Knocking Engine & Oil Warning: SQ7 TDI Owner's Alert

I had a very similar issue with my 2016 Audi Q7 TDI. With some experience working on diesel engines, I recognized those symptoms immediately. The oil pressure warning and knocking sounds often indicate serious problems with oil circulation. In my case, the defective oil pump was causing inconsistent oil pressure, which was damaging the engine bearings. The repair cost me 755 Euro, which included replacing the oil pump and checking the bearings for wear. The concerning part was that like yours, my oil levels were fine and I had recently done an oil change. The workshop found that the oil pump failure was causing inadequate lubrication despite proper oil levels. They also performed: Complete oil system inspection, Oil pressure sensor testing, Oil filter check for potential clogging, Oil leakage check around the pump area Before suggesting specific solutions, could you provide: Current mileage on your SQ7, Any other warning lights or messages, Whether the knocking sound changes with engine RPM, When the last full service was done This information would help determine if your situation matches what I experienced and whether you might be facing similar oil pump issues.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My SQ7 has 10241 KM, and the last major service was completed 5000km ago with a full oil change. The knocking noise definitely increases with higher RPMs, and the oil pressure gauge shows fluctuating readings. No other warning lights are present except the oil pressure warning. This seems to match your diagnosis of potential oil pump failure. The consistent oil viscosity but varying pressure readings align with what you described about inadequate oil circulation. Will get the oil pump checked as a priority given these symptoms.

Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms you describe match my Q7 situation even more closely than I initially thought. With your SQ7 being relatively low mileage at 10241km, this points strongly toward a premature oil pump failure rather than normal wear. The fluctuating oil pressure readings combined with RPM-dependent knocking is exactly what I experienced. The oil pump failure creates inconsistent oil pressure, leading to improper engine bearing lubrication despite correct oil viscosity levels. When my workshop conducted the repair, they found the oil pump had a manufacturing defect causing internal wear. They also discovered minor scoring on some engine bearings due to the oil pressure issues. Early detection likely prevented more extensive engine damage. A few quick checks you can do before the workshop: Listen for changes in knocking sounds during idle vs acceleration, Monitor if oil pressure warning appears more frequently at specific RPM ranges, Check for any oil leakage around the timing cover area Based on the matching symptoms and similar vehicle specs, I strongly recommend having the oil pump inspected immediately to prevent potential bearing damage. The repair cost might be covered under warranty given your low mileage.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up information and recommendations. The oil pressure symptoms you described with your Q7 match my situation perfectly. With my SQ7 having just 10241km and recent service, a faulty oil pump makes the most sense. The increased knocking at higher RPMs and fluctuating oil pressure gauge readings now seem like classic signs of oil pump failure affecting the engine bearings. Since no other warning lights are present beyond the oil pressure warning, this helps narrow down the diagnosis. Will schedule an urgent workshop visit to have the oil pump inspected and tested. Given the relatively low mileage, hope to catch any issues before they cause more extensive engine bearing damage like in your case. Really helpful to know the specific repair process your workshop followed. Will request they do a complete oil pressure sensor check and full system inspection when they look at the pump. The possibility of manufacturer defect causing premature wear is definitely worth investigating at this mileage. Will update once I know more.