My 2003 A6 just started to make a 'whirring' noise when I shut off the vehicle. (80,000 miles) Not loud or grinding, just a turbine noise.

Does this mean I am screwed - the beginning of the end.....?

Is the turbocharger self-replaceable for a moderately talented mechanic>??

 

Before worrying about it, make sure you are not confusing the cooling fan(s) with the turbos. Open the hood and listen when the sound happens. Coolant fans are in the front, turbos are more down by the transmission.

You normally pull the engine to replace the turbos.

OBTW, there is also an electric coolant pump under the manifold that may come on (when hot) as the engine is turned off. (Aux coolant pump... aka after-run pump.)

 

There is a whining sound like something spinning down on mine as well -- been there for a long time (turned 156k this weekend). Just assumed it was the turbos winding down but it could be the other stuff mentioned. If it accelerates fine and is not blowing oil, you are probably ok. Do a search on turbos and you'll find symptoms.