eergin

Hi Folks

I have a 2007 A4 3.2 quattro which has a slight coolant leak that accumulates under the intake area.
I pulled the intake thinking it is the thermostat leaking but it did not appear to be the problem. The coolant was over the entire area all the way to the back of the intake (more of it on the front side) It is not a big leak since I only have to add maybe 1/4 qt every month or so.
I cleaned the area but without any pressure it is impossible to see where the leak could be. The plastic pipe going from the front to the back on both intake and exhaust side seemed OK (one piece pipe that pretty much spans the top of the engine and front). Any ideas?
I may have to get some tool to pressurize the system when the intake is off but I thought maybe there are known parts that require replacement periodically that you know off.
The car had ~97k miles when I got it about a year ago now it has ~108K. The issue has been there all a long. There was also an oil leak some of which was from the valve covers. I replaced that but it is still leaking a little. I think the head gasket is seeping.
The car looked well taken care of so I cannot fault the previous owner but based on my experience with other cars German/Italian and American, this is not a care put together with servicing in mind. A lot of parts are plastic and after this many miles seems to be very brittle and access to anything is difficult.
Anyway, it does still run good, has good power and fit and finish is great so.
If you know of a good mechanic in Austin TX please do share and any suggestions is appreciated.

Thanks

Erhan