taher

I would like to post this message for anyone who might benefit from my experience. I have a 1998 Audi A4 2.8 w/ 77,800 miles. A short while ago, the engine started making a god awful buzzing, grinding noise when the car was first started. The noise seemed to be coming from the engine block. The noise goes away once the car is at normal engine and oil temp. I live in San Francisco, so it doesn't get too cold. The noise would fluctuate with the RPMs. I I asked all of the dealership service dept's, but they all said to just bring it in...at $100+ / hr...to diagnose. I tried to narrow the problem down myself, and with the help of this forum, diagnosed the problem to my power steering. The fuild level was WAY LOW. I also noticed residue on the hoses leading to and from the reservoir. I just filled the reservoir w/ Audi OEM hydraulic fluid (G.002000 - $23.00) and the noise dissappeared!!
Now this isn't a long term fix as there is definitely a leak in the power steering mechanism, however I asked another dealer and they said the fix could simply be a leaky hose or loose clamp - only a few bucks to fix for DIY. If the problem is greater, the power steering pump may need to be replaced. The good thing is that I know what the problem is, and won't have to pay a dealer big $$ just to diagnose the problem before they begin work.
Anyway, I hope this helps someone out there. Email me if you experience anything similar or want to know more about my situation.

IBD SV

Try the B5 forum

jjr2takeitaway

No 2.8's in the B6 forum dude.

Jet Jockey/A4 Pilot

Since the problem is not engine related but power steering related he's trying to give everybody a heads up on the noise symptoms.

needforsleep

Ya, but I hate to say it, but most people know what a low power steering system sounds like.

ThosD

Including those who can't find the light on their sun roof ****?

needforsleep

LOL!