Oil Pressure Crisis: TT's Engine Knocking Signals Danger

I had a very similar issue with my Audi A4 1.8T (2003). Being someone with some mechanical experience, I first thought it was just the oil pressure sensor acting up, but it turned out more serious. The symptoms matched exactly, oil pressure warning light and those worrying engine knocks. Even though my engine oil level was fine and recently changed, the problem persisted. After taking it to a workshop, diagnostic tests revealed an oil pump failure. The oil pressure gauge readings were extremely low, causing insufficient lubrication to the engine components. The repair involved replacing the complete oil pump assembly and cleaning out the oil passages to remove any debris from the failing pump. Total repair cost was 755 Euro, which included parts and labor. The workshop had it done in about a day and a half. Since the repair, the engine has been running smoothly with no warning lights or unusual sounds. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you provide: Current mileage on your car, Type of engine oil being used, Any previous history of oil leakage, Whether the oil filter was replaced during the last service, If there are any other warning lights present This information would help determine if your situation is similar and whether you might be facing the same oil pump failure I experienced.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My TT has 136847 KM and I just had the oil and filter changed 5000km ago with fully synthetic 5W40. I checked underneath but found no oil leaks. The knocking sounds are most concerning, especially since they happen right when the oil pressure warning appears. Considering this happens even with proper oil viscosity and level, I suspect the oil pump failure you mentioned could indeed be the culprit. The timing between the warning light and engine knock really makes me worried about potential engine bearing damage. Before heading to the workshop, I plan to connect an external oil pressure gauge to get accurate readings. If its showing consistently low pressure like in your case, at least I will have some concrete data for the mechanics.

Thanks for providing those details. Since we seem to have identical issues and similar cars, I want to emphasize how critical this is to address quickly. After my repair, my mechanic showed me the worn oil pump components, and explained how low oil pressure had started affecting the engine bearings. The external oil pressure gauge test is a smart move. When I did this on my car, it showed readings below 10 psi at idle when it should have been around 20-25 psi. This confirmed the oil pump was failing to maintain proper pressure. Quick word of caution: even though you recently changed the oil filter, a clogged oil filter can sometimes mimic oil pump failure symptoms. In my case, we also discovered some metal particles in the old filter, which indicated bearing wear had already started. Given your mileage and symptoms matching mine exactly, Id strongly recommend getting it checked within the next few days. The total repair cost might be similar to what I paid (755 Euro), but if bearing damage has occurred, it could escalate significantly. The 5W40 oil viscosity is correct for our engines, so thats not the issue here. Have you noticed if the warning light and knocking are more prevalent at idle or higher RPMs?

Current oil pressure issues with my 136847 KM reading are definitely concerning. The external oil pressure gauge test seems essential now, especially given how your similar symptoms led to discovering an oil pump failure. The knocking occurs most often at idle, but occasionally at higher RPMs too. Going to book it in at a workshop this week since the risk of engine bearing damage isnt worth delaying. Better to tackle an oil pump replacement at 755 Euro than face major engine work. Really helpful to know about checking the oil filter for metal particles. Even though mine was just changed, Ill ask the mechanics to inspect it carefully. The combination of warning lights and knocking sounds matching your experience makes me pretty certain its beyond just an oil pressure sensor issue. Will make sure they do a full diagnosis including checking oil pressure readings and inspecting the pump. If it shows the same low pressure readings you had (under 10 psi at idle), at least I know what Im dealing with. Thanks for helping me understand what to expect with the repair process.