I just bought a 1997 2.8L 12V A4 Quattro. I had my local audi dealer inspect my car. They said:

1. front and rear propshaft seals leaking
2. rear differential seals are leaking
3. front tie rod ends are loose
4. passenger side motor mount is leaking

How serious are any of these? Does anyone know if these can be done via DIY?... I'm very capable, but haven't done much work on cars before...

What would it cost to fix these? My dealership said in the thousands!... Any input is appreciated!

 

first input is you should of had this done before purchase, then either walked away or, negotiated into price......

might see if you can talk seller into post sale discount or return of vehicle.... some states allow so many days to return even if you weren't approached.... some only allow if you were approached...

next, yes all can be done via diy..... just depends on how capable and tools

i would say easily a weekend job..... motor mount, i would replace all of them
propshafts, just disconnect shaft, new boots and lube.... rear diff..... new seal, drain, put new one on, and tighten..... tr ends, get new ones and put them on..... like i said..... depends on how savy you are and your tools

this site should have alot of what you need....... http://www.audidiy.com/b5a4.html

 

Thanks for your advice turbokraut! Some of the things on the DIY site you gave me were written for the 1.8. For things like engine mounts and differentials, will the information be the same for the 2.8L?

Does anyone know where I can get ramps? I don't know what else to call them. They're two individual ramps that you can drive your car up on...

 

most local auto parts stores, or you can build your own ramps or simply use a jack and jack stands, also available at said auto parts store. Additionnally, I would recommend a 2.5 ton jack.Although a 2 ton jack may suffice to do the job,it probably won't give as much lift height and dependability as a 2.5 ton jack.

 

The more room the better for underneath. The tie rods will be a constant problem if you live in a city type enviroment or have bad streets.