PaulW

So as some of you might recall, I bought new tie rod ends last week, went to go install them last weekend, got one on, but the left side one was frozen. I wrestled with it for almost 2 hours, tore the tie rod boot in the process, and said screw it, I'll let the dealer put this one on.

We'll just call it another Waterlooism.

I already had an appointment at Laurel for an alignment on Monday morning. I have established a few relationships with the techs at Laurel, and converse through email sometimes. I emailed the techs and sent them the picture below, they said they would take care of me.

I was worried that a boot wasn't available, and it would be some terrible story of needing a new steering rack for some huge amount of money. I even suggested to the tech that if they had a steering rack sitting around that they took out of a car, use that boot.

<img src="http://www.audipages.com/Tech_Articles/susp_whls_brake_steer/tr2.JPG">

The boot actually goes over the inner tie rod, which they said might have to come off and be replaced if the outer couldn't come loose. Here's the whole thing:

<img src="http://www.audipages.com/Tech_Articles/susp_whls_brake_steer/tr3.JPG">

So I gave them authorization to replace the inner if required. Picked my car up today, and there was no boot charge on the bill! The tech (ILAudiTech) said that the boot was available, but a local dealer had one, not Laurel.

So I so saw Dave, asked him about it, he stated that they managed to get the old one off (I did spray penetrating oil on it all weekend, hope that helped), and that they had a rack laying around that they just took off the car. So they took off the boot and put it on my car!

So they charged me 1 hour labor to remove the old outer tie rod, put on a new boot, and install my supplied tie rod end. Plus the alignment. Oh, and the boot clamp for $4.00.

Their labor rate is $120.99, but I paid one hour, which I feel comfortable with. Plus they gave me a rental car. They also provided me with the "as-found" and "as-left" alignment printout as I asked.

I'm glad that I can report this positive experience with Laurel. Thanks for taking care of me!

Scott D.³

Laurel rocks once again!

PlainRuss

Glad to help Paul.

BlueCarDude

So many that I've decided to take my S4 there for service. Called over and spoke with Jim (Finch is it?) and was told I could get a loaner, no questions asked... and I didn't even purchase my car there.

Going to head over on Saturday to get a light fixed on my S4 Avant.

So glad I don't have to deal with Felcher-Jones!

ZCD2.7T

It's worth the drive, I guarantee you. They are REALLY easy to deal with.

carbonLORD

I felt bad that I couldnt purchase my second Audi from them but they did not have what I needed at the time. I had the pleasure of purchasing my first car, and first Audi from them almost 2 years back, service was terrific every time I went to them. I beleive Jim was the man back then, he still around?

gription

Last time I wan in there he was there. Great guy. The service writers at Laurel are the best reason for buying a car from them. Audi # 3 will be purchased there in the spring.

The_Real_Jeff_Gannon

Thanks Paul !!!

allroad'Ed now

and that includes 3 Audis, 3 Porsches, 2 BMWs and assorted SUV's.

Shameless in Chicago

Your mileage may vary.