First off, I have a 2000 A6 2.8 with about 97k. I went to change the spark plugs today so I pulled out the wire for cylinder 1, and it was COVERED in oil! There was even a little pool at the bottom of the hole around the spark plug. I checked the 2nd cylinder, same thing. Then I checked the 4th (other side), it wasn't nearly as bad, but there was a bit of oil down there.

I can't imagine that this is ok. But, I would like to know what you guys think. Is this a serious problem? Have any of you run across this? And do you know what needs to be done?

I'm taking the car to my mechanic tomorrow, but I would like to have an idea of what to expect.

 

Sounds like a leaky valve cover gasket.

 

Possibly whomever changed the plugs last didn't tighten them in all the way, and the oil that you're seeing was a seepage.

 

I highly doubt if the oil is from a loose sparkplug.

1. If a sparkplug isn't tightened it tends to work loose and blow out - making a mess.
2. Oil dosen't survive in the combustion chamber for very long.
3. If that much oil is leaking by the rings you'll see gobs of blue smoke at the back of the vehicle.

Look for an oil leak --- most likely the valve cover gasket, but it could be someting else nearby.

 

+1, VC gasket.

 

Thanks for the replies, right in line with what my mechanic said. He said its a cheap part, but about 3 hours of labor!

 

If nothing else, I learn something new here every day
Thanks, NH and auditech.

-1 for me: bad suggestion!

 

Your welcome --

Even a blind pig will route-up an acorn once-in-a-while!