Sunday, June 23, 2019

More Than A Tourist Trophy!

Automotive manufacturers have been digging into their parts bins for years to build new models. During the 1980s, GM pulled together components from the Chevy Chevette and other car lines to build its mid-engine Pontiac Fiero. The following decade Audi did the same thing, taking the platform used to power the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3 and Skoda Octavia to underpin the Audi TT. Sometimes automakers need to save money in order to bring a winning product to the market, hence the sharing of key components with other models. Though originally based on a more humble platform, there isn't anything tame about the Audi TT, a car that is named for the famous British Isle of Man "Tourist Trophy" motorcycle race. The thinking here is that the TT would appeal to motorcycle racers who might choose a fast car to go along with their even faster bike. Offered in front or four wheel drive, the Audi TT was introduced for the 1998 model year and updated eight years later.


It is that latest generation model that is winning numerous design and engineering awards thanks to its use of aluminum in the front and steel in the back which helps to balance its weight distribution. Also notable are its turbo-charged engine choices which, when paired with a six-speed manual transmission, helps certain versions of the roadster and cabriolet go from zero to sixty in just 4.6 seconds. First generation Audi TT owners know that there rides are beautiful, but they aren't been without controversy as a pair of class action legal cases have sullied the model and are cause for concern for some TT owners. Specifically, first generation owners of the TT powered by its 1.8L turbocharged I4 gas engine need to be on the look out for premature engine failure. According to the complaint, timing belts have failed prior to the service interval, as noted in the owner's manual. Owners should have already received information from Audi on what to do next; if not, call your dealer for guidance.


The Audi TT has also had problems with its instrument cluster, an issue that was part of a suit involving 2000-2004 and certain 2005 models. Owners have noted that fuel, temp, tach and speed readings have quit working, necessitating that the defective instrument clusters be replaced. Details of the settlement include repairing the cluster as well as extending to all TT owners covered by the suit a 2 year extension of their existing 4 year warranty (limited to the instrument cluster). Again, contact your Audi dealer if you haven't received notification. While the Audi TT suits point to possible problems with certain models, that doesn't mean every car produced has been impacted nor does it suggest that you may be stuck with a lemon. Still, if you plan on keeping your older TT for many more years, then you should check your service manual to make sure that its parts and other key components are replaced within the time suggested by Audi. Finally, if you're planning to do the work yourself, you'll want to shop around for OEM car parts offered at discount prices.


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