I have a check engine light on in my 2002 Audi A4 1.8 (106,500 mi) and the error code is P1296. Had this code back in January and got a coolant temperature sensor replaced which seemed to solve the problem for a while. I took the car into the shop and they said a thermostat replacement is needed now. They are asking $153 for the thermostat and $310 for 2.7hrs of labor ($475.83 after tax). Does this sound reasonable (seems pricey to me!) or should I call around? They said it is a "very difficult" thing to replace. Picture of estimate below. Thanks!

 

If you can wrench much at all you can do this yourself, I would say is a 2 out of 5 on difficulty scale. Look around for a DIY. 2.7 hours is a little much but I could understand that estimate you consider the time to refill the coolant and burp the system.

IIRC, you remove the throttle body intake hose and the alternator and it is right there.

There is a J-plug associated with the job which is a pain to get out but should be replaced as the plastic gets brittle. Everything is either o-ring or hose clamp and very tight. Since you are emptying the system it is a good time to replace the CTS at the bottom of the radiator just below the thermostat.

As far as the price on the thermostat you can pay $75-150 depending on brand you want.

Good luck!

 

Thanks for the thorough and helpful reply to my question!

 

You must have a newer Audi. I replaced my thermostat with a brand new OEM one for under $30.

 

Looking at the mileage you listed if you have not had the timing belt replaced or don't know if it has been replaced in the life of the car, I would suggest you do both jobs at once since the labor involved is mostly the same for both jobs so you would only be adding the cost of parts to the repair to do both. Mine is a 2000 2.8 non T so your motor may be mounted differently making what I just said a load of HS but double check it. Last thing I will suggest is that you make sure you trust the shop your planning to use.

FCP Euro has the T-stat for $6.95 and a timing chain kit that includes a new water pump and coolant for $ 265.00 IF you can turn a wrench and or have a buddy that can you could have your car "good to go" for a little while for less than the quote you copied even IF you pay your buddy $100.