I think Audi is heading in the direction of Mercedes and Jaguar. They’ll bump the from the factory power 10% higher on base models, and 20% higher for sport package cars. You see this in the C63 and C63S, the Jaguar 3.0 supercharged and S model, etc. Even Bentley does it on their V8TT cars. Aftermarket gains may get modest, like 10HP here and 15HP there.
Is this something that is seriously so bad the best fix isnt a new seal but a entirely new axel. I just find it hard to believe something leaking cant be better fixed for 35 dollars vs 3500 dollars
My thoughts exactly, Justin. The cost seems so outrageously disproportionate to what actually needs to be fixed. If this really is Audi’s best recommendation, perhaps they should find some new engineers.
I would break out the costs of the axles vs the side seals on the differential.
I would not pay to replace axles until the failed. I would see what it costs to fix the side seals on the differential.
I’m not an engineer, but I’d be surprised if the issue with the axles is causing the problem with the seals on the differential.
IIRC the fluid leak is from the axles (not differential). I no longer have my paperwork, but I’m 99% positive when my axles were replaced no work was done to the differential. Double check TSB. I’m also pretty sure that the TSB makes no mention of replacing/repairing the side seals on the differential.
I had honestly thought it would be closer to $6k for the part. $3500 seems reasonable.
Here’s a video of the internals:
$3500 is for the axle shaft with inner and outer CVs, NOT for the differential pumpkin.
Cloch, you could honestly get away with driving the car with the “leak” for a LONG TIME. It’s the light oil component of the thick CV grease that’s in the CV joints. All the thick grease is still in there. Since the internals of the CV don’t move much, they really don’t need tons of lubrication. I had upgraded drive shaft shop axles on my 350Z and the inner CVs always leaked some oil, but I never had an issue with the CVs binding up or making any noise over 5 years of driving with the.
I would either just let it be.
If it really bothers you, look for a used axle off of a 2012+ car that doesn’t show any signs of leaking.
You can find used ones from newer model years on www.car-part.com for around $200.
^^ thnx, Vogz. Appreciate the input. I thought through my options and just decided to go with something different. I’ll post a new thread on it soon.
Oh snap…I see it in your signature though 8)
congrats on the new ride!
This really sucks audi dropped the ball here. Glad your still here. Hope you stay and stick around. You do a great job over here and help make it a great website no matter what you drive
^^ Thnx, Justin. I’m not going anywhere. Happy with the new ride but will definitely stick around here.