The A4 Avant 1.8 I bought recently has a smell of oil coming into the car when idling in traffic or moving slowly. The previous owner has replaced the engine breather pipework and valve to try and cure the problem. I think the problem is a leaking rocker cover gasket allowing oil to drip on to the hot exhaust downpipe and creating the fumes that come into the car. Is this a common problem and how difficult is it to replace the rocker cover gaskets?
Regards
Ron Aspinwall

 

That's probably exactly what it is. A valve cover gasket leak is very common and the replacement is easy. Before you take it apart, look at what hoses you'll have to undo and see if they're clamped with OEM one-time clamps. If so, pick up some screw clamps to replace them with before you start. For a first-timer with some knowledge of cars, you can plan on spending probably 45 minutes on the job (mainly in scraping and cleaning the gasket mating surface clean, so you don't induce further leaks). Parts are about $25.

 

Many thanks for your advice, it is much appreciated. I will order the parts and sort the problem; thanks again!

 

do 1.8's have cam plugs on the back of the engine like the 2.8? could also be that

 

Not sure about the cam plugs but if you are doing the valve cover gasket it would be best to also replaced the timing chain tensioner gasket & seal that are very common on those 1.8's.
They leak at the back of the head right down onto the exhaust system.