Yesterday on my way to the repair shop the engine in my 2003 A4 1.8t Quattro overheated and blew, cracking the block in several places.

This may seem like a dumb question but does anyone foresee any problems replacing the problem ridden 1.8t that I have had with the 3.0 engine that was also used in my model.

I was unsure whether or not both the computer systems and the mechanical systems currently installed in the vehicle as a 1.8t could/would handle the 3.0 without a major overhaul...meaning more $$.

The car already isn't driveable...if I have to replace the engine...I'd rather do it with one that doesn't have so many problems and has more power. In anyone's opinion...would it be worth it to explore or should I put another 1.8 in the thing and does someone more experienced mechanically than I have an idea how difficult it may be and/or how much extra it would cost in labor(hours)?

Thanks!

 

how hot did you get it? ive seen many overheated 1.8t's never seen a cracked block from it. to answer your question i wouldnt replace with the 3.0, it will cost much more that switching out a long block.

 

Well I had a pretty bad coolant leak which is why I was on my way to the shop AND I knew I needed a timing belt change, which I was going to get changed at the shop also. The last I heard from the shop, they thought that the timing belt slipped and made a mess, maybe due to the excess heat causing the belt to expand?? I dunno...that was before they took everything apart. After they took everything apart and got down into the guts of the engine they called back and said...yeah the block is cracked in several places...you're going to need a new engine.

Yeah, I've been hearing from a few people that dropping a 3.0 in the thing probably wouldn't be cost efficient...unfortunately...I haven't had good luck at ALL with this 1.8t engine...

 

do yourself a favor and go have a look at that block, i am a little suspect of what they are telling you.

 

You're probably right...I probably should...ugh, I'd hate to think this shop is trying to pull a fast one...I've been going to them for years and they've always been really honest even when they could have taken me (and friends i've recommended) for a really expensive ride...but better safe than poor!