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marawolf3

Audi S1 Oil Pressure Warning, Hidden Sludge Problem

Looking for advice on my Audi S1 (2018) showing concerning oil pressure warnings. The warning light keeps coming on in the speedometer cluster. After checking the oil level, which appears normal, I suspect engine oil contamination might be the issue. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms and oil pressure warnings on their S1? Would be great to hear about repair solutions and what was actually causing the problem. Specifically interested in potential oil sludge buildup or other oil-related issues that could trigger these warnings. What did the workshop diagnose and how was it fixed?

4 comment(s)

matteodark1

Had the exact same issue with my Audi S2 2016. I have some experience working on cars and noticed similar oil pressure warnings. After getting multiple warnings, I took it to a workshop since oil pressure issues can lead to serious engine damage if ignored. The diagnostic revealed oil contamination and early signs of oil sludge formation due to extended maintenance intervals. The oil filter was completely clogged, restricting proper oil flow. The fix included: Complete oil system flush, New oil filter replacement, Fresh oil change, Pressure sensor check Total cost was 165 Euro and it solved the problem completely. No warnings since then. To help diagnose your case more accurately, could you share: Current mileage, Last oil change date, Type of oil currently used, Any unusual engine sounds, Driving conditions (short/long trips) Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent oil sludge buildup. Getting these warning lights checked promptly helps avoid more expensive repairs later.

marawolf3 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Audi S1 has 143191 KM and my last service was just 2 months ago. The oil color looked normal during my visual inspection, clean and amber, not dark or contaminated. I did notice the warnings appear more frequently during cold starts and when the engine is under load. No unusual engine sounds so far, but the oil pressure warning is concerning given the potential for engine damage. Interesting that your fix included a system flush. Might be worth checking if my oil filter is also clogged since the symptoms sound very similar to your case. Will look into getting the pressure sensor tested as well. Have booked a diagnostic appointment to catch any issues early.

matteodark1

Glad youre getting it checked. Your symptoms definitely mirror what I experienced on my S2, especially the warnings during cold starts and under load. This pattern actually helped the workshop diagnose my issue faster. The fact that your oil color looks clean is a good sign, but its not always a reliable indicator of oil pressure problems. My oil also looked fine visually, but the real issue was deeper in the system where sludge had started forming in hard-to-see areas. Since your last oil change was recent, I would strongly suspect either: A failing oil pressure sensor, Partial blockage in the oil passages, Oil pump showing early wear In my case, even after regular oil changes, small amounts of contamination had built up over time. The system flush made a huge difference by clearing all oil passages properly. The workshop might want to: 1. Test the oil pressure directly with a gauge 2. Check the oil pump condition 3. Inspect for any oil additives or residue Keep tracking when those warnings appear, this information helps narrow down the exact cause. Given the potential for engine damage from oil pressure issues, your quick response in getting it diagnosed is the right move.

marawolf3 (Author)

Thanks for the input. You've given me good insights about handling these oil pressure warnings. My case does sound quite similar with the cold start symptoms especially. Actually just got back from the workshop today. The diagnostic showed a partially failed oil pressure sensor giving false readings. They also did a thorough check of the oil pump and passages but found no sludge or oil contamination issues. The recent oil change probably helped prevent any buildup. For reference, they replaced the faulty sensor and ran some tests. Total repair came to 220 Euro including labor. The warning lights have completely stopped now. Going to keep monitoring the situation, but seems like catching it early helped avoid any serious engine damage. Thanks again for helping me understand these oil-related problems better. Will definitely stay on top of regular maintenance to prevent future issues.

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