Audi S1 VANOS Solenoid Failure Killing MPG

Had similar symptoms on a 2014 Audi S3 with the 2.0 TFSI engine. The inlet camshaft position sensor was triggering error codes, combined with low power and terrible fuel consumption. The root cause turned out to be a faulty camshaft solenoid valve that wasnt properly regulating oil pressure to the variable valve timing system. This caused timing issues and engine misfires at higher RPMs. The repair involved: Complete diagnosis with professional scan tool, Removal and replacement of inlet camshaft solenoid, Clearing fault codes and testing variable timing operation, Oil change due to possible oil sludge contamination Its a serious repair that requires specific diagnostic equipment and expertise with variable valve timing systems. The solenoid failure can potentially cause further engine damage if left unfixed, as incorrect timing can affect valve operation. Cannot do this as a DIY job since it needs proper timing verification after repair. Would strongly recommend having a certified shop handle it, as incorrect repairs can lead to much bigger problems with timing chain and valvetrain components.

Thanks for sharing the repair details. My S1 had the exact same symptoms, check engine light, higher fuel usage and drop in power at high revs. The VANOS solenoid replacement fixed everything, but curious about what you paid for the full repair? Mine came to around 850 Euro with parts and labor, wondering if that was in the right ballpark. Also, has the problem stayed fixed or did you notice any other timing-related issues pop up afterwards? I had to get my timing chain tensioner replaced about 6 months later, not sure if it was connected to the original VANOS failure.

Since fixing the inlet VANOS mechanics issue with my S3, everything has run perfectly for over 18 months now. The repair bill was much lower than yours at just 250 Euro, which covered replacing one faulty camshaft solenoid valve that was causing the variable timing problems. The issue was resolved completely with no subsequent timing chain problems. A thorough diagnostic scan confirmed the VANOS failure was isolated to the solenoid, with no damage to other components. The timing chain and tensioner showed normal wear during inspection. The key was catching the problem early before the faulty VANOS solenoid could cause more extensive engine damage. The oil change performed during repair showed minimal oil sludge, suggesting the timing system components were well-maintained despite the solenoid issue. Your higher repair cost likely included additional preventive work. Getting the tensioner replaced later was probably good preventive maintenance rather than being directly connected to the original VANOS failure. These timing components naturally wear over time regardless of solenoid issues.

I had the check engine light issue fixed last week. Initially worried about costs, but the diagnosis confirmed it was the inlet VANOS solenoid acting up. The mechanic found the variable timing system wasnt getting proper oil pressure, causing engine misfires. The repair took about 4 hours total. They replaced the faulty VANOS solenoid, did a fresh oil change, and ran several tests to verify the timing was correct. Total cost came to 850 Euro, which seemed fair considering the specialized work involved. The engine runs much smoother now, especially at higher RPMs. Fuel economy is back to normal and the check engine light hasnt returned. Really glad I got it sorted quickly before it could cause more serious engine damage. Will keep monitoring for any timing-related issues, but so far everything seems perfect. The mechanic recommended checking the timing chain tensioner at the next service interval just to be safe.