whelp, I think I got it fixed. no codes and no CEL for at least 30 miles of mixed driving.

 

Think I fixed it. light has been off now for at least 30 miles and runs fine.

 

Not trying to sound like a ***** but I find it funny that I have an 02 A4 that was winter driven for it's first five years and then winter driven by me up until 2009 and yet I've never had these issues. Makes me think I better check those vac lines down there. I'm betting a few of them must be showing similar signs of wear but so far, my car is fine

 

I think the first problem was the bleeder valve. I probably broke the other stuff just poking and prodding around.