Car: 2002 Audi A6 3.0 Quattro
Mileage: 114,274

Was driving down the road yesterday, and lost power steering. Immediately my thoughts went to the pleasantries of a snapped drive belt. Much to my dismay, the serpentine belt was intact, however, not tense, as a tensioner pulley was wedged in between the engine and the fan.

This couldn't have happened at a better time, as I've been planning to get the timing belt replaced this week. Now it's in the shop waiting, and I'm sitting here tense about a tensioner.

What are the potential problems that could arise? Why would this tensioner simply break? My guess is that whoever replaced the serp belt at warranty never replaced the tensioners, and the barings glued up-- but could an accessory seize up, and cause too much tension on the belt?

My mechanic quoted me between $900-$1100 for the timing belt repair. I am aware that when this repair is done, the tensioner for the serp belt is removed, so my WISH is that all they'll have to do is replace the tensioner pulley, and may the tensioner control arm, which will add $70-$150 to the price.

Does anyone have any experience with having this problem. I already read the loss of steering thread and the broken fan (although I don't think I have this problem as the car and fan were still running when I pulled off the highway after muscling the car to a gas station.)

Your replies would be helpful, and I will be greatly thankful if my fears could be alleviated.

Cheers.