This 2007 Audi A4 2.0 petrol had shown a marked rise in petrol consumption, and the owner was intending to have the service done soon, in an attempt to improve the efficiency of the engine.

The thought that the car should have a service was sped up by the distinct smell of petrol, that was now beginning to surround the motor. At first the owner thought that he may have spilt some when filling up, but as the smell was getting stronger and not dispersing, he realised that this was not the case, and that it was possible the precious fuel was spilling out onto the road.

With the Audi up on the ramp, the source of the heavy fuel consumption and the pungent smell was very quickly identified. There was a tiny pin hole in the fuel filter, which was allowing the fuel to seep out.

Amazingly, the petrol filter on the A4 does not appear to have a designated service interval, but as this one proves, it does need changing occasionally.

You can download this story as a PDF, as well as other technical tips at TechTips.ie.

There are lots more Tech Tips to view, and they are all searchable, on TechTips.ie.