I’m Dan, and I’m facing a concerning issue with my 2012 Audi A3 8P 2.0 TDI (CFFB CR140). I’ve owned the car for a little over a year and have generally been very proactive with its maintenance. The cam belt and pump were replaced at 67,000 miles, and upon purchasing it at 80,406 miles, I immediately performed a full service. I even enjoy a bit of DIY customization, having created my own induction kit for a fraction of the cost of a pre-fabricated one, primarily for the enhanced sound. I also had the car remapped and changed the gearbox oil to ensure optimal performance. I consistently use lubricity enhancer in the engine oil and a double dose of Millers in the diesel fuel. The car has been running excellently, with good MPG and the ability to passively regenerate the DPF. I consider myself a fast but responsible driver.
Recently, I’ve been noticing the anti-shudder valve gunking up, causing a slight shimmy upon engine shutdown. I’ve cleaned and refitted it twice successfully. However, when I noticed a delay in ASV activation again, I decided to clean it once more. This time, I felt significant carbon buildup inside the intake manifold. Thinking I could improve things, I attempted to carefully scrape out the carbon from the initial section of the intake manifold. Regrettably, in hindsight, I believe this is where I made a critical error. After reassembling everything and taking a break, I tried to start the car. It cranked normally for a split second, but then the cranking dramatically slowed down, almost halting to around 100rpm. It sounded strained, like the battery was drained. I charged the battery and tried again. This time, it started, but the engine was idling very roughly at around 400rpm with a chuffing noise. I immediately shut it off and haven’t started it since.
I’m now deeply worried that I’ve dislodged carbon deposits into the valves, causing significant internal engine problems. I’ve scanned for error codes, but there are none, which is adding to my confusion. I’m reaching out for expert opinions on the likelihood of serious damage. Specifically, I’m hoping to understand:
- How probable is it that valves have bent due to the dislodged carbon?
- What is the likelihood of valves simply being stuck open or closed?
- While I know it was unwise now, was my DIY attempt inherently moronic?
- Is it possible that the cam belt has stretched or jumped timing as a consequence?
- Could there be damage to the rockers or other valve train components?
- Is damage to the piston rings a possibility in this scenario?
- If cylinder head removal is necessary, does the entire engine need to be removed in a 2012 Audi A3 TDI?
- Shouldn’t significant internal damage trigger error codes? The absence of codes is perplexing.
My physical limitations due to arthritis in my spine mean I only have about an hour of comfortable work time bending over the engine bay before pain becomes unbearable. I deeply regret not leaving well enough alone and am now facing a situation I’m ill-equipped to handle independently. Any insights or advice on diagnosing and potentially resolving this issue with my Audi A3 Tdi 2012 would be immensely appreciated. Thank you for considering my predicament.
Obliged,
Dan
