2018 Audi A3 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My 2018 Audi A3 began having fuel-related issues after receiving the recall service for campaign 20YF (Suction Jet Pump Seal) at an authorized Audi dealership. I first took the vehicle to an independent mechanic, because the check engine light came on, and there was a strong fuel smell. Most concerning, fuel leaked heavily from the front part of the engine, posing an extreme fire risk. who performed a diagnostic and found the following faults: Cold start fuel pressure performance fault Fuel rail/system pressure too low Fuel rail pump control valve stuck open Injector 4 leaking fuel The mechanic replaced injector 4 and installed new seals. However, the fuel leak continued, so I decided to take the car back to the Audi dealership, since they had previously performed recall work on the vehicle. I was concerned that the fuel leak might be related to the recall. The dealership told me the issue was not related to the recall and required a new in-depth diagnostic, which I would have to pay for. I accepted, and they charged me $876 for a deeper inspection. After their diagnosis, they said the only issue was that the previous mechanic had installed the seals incorrectly. They replaced the seals again and charged me for the repair. When I picked up the vehicle, the check engine light was still on. I immediately reported it to the dealership, and they asked me to return the car, saying the light should not be on. Once I brought it back, they told me it was now a new issue unrelated to their work, and that I would need to pay for another diagnostic. I believe this ongoing problem is directly related to the fuel system recall or to the dealership’s repair, and I feel that I am being charged repeatedly for an issue that was never fully resolved. Despite my efforts to follow Audi’s process, I am being held financially responsible for what I believe is a safety-related failure that began after the recall was performed.

The low pressure fuel pump, located in the fuel tank, shorted out and melted surrounding plastic housing. The pump is available for for inspection and has been verified by an independent service center. The vehicle and failed component have not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance reps. Audi of America was contacted, but declined to inspect or pass the issue to technical representatives. There were no warning lights or messages. Symptoms included hesitation at startup.