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2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - Billsboy

I collected my car from the local Audi dealer after its three year service and first MOT.

Next day I drove 170 miles to visit relatives and returned today, three days later.

On my return I lifted the bonnet to replenish the windscreen washer and check the oil and found that the engine cover was missing and the battery terminal covers were adrift. The cover had not fallen off because if it had, it would still be in the engine compartment, nowhere else for it to go. Someone in the workshop must wonder why there is an engine cover lying around.

I am waiting for the service manager to return my call but would be interested in anyone's views as to whether this could have caused any damage and whether they will claim that I should have checked it.

I personally find it disturbing that a technician could close the bonnet after the service and fail to notice the missing cover, its big enough!

Any thoughts

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - thunderbird

found that the engine cover was missing

Our Fabia TSi, the comunist version of Audi TFSi, manages perfectly well without an engine cover so other than the obvious conclusion that your garage are a total buch of numpties there is nothing to worry about.

The simple solution is to never go there again.

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - elekie&a/c doctor
The engine cover is totally cosmetic. On lesser poverty spec models , it’s probably not fitted. I guess the technician forgot to refit , or he wanted it for his own car or a private job .
2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - Railroad.
The engine cover is totally cosmetic.

That isn't strictly true. I'm not sure about this particular model but on some cars the engine cover provides a specific airflow designed to help keep the ignition coils cool. The OP is absolutely right to question its whereabouts.

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - Billsboy

found that the engine cover was missing

Our Fabia TSi, the comunist version of Audi TFSi, manages perfectly well without an engine cover so other than the obvious conclusion that your garage are a total buch of numpties there is nothing to worry about.

The simple solution is to never go there again.

At least they have now offered their apologies and are sending someone to fit it.

Still doubt if I will use them again.

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - edlithgow

I would demand its return, as a matter of principle.

Then I would throw it away.

Did that with my wheel covers, which I suppose are the banger equivalent.

Dunno what they are for either.

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - John F

I personally find it disturbing that a technician could close the bonnet after the service and fail to notice the missing cover, its big enough!

Any thoughts

I think it's impossible to notice something that isn't there.

An easily understandable human error. Most engines look perfectly normal without their plastic covers, a relatively recent phenomenon which serve no useful purpose apart from 'prettifying' the underbonnet appearance. My Audi even has one for the coolant reservoir. Think yourself lucky their forgetfulness did not extend to not tightening the spark plugs/sump plug/ lug nuts etc. The risk of cack-handed young mechanics is one of the reasons why I never ever submit our cars for a 'service', preferring to do it myself.

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - SLO76
Daft mechanic has been talking with someone and forgot, but it does make you wonder what else he forgot. I’d look for a good local VAG specialist next time. They’re plentiful and usually very knowledgeable and they’ll save you a packet over the main dealer. We have three in my town alone, all are well regarded.
2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - veloceman
Not sure if connected or not. But the new Cupra Formentor’s have had their engine covers removed due to a recall with fire risk.
2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - Redcar01

Not really true, I used a so called reputable indy and the owner was so up his own A***

it was unbelievable but that wasn't the issue, when I went to pick up my wife's Audi whilst sat in the car ready to go home I watched the mechanic almost doing donuts in the business unit at a ridiculous speed. Never used them again.

Regards

2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - Metropolis.
The worst mechanic experience I ever had was from a so called specialist outfit, not necessarily incompetence it was downright dishonesty. I was so ready to give them repeat custom for years to come, but they ruined it seeking a quick buck.
2019 A3 Tfsi - Audi service - Falkirk Bairn

Around 90K and 5 years old my Honda had been very reliable - I bought it new in 2001!

Light came on so took it to Honda Franchise - they said no fault recorded but presented me with some £2800 worth of faults needing remedied! The car was worth about £3,000.

I spoke to Honda HQ - they told me to have it examined at their expense at an Edinburgh Franchise. They recorded that the rheostat on the fan speed was faulty (agreed)and 2 new tyres would be required in a few months time (agreed) - clean bill of health otherwise!.

The local Honda dealer did not get a penny from me thereafter. Satisfaction was that the Franchise closed about 2/3 years later! 2 years on the actual company folded - despite having several car franchises plus 3 x Honda at one point.