I have an 2001 Audi A4 2.8 that has just started leaking oil, the oil leak seems to be coming from the top of the engine and reviewing previous posts, I think the problem could be a result of the cam seals leaking.

If this is the case, how big of a job is it to replace the cam seals and plug? What would a garage charge to fix?

What is the cam plug?

Is it worth doing the cam belt and water pump at the same time, my car has done 61K miles on the original belt?

If it is not the cam seals what are other common causes of leaks?

A friend says it could be the breather hose causing the problem.

Any help very much appreciated.

Thanks

Luke

 

Cam seals are a big job, as the cam sprockets have to be removed (which means the timing belt has to be removed and further disassembly done). If you go somewhere to have it done, go ahead and do the whole t-belt service as well to avoid duplicating most of those labor charges later on when the t-belt is due to be done by mileage.

Have you ruled out valve cover gaskets? They're a possibility, and they're much easier and cheaper to do. I'd do the easy/inexpensive stuff first to see if you cure the problem. It could well be the cam seals though, so don't dismiss that.