S3 Clutch worn out after 29k?!?

[PaulNixx]

I have an 02 Audi S3 with 29k on the clock and the clutch has gone! The car does have an AMD remap, but even so is it heard of for a clutch to go so soon! I bought the car at 20k so cannot vouch for the previous owners left leg strength. The car is still under warranty, but Audi will only cover it if it is an oil leak that is causing the clutch to slip. If it is genuinely worn then they will sting me for £1650!!!!! AMD will do the same work for £700. Problem is the clutch does not have a burning smell so I actually think it is an oil leak, but dare not risk having to fork out the extra £900. Anyone any advice or experience to share?

Cheers

paul

[bjacks]

Pretty common I'm afraid mate - especially on a remapped car. Some go on for ever, but others only last 20k. Mine went at 34k after being chipped for 6k.

I elected to put the car back to standard - where the clutch was completly fine (no slipping at all) and then she was sold. That £1650 from Audi includes a new flywheel so unless that has gone it should be closer to £1200.

Cheers

Ben

[david7m]

My clutch pedal kept getting stuck half way down at about 23k, clutch master cylinder was replaced under warranty for free.

It wasn't leaking, just kept stuck half way.

[PaulNixx]

Thanks for the replies, makes me feel not so bad that it may be common, but still a pain. I'll try to blag it with Audi (as obviosuly they think it's a standard car), but looks like a trip to AMD. Audi were unable to tell me if the flywheel was dual mass or not (worryingly) so yes it could well be cheaper.

here's hoping!

Cheers

Paul

[bjacks]

Sure is a dual mass item, itself prone to knackering and causing vibration on the over run at around 3k RPM - most noticable in 5th and 6th. If you need a new flywheel, I think I know a man who has one with very little use.

Cheers

Ben