Query 3.2 Quatro - handling plus odd noise

[aliceofthefirs]

I have just changed my V reg A4 2.8 quattro for a 3 year old low mileage 3.2 A3 sportback quattro DSG and am finding the ride over anything other than a smooth surface is very unsettling, the rear seems to have a mind of its own and follows every undulation and inspires very little confidence. When pushed hard this is less obvious and am wondering if this ( and low speed understeer ) is a feature of this model, the A3 range in general or just this car! also wether tyre choice may improve matters( currently Michelin)
The second thing I need help with is a rat-ta-ta-tat noise when pulling away from a junction, even with gentle acceleration. it goes away after 10mph ish and is more evident when turning right - Any ideas anyone?

[John @ DW]

I have a manual 3.2 and the ride on the standard suspension was not too hot and quite choppy, but not at all like you describe. also the low speed under steer does not sound right either. The 3.2 does under steer a lot when pushed because of the heavy engine but at low speed it should be well planted. I would take it to an independant Audi specialist and get them to take a look. Where are you in the UK?

[aliceofthefirs]

John, you may be right that an independant check should be the next stop - I lost the rear end on a slightly greasy road at the weekend and whilst I was expecting a degree of understeer as an initial warning sudden oversteer came as something of a surprise!. Thanks for your comments but could I ask what tyres you are running?

[John @ DW]

That really does sound like there is a problem. The over riding characteristic of the 3.2 is lots of understeer because the heavy engine is very far forward. You can get over steer but you have to be throwing it into a corner very quicky to get the back end to step out. In most situations you will be trying to fight understeer. I would go and get your checked out ASAP.If you are in the north west I would recommend Unit 20 in Neston on the Wirral.
I run Continental Contact Sport 3s at the moment, but they are getting close to needing replacing and I will be sticking on Goodyear F1 Asymmetrics as they are fantastic.

[Simon Audi]

Hi,

The noise you are hearing is probably a CV joint on the car clicking.

Has it ever had an accident, because the handeling should not be like that.

I have had 3 A3's - All Sport or S-Line, while the ride is firm and hard on the butt, the car always handles well even when pushed.

I have never owned the 3.2, but have driven one twice before, and never had an issue with those either.

Its probably worth taking the car to get a 4 wheel allignment check. Or if you have just bought it, take it back to the dealer.

I would also suggest contacting previous owners to ask about the cars history too.

Regards


Simon

[adamss24]

I take it you guys never drove a propper Quattro ! There is no give vhen driving a b5/b6 audi a4 quattro with a propper Torsen diff. The a3 is FWD untill the front wheel slips, then the Haldex clutch feeds power to rear wheels...I know what you feel, once you had a proper quattro is hard to live without it ! The odd noise is the Haldex clutch coupling the rear wheels...