We had a new timing belt and water pump put in about a month ago. Immediately after picking up the car we noticed the timing was off. Brought it back the next day for an adjustment. It seemed okay, but not perfect. We then noticed an erratic idle. We needed a new motor mount so we brought it back to have that done and told the mechanic to check the timing. Mechanic said it was "half a tooth off". He said he fixed it, test drove it, and said it felt "great". The next thing we hear is that new codes came up indicating that we need new valve cover gaskets because there is oil leaking. My first question is this. Do you have to remove the valve cover gasket when replacing a timing belt? Shouldn't the valve covers be replaced when replacing the belt? This was not an Audi dealer or special mechanic that did the work and I believe he screwed something up in a BIG way. Now they are having the car towed to the local Audi dealer and said they will cover all costs ($2,200.00) IF it was their fault. Sigh...

 

Forgot something! They say there is a short in the VCT solenoid which CAUSED the valve cover gasket to "blow". All I know is everything was fine until they changed the belt!