So i need to get my emissions done and my check engine light is on pulling code p1296 which i pointed towards my thermostat. THing is when i was trying to get the housing off the thermostat i managed to strip both the inside and outside of the bolt holding on the top of the thermostat housing. Any idea's on gettin it loose? I really dont want to spend the $300 audi is asking for. Also, i'm taking it in on saturday for the TB check up thingy. Think i can maybe bribe the tech to loosen them up for me?

 

What is Audi's solution?.....if vice grips can't grab it, it's a drill out

 

i couldnt even see a drill being able to fit in there. Does anybody know how they check the timing belt at audi? What all do the take off to get to it?

 

It's a simple visual check under the cover. Be careful because I've heard others being charged $125 at the dealer.

 

Yeah i called first to make sure it was free. do they take the intake manifold off?

 

there is no reason to take the intake manifold off to do the timing belt nor check it nice try tho