Hi guys,

I'm new in the forum and have really enjoyed many of the posts.

I just bought a 97 A6 Quattro Wagon with 36K miles and it needs the 30K
tuneup and a fan belt (starting to show cracks). Also it is leaking transmission
oil, rear differential oil and oil in the rear of the engine. These are all minor
leaks that do not result in accumulation under the car. But you can see they
are there. Just gaskets that are not doing their job anymore.

I was wondering what you think this would cost me in labor and parts?
I am trying to find out what a reasonable cost is as I shop the job around.

And...
Also, any hints on how serious having these small leaks is?
Or should I just not fix some of them for now and save some bucks?

Looking forward to your informed replies.
Thanks!

97 A6Q wagon

by fan belt do you mean serpintine belt? or the radiator fan belt?

I had my serpintine belt replaced for $72 parts & labor at the dealership. Probably cheaper if you go to a shop.

If you are leaking oil, get it fixed asap. Esspecially transmission because its not easy to top it off like engine oil. Oil is flamable, and because of the extreme heat in the engine compartment it is possible for a fire.

Its hard to say about the cost for the leaks, because it all depends on what is causing them. If a hose is loose, a new hose clamp is normally pretty cheap, but if you have to replace your oil pan, etc.. it can be bad.

It may end up costing money, but its better than waiting and having it cost more when you do get around to fixing it.

Hope this helped!

Another A6q owner had the rear differential seal replaced for something like $350. Valve cover gaskets maybe $100-$150, and I really don't know about the transmission. Maybe $100-$200 depending on time needs, assuming you reuse the old fluid. Serpentine belt should cost about $100 to replace. Showing cracks after 36k? Mine went 72k without cracks. A little "worn" but not even dry or any parts frayed. Are you in a hot and dry climate?

The car was from North Carolina. Has 3 hot summers on it.
Now it resides in Maryland.

The guys at the AUDI shop I took it too showed me the small
cracks on the serpentine belt. Nothing huge but I would not like
it to go out when my wife is driving it.
I wonder if I should wait another 5K miles or so...

Anyway I did not expect that at this mileage.