I have a 97 a6 quattro wagon.. service station tells me I need to fix my leaky valve cover gasket and cam seal. $900
after reading these posts.. It seems like I should be able to do the rear cam seal and the valve cover gaskets myself... When I remove the valve covers .. is the rear cam seal just a plug to replace at the back of the head? or do i have to remove much more? the front cam seal doesnt look like it's leaking. The car was just given to me after the owner moved out of town.. it runs great but i can smell the smoke from the oil leak. He had just replaced the timing belt, water pump and radiator. thanks New Audi owner.. New Orleans La

 

You'll have to undo the last bearing cap in order to change the camshaft seal. That relieves the pressure on the seal. Otherwise you may need the special tool.
The torque for the bearing cap bolts is 15 ft lb.
The valve cover gasket is pretty simple to replace.
Spread a thin film of oil on both before you install them.

good luck and welcome to the forum/Audi family.

 

thanks