now it has been showing some symptoms, e.g. the "Check-Engine" indicator light comes on, the engine switches off by itself, there is a loss of power and the engine runs rough. It also smells strongly of exhaust, especially when idling and when stationary, it shakes a lot. I suspect that this has something to do with the EGR valve, but I'm not sure and before I go to the mechanic again (last time wasn't so good), I wanted to hear your experiences. Have any of you had similar problems and if so, how did you deal with them? I look forward to your answers!

(Translated from German)

4 comment(s)


LudwigSimonRacer

Hello, I had similar problems with my 2006 Audi A4 diesel. The EGR valve was actually the culprit in my case. The symptoms seemed very familiar to me - rough idling, loss of power, shaking when stationary and that exhaust smell. The guys at the workshop then removed the EGR valve and cleaned the whole system. That solved the problem for me. They said that sometimes it is simply defective or jammed and that can lead to a loss of power and the symptoms you described. So an EGR valve defect like this doesn't seem to be unusual and isn't really a huge drama. Nevertheless, I recommend that you have it checked as soon as possible, because it's not good for the engine in the long run. Good luck with that!

(Translated from German)

StefBai (Author)

Hey, thanks for your quick reply! Now my suspicions about the EGR valve are even more confirmed. Can you remember how much it cost you at the garage? And have you had any similar or other problems with your Audi since then? I already realize that I should act as quickly as possible to avoid major damage to the engine. Thank you!

(Translated from German)

LudwigSimonRacer

Hey, you're welcome! Fortunately, the functional fault in the EGR valve had been rectified since the workshop visit and my Audi is now running like clockwork again. The whole thing cost me €355 at the time. For that price, they replaced the EGR valve and cleaned everything thoroughly. Since then, I haven't really had any more problems. So, don't hesitate and get it repaired as soon as possible. It's worth it!

(Translated from German)

StefBai (Author)

Great, that definitely sounds like a procedure I should tackle. Your testimonial is really helpful. I was a bit worried that it might be more expensive, but €355 sounds acceptable imho. I'm hoping this will completely fix the problem with my Audi and then I can drive again without worrying all the time. Thanks again for your help! Will definitely go to the garage then.

(Translated from German)

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