Audidriver9

How much am i looking @ to replace the valve stem seals?? Will a compression test pick them up?

MikTip

I can tell you the price to change seals in Arizona, wont be the same as it is in New York! So you really should get quotes in your area, then post'm here, and we could possibly better tell you if its a good deal or too high?

I change me own seals(DIY), so for me there's no "labor" cost.

Only the parts, and my time. :O)

Audidriver9

that way($600). Or the "Bently" (prob the right way) to do it is take the head off, etc....($1300) Legit or no? TIA! (and i told them Viton seals )

MikTip

and R&R the valve guide seals. IMO, thats the "prefered" method. As its less costly, and less down-time on your car.

However, a good evaluation, & close inspection of your heads, by a good mechanic, is needed, to determine, if maybe the head gaskets are leaking? Or if a valve job maybe in order? Otherwise you may simply replace the seals, only to find other, larger problems persist! ;O)

moribundman

but if at that one shop they know that the valve stem seals can be replaced without tearing the heads off, then people at that place MIGHT be a bit more knowledgeable than those who don't mention it.

MikTip

I know certain shops, whom perform better work than others, and have better mechanics than other shops. Its good for a shop/mechanic to give you the "straight scoop" and not always demand your life savings.

I would be more prone to go with the shop who gave the non-head removal method. But that's not a real indicator of the level of knowledge of their mechanic's.(?)

The other shop may have dealt with several older V6 Audi's and concluded their method is better/thorough?

Either will work, but it all hinges on a proper evaluation, and an experienced inspector, finding all that is wrong. Then determine which method of repair best suits the particular engine.

As I wrote in a previous post, its quite possible
other problems exist?(head gasket, rear main seal, other seals) Which are quite common with older 12V V6 Audi's.

If time permits, I would take the car to said shops, and get their mechs, to look at the engine.
Then ask them what they thinks going to fix it.

Difficult to properly diagnose excessive oil usage problem, without seeing said engine. ;O)

moribundman

I found it very difficult to find a mechanic who was willing to take a good look. Many like to diagnose even before getting their hands dirty. :-\

Audidriver9

Thanks guys!