P0243 on Audi
Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" Malfunction
P0243 on Audi vehicles indicates turbocharger/supercharger wastegate solenoid "a" malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 5 Audi models — most commonly on A7, RS Q8, S5. This code indicates a general fault with turbocharger/supercharger wastegate solenoid "A," which the engine control module uses to manage boost pressure. The computer has detected the solenoid or its circuit is not responding correctly (open, shorted, or out of expected operating range). Because it governs boost, a fault can lead to overboost or underboost, reduced power, or a limp mode. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $300 to $16,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0243
- •Failed or sticking wastegate solenoid
- •Open or shorted wiring in the solenoid circuit
- •Corroded or damaged electrical connector
- •Mechanical wastegate sticking or binding
- •Vacuum/boost hose leaks or blockage
- •Faulty ECM/PCM solenoid driver (rare)
P0243 on Audi by Model
Audi A7(1 issue)
- Supercharger Clutch and Isolator Failure (S7 3.0T)2012-2018
The S7 with the 3.0T supercharged V6 (2012-2018) uses an electromagnetic clutch to engage the supercharger. Over time, the clutch disc wears out or the torsional isolator (damper) fails, creating a loud rattling, grinding, or "bag of marbles" sound from the front of the engine. This is most noticeable on cold starts or under load. A failed clutch prevents the supercharger from engaging, causing significant power loss. A failed isolator damages internal supercharger components, requiring complete supercharger replacement. Oil contamination accelerates wear—if oil becomes contaminated with dirt or debris, it causes premature failure of internal components. AudiWorld forums report failures between 60,000-120,000 miles, with repair costs of $1,500-$5,000.
Audi RS Q8(1 issue)
- 4.0T Turbo Coolant System in SUV Application2020-2026
The RS Q8 4.0T twin-turbo V8 generates significant heat in the enclosed SUV engine bay. Reduced airflow compared to sedans and higher coolant temperatures accelerate coolant line and connection degradation.
Audi S5(1 issue)
- 3.0T Supercharger Intercooler Pump Failure2008-2025
The water-to-air intercooler system on the S5 3.0T uses an electric coolant pump that can fail, causing elevated charge air temperatures and reduced power. Heat soak becomes severe in warm climates.
Audi S7(2 issues)
- 4.0T Biturbo Coolant Line and Thermostat Failure2012-2024
The S7 shares the 4.0T biturbo V8 cooling system issues with turbo coolant lines cracking under heat cycling. The thermostat housing also cracks, causing slow coolant loss that is hard to detect.
- Turbocharger Oil Strainer Blockage Causing Engine Stall (4.0T NHTSA Recall)2012-2017
The Audi S7 (2012-2017) with the 4.0T twin-turbo V8 has a critical design flaw in the turbocharger oil supply system. A poorly designed oil strainer (screen) collects oil sludge and carbon deposits, blocking oil flow to the turbocharger bearings. Oil-starved turbo bearings fail, causing the turbine wheel to contact the housing or the turbo shaft to break. This leads to sudden engine stall while driving—including on highways—with the engine unable to restart. NHTSA received 58 complaints and opened an investigation. Audi received 1,889 warranty claims and 47 field reports. NHTSA Recall 22V178 covers 2013-2017 S6, S7, RS7, A8, and S8 models. Audi extended the turbocharger warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles and will replace the oil strainer with a larger-mesh version. Vehicles built after March 30, 2017 already have the updated screen.
Audi SQ8(1 issue)
- 4.0T Twin-Turbo Coolant System Degradation2020-2024
The SQ8 4.0T V8 turbo coolant lines suffer from the same heat-cycle degradation as other 4.0T Audi models. The SUV packaging increases underhood heat, accelerating line and connection failure.
Looking for P0243 on a different make?
View P0243 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0243 mean on Audi?▼
P0243 stands for "Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" Malfunction." This code indicates a general fault with turbocharger/supercharger wastegate solenoid "A," which the engine control module uses to manage boost pressure. The computer has detected the solenoid or its circuit is not responding correctly (open, shorted, or out of expected operating range). Because it governs boost, a fault can lead to overboost or underboost, reduced power, or a limp mode. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 5 models.
What causes P0243 on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: Failed or sticking wastegate solenoid, Open or shorted wiring in the solenoid circuit, Corroded or damaged electrical connector, Mechanical wastegate sticking or binding, Vacuum/boost hose leaks or blockage. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0243 on a Audi?▼
Repair costs on Audi range from $300 to $16,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Audi models have P0243 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0243 on 5 Audi models: A7, RS Q8, S5, S7, SQ8.