So I have a 2001.5 A4 B5 1.8T Quattro. I just took my car to FireStone Complete auto care because when I turn I am hearing a loud clunking sound.

They quoted me just over $1000 and said that they entire rack needed replace. They also took me into the bay to show me where the boot was leaking power stering fluid.

My question is without taking the car apart is it possible for them to know the entire rack needs replace or if it just might be a tierod that needs replace?

Thanks!
Dustin

 

You're probably being ripped off. For that price, you could buy all the new tools you need, and the parts. But then you get to keep the tools...

Of course, I've never done the rack before, so I'm not sure how bad of a job it is.

 

I priced a rebuilt rack on ESC for $863. Which if the entire rack needs replace then $1000 might be a bargin, but if it is just a tie rod (that only costs $83) then I'd be getting screwed.

Also the boot was only leaking at the passanger side. (not sure that matters)

 

if you have your doubts, replace the tie rod yourself (pretty simple actually) and if that doesn't work, then you can dish out the big bucks to get it fix...

 

Is there any way I can be certain the tie rod needs replaced?

 

Truthfully, I don't think the tie rod can leak, so if it looks like it's leaking, the fluid has to be coming from somewhere (most likely the rack).

Take it to an independent mechanic that you can trust, and see what he says...

 

Before you drop money on parts that you are unsure if they even need to be replaced, take it to a shop that actually specializes in Audis and get another opinion.

 

multiple quotes and estimates pay off! I dont trust places like that but thats me.

 

If you're leaking fluid through the boot, the rack is shot (been there, seen it, and fixed it on more than one car). The rack can be bought through Advance for $350ish. You'll have to swap your outer TREs onto it. Make no mistake, changing the rack is a motherf*cker. First time we did it we had four guys who know Audis and a very well-equipped garage and it took us 11 hours. Quite simply, the job sucks. It can be done though although you'll need a helper (two would be better). Bear that in mind.

I wouldn't have Firestone do it though - get a place that knows Audi.