2.0 TDI pump noise
 

Hey All

I drive an '05 A3 2.0 TDI manual. I've had it since new (picked up 01 April 05 which probably explains the reliability - see below) and already put 160 000 km on it. It recently started making a vibration noise approximately 5 seconds after switching off the engine. The noise lasts about 3 seconds and starts loud getting gradually softer. I've checked under the hood - the noise appears to be coming from what my dealer calls the fuel pump (though one technician called it a vacuum pump - no idea who is correct). It's a black box sitting against the fire wall right next to the battery with several rubber hoses connected to it. Anyone had this problem or have an idea of what it could be? The dealer replaced the box in question today but the new one is making the same noise the old one did making me think it's something connected to this box via one of the hoses, not the pump itself.

Regarding the reliability - in the 160 000 km I've gone through 1 fuel pump (the one in the tank), new front shocks (creaking noise since new), 3 clutches in 5000 Km (dealer didn't diagnose a worn output shaft on the gearbox), 1 gearbox (with 4th clutch), 1 water pump and an air-intake flap servo (or something to that effect - wasn't paying much attention to the explanation that day). Thing is, when it's running well (99% of the time) I REALLY love this car and will buy another Audi soon (prob Q5 2.0T). Just want to get this noise sorted before selling it.