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2011 AUDI A3

2.0L TDI I4FWDAUTOMATICdieselturbo
4 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs0Labor479Torque4942Fluid6DTC767Battery0Maintenance0Recalls4
P3833high severityPowertrain

DEF Dosing Valve Stuck Open

on 2011 Audi A3 2.0L TDI I4 · FWD

What this code means

The DEF dosing valve is stuck in the open position, causing excessive DEF injection into the exhaust.

Symptoms

  • DEF consumption very high
  • White exhaust smoke (DEF steam)
  • Ammonia smell from exhaust
  • DEF tank empties rapidly
  • SCR system over-dosing
  • Possible SCR catalyst damage from excess urea

Common causes

  • Dosing valve stuck mechanically
  • Solenoid energized continuously
  • Control module error commanding open
  • DEF pressure forcing valve open
  • Valve return spring broken

Diagnostic steps

  1. Monitor DEF dosing rate vs commanded
  2. Check DEF consumption rate
  3. Test valve solenoid de-energized state
  4. Inspect valve for mechanical damage
  5. Read dosing module fault codes

Repair notes

Replace DEF dosing valve. Inspect SCR catalyst for ammonia slip or urea deposit damage.

Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle

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