If it was the heater core wouldnt it still smell if it was on recirculate?

 

I found a completely separated in two hose right off a T that comes from the very top of the intake runs down the right side of motor into the block right above the oil filter. I think it might be the crankcase breather. I dont know if that can cause a coolant smell but I sure was excited and thought I found the problem. Now I have to some how get that T off and replace that.. woohoo.

 

I think that hose causes you to burn oil. I might be wrong, don't remember exactly.

 

You mean you can smell coolant from under the intake manifold where the oil filter is? There is a TSB for that from audi, its a bad O-ring that only leaks when its cold usually. You also may lose heating capacity inside the cabin a bit. Try to see if there is any dried coolant (pink/white) trail from under the car from there.

 

The best way to check for coolant leaks is to pressurize the system. You might be able to borrow a pressure tester from one of the major parts stores. Good Hunting
Anthonyz
Tony@zippyoil.com

 

I just smell coolant somewhere on the drivers side of motor. With the hood closed I can sometimes smell it in the front grill and where the hood and windshield meet. I replaced the cabin filter and it didn't help much. Waste of $60. This is driving me crazy...

 

Then is like Auditech suggested, the leak is probably going to be coolant crossover pipe, which is a pain in the butt.
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...-Flange-Change

 

Yup, its either the coolant flange leaking coolant on top of the exhaust, or that coolant plug under the intake manifold. If you get a mechanics mirror and a flash light you will probably find a dried coolant trail somewhere, or have a mechanic diagnose it if you feel its over your head.

 

Thanks for the advice ill get me a mirror and flashlight and peek around some more.

 

I experienced the same smell in my A4 1.8 (65,000 miles) for just under a month. The car started overheating two days ago and the dealership is saying it's the flange. I'm having them replace it for $400.00 - mostly labor. I'd check this out if I was you.

Can anyone tell me if I'm getting a good rate? I've only owned the car for a little less than a year and I'm just curious if the dealership is jerking me around.