So this happened

[VeNoMS4]

Driving along when suddenly I get warning for over temp and alternator not charging the battery. Immediately pull over and open the hood to this

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160813/4cad402335b109d3c3fe6f0f33c23a2f.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160813/3d257eb5e20396f17a8d0db687cd40aa.jpg


I thought that was some wiring but was amazed at how flimsy it seemed then I noticed a belt was missing.. Bye bye serpentine belt.
Towed it to dealership and will get a good understanding on the extent of the issue on Monday. Hopefully it's just the belt.

[emoji22]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160813/d22c4d45736cfdb58b0fda173871ed94.jpg

Driving a '15 at till then.. Not a bad car in terms of looks. But I sure miss that v6 [emoji22]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160813/e42d2d03a47276615b284969a664d681.jpg

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[4Rings3Liters]

Dang, how many miles on it?

[VeNoMS4]

Just a bit under 58k miles

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[Pyromatic177]

Hopefully it's just the belt. On a semi different note, I rate the cleanliness of your engine bay 7/10 [>_<]

[VeNoMS4]

I promise.. I will strive for a 10/10 next time. I'm in the Olympic spirit

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[DGVR6]

Happened to me right before I traded in my s4.. Crank pulley separated

If you were driving along and didn't noticed anything until those lights went on I'm sure you're good.
I was playing around with a m4 when mine exploded revving at 6k. Just took out the fender liner and shredded the hood insulator.

Surprised I kept up with no boost though lol.

[xpoweruk]

How old is the belt ??
Did you have a new one when going stage 2??

[DGVR6]

How old is the belt ??
Did you have a new one when going stage 2??

Not sure if you're asking me or OP.. Don't think OP is stage 2 lol

[xpoweruk]

Not sure if you're asking me or OP.. Don't think OP is stage 2 lol

Oops lol my bad,I read you details as the Ops details [headbang]

[VeNoMS4]

Lol. No I'm completely stock.

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[VeNoMS4]

Happened to me right before I traded in my s4.. Crank pulley separated

If you were driving along and didn't noticed anything until those lights went on I'm sure you're good.
I was playing around with a m4 when mine exploded revving at 6k. Just took out the fender liner and shredded the hood insulator.

Surprised I kept up with no boost though lol.
Yikes.. That sounds a lot more scarier than what happened. I just have a bunch of belt fiber everywhere in the engine bay

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[BlownOne]

Gotta love black spaghetti lol. You'll be fine as long as you pulled over and shut it down.

[rtl5009]

Damn!

[cspcrx]

I just had my stage 2 pulley installed two weeks ago and was looking at the stock SC belt. It shows some serious signs of needing to be replaced, I am at 62k miles. Glad the pulley came with a new one.

[MagillaGorilla]

Service interval for b8.5 serpentine belt is 55k.

[Wreckm]

This also happened to me in late Feb.
2010 CPO was covered.
Belt Tensioner failed.
i had about 62k miles.
Damaged my SC Belt also.
Warranty ended in april :( [headbang]

[infinkc]

looks like your crank pulley took a dump, time for an upgrade if your out of warranty.

[theweebabyseamus]

Just be happy you don't have an N54...when my belt went it got sucked around the inside of the crank pulley and then through the front seal and into the crankcase. Trying to talk myself into a B8 at the moment. Lol

[VeNoMS4]

Gotta love black spaghetti lol. You'll be fine as long as you pulled over and shut it down.
Yep immediately shut down.. Besides, I lost all power steering. Going no where lol

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[VeNoMS4]

Well whatever is broken, my extended warranty should cover. That includes the belt. So not too worried

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[cspcrx]

Glad your getting it taken care of!

[VeNoMS4]

Update: So I just heard back from the SA at the dealership. The warranty company denied my claim based on an inspector's review. The inspector claimed that because I had aftermarket exhaust, wheels, and intake, they are going to deny the repairs to the crank pulley. Going to talk with warranty company tomorrow and demand they send another inspector. The last time I had warranty work done, the inspector was fine with the mods I had, including the intake and authorized over $2300 worth of work.

If they deny it again, I'm just going to cancel my contract.

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[DGVR6]

How does wheels intake and exhaust affect the crank?

Make sure you give them hell

[VenturiRS]

How does wheels intake and exhaust affect the crank?

Make sure you give them hell

The lightweight wheels make the car just a wee bit quicker
The intake gives the driver more wee sound, so he drives more aggressively
The exhaust goes vroom, and well, see above
Therefore, these all translate into accelerated crank wear.

I did the science. /law /s

[VeNoMS4]

The lightweight wheels make the car just a wee bit quicker
The intake gives the driver more wee sound, so he drives more aggressively
The exhaust goes vroom, and well, see above
Therefore, these all translate into accelerated crank wear.

I did the science. /law /s
Lol.. that must be it!

How does wheels intake and exhaust affect the crank?

Make sure you give them hell
I plan on it.. Will keep you guys posted

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[lexcruiser]

Thats BS! Shows the inspector has no idea how cars work outside of "it has wheels which make it move."
Beware though.. usually w/ these aftermarket warranty companies, if you cancel contract early, they may require you to reimburse all prior warranty work costs to them. Check your contract details.

[VeNoMS4]

Thats BS! Shows the inspector has no idea how cars work outside of "it has wheels which make it move."
Beware though.. usually w/ these aftermarket warranty companies, if you cancel contract early, they may require you to reimburse all prior warranty work costs to them. Check your contract details.
Ah I see.. Will do. Thanks for the heads up

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[scottycs]

I had the same on my n54, luckily mine wrapped around the alternator.



Just be happy you don't have an N54...when my belt went it got sucked around the inside of the crank pulley and then through the front seal and into the crankcase. Trying to talk myself into a B8 at the moment. Lol

[cjw]

Is there a thread that documents the year and mileage of pulley failures?

I've found nothing, but it would be nice to know if they almost always fail between 50-70k or do most people run 100k+ before this happens. Also, would be good to know if Audi ever fixed this with an updated part.

[MrFunk]

Update: So I just heard back from the SA at the dealership. The warranty company denied my claim based on an inspector's review. The inspector claimed that because I had aftermarket exhaust, wheels, and intake, they are going to deny the repairs to the crank pulley. Going to talk with warranty company tomorrow and demand they send another inspector. The last time I had warranty work done, the inspector was fine with the mods I had, including the intake and authorized over $2300 worth of work.

If they deny it again, I'm just going to cancel my contract.

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Looser inspector. Probably drives a fucking 86 Camri and just full of jealousy.

[DGVR6]

The lightweight wheels make the car just a wee bit quicker
The intake gives the driver more wee sound, so he drives more aggressively
The exhaust goes vroom, and well, see above
Therefore, these all translate into accelerated crank wear.

I did the science. /law /s

Then I should've been denied on all my claims lol!

[cspcrx]

WOW complete crap! Good luck!

[Thurston]

Update: So I just heard back from the SA at the dealership. The warranty company denied my claim based on an inspector's review. The inspector claimed that because I had aftermarket exhaust, wheels, and intake, they are going to deny the repairs to the crank pulley. Going to talk with warranty company tomorrow and demand they send another inspector. The last time I had warranty work done, the inspector was fine with the mods I had, including the intake and authorized over $2300 worth of work.

If they deny it again, I'm just going to cancel my contract.

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that's funny. I'm guessing this is an aftermarket warranty? what bullshit.

[theweebabyseamus]

I had the same on my n54, luckily mine wrapped around the alternator.

Yeah definitely lucky. I ended up having to pull the oil pan and clean it out and change the oil pickup. Also pulled the valve cover to check if the belt got wrapped around the timing chain. Then a month later my rear main seal pushed out because the valve cover had been bandaiding a bad PCV.

Do you miss the n54 at all? I keep going back and forth between the s4 and a n55 135.

[JoeR6]

Update: So I just heard back from the SA at the dealership. The warranty company denied my claim based on an inspector's review. The inspector claimed that because I had aftermarket exhaust, wheels, and intake, they are going to deny the repairs to the crank pulley. Going to talk with warranty company tomorrow and demand they send another inspector. The last time I had warranty work done, the inspector was fine with the mods I had, including the intake and authorized over $2300 worth of work.

If they deny it again, I'm just going to cancel my contract.

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What a PITA - If you don't get anywhere, please let us know which warranty company you have your contract with.

[VeNoMS4]

Update #2: For those curious, the warranty company is called Smart Autocare who is owned by another company called Fortega.

In any case, i spoke with them this morning and they outright denied me on my claims because of the mods. Especially the exhaust because apparently this can cause harm to the engine... i laughed at them and told them they need to know a thing or 2 about cars before they get into selling warranty for them. So with my mind set on cancelling the warranty, i drove to the dealership i bought the car and warranty from. These guys are a small family owned dealership so they remember their customers. They were dumbfounded when i told my story to them and said that they will talk to the warranty company for me. I believe they have internal contacts. Both Audi dealership and this smaller dealership told me that adding an intake, exhaust, and wheels should not void any kind of warranty.

Now im waiting on this smaller dealership to let me know if they were successful. Will update.

[VeNoMS4]

Looser inspector. Probably drives a fucking 86 Camri and just full of jealousy.

lol. So from what i heard, the inspectors are from 3rd party company who dont fully understand the policy and just write warranty void. but i like your reasoning.. be must drive a beige camry with beige interior

[cspcrx]

Update #2: For those curious, the warranty company is called Smart Autocare who is owned by another company called Fortega.

In any case, i spoke with them this morning and they outright denied me on my claims because of the mods. Especially the exhaust because apparently this can cause harm to the engine... i laughed at them and told them they need to know a thing or 2 about cars before they get into selling warranty for them. So with my mind set on cancelling the warranty, i drove to the dealership i bought the car and warranty from. These guys are a small family owned dealership so they remember their customers. They were dumbfounded when i told my story to them and said that they will talk to the warranty company for me. I believe they have internal contacts. Both Audi dealership and this smaller dealership told me that adding an intake, exhaust, and wheels should not void any kind of warranty.

Now im waiting on this smaller dealership to let me know if they were successful. Will update.

Hopefully they can put some pressure on them. What is the bill?

[DGVR6]

Don't cancel it yet.. Threaten them with a lawyer.

[VeNoMS4]

Hopefully they can put some pressure on them. What is the bill?

yea..audi quoted me $2785 out the door.

[Wiredin]

what else got damaged?

[VeNoMS4]

what else got damaged?

The SA at Audi said i need new crank and SC pulley and then the belts. I dont think anything else broke since i pulled the car over and towed it as soon as warning lights came on. cost is mostly labor from what i heard. 8 hours is what they estimate.

[mjames]

Service interval for b8.5 serpentine belt is 55k.
Same with B8? Mine is 2010 and I'm not sure mine's ever been replaced, and I'm at 81k miles.

Makes me nervous. So dealer should have replaced at 55k regardless, or only check its condition at 55k? Mine might have been fine... but I don't want this happening to me. The official 2010 maintenance guide PDF I have from Audi doesn't even mentioned serpentine belt replacement...

[grovlet]

Don't cancel it yet.. Threaten them with a lawyer.

Yup - specifically state that the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 (https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/15/chapter-50) defines that the Mods must directly cause the issue of concern - so they would need to definitively define exactly how the Wheels/Exhaust, etc directly caused the belt to fail.

If they can't provide those details then they CANNOT deny warranty - PERIOD.

So hit them with that first - then threaten with lawyer - and add that if the lawyer get's involved you'll be also suing for mental distress as well as you are completely mentally drained and this putting undue financial burden on your family and effecting your work performance.

[B18b1ex]

Same with B8? Mine is 2010 and I'm not sure mine's ever been replaced, and I'm at 81k miles.

Makes me nervous. So dealer should have replaced at 55k regardless, or only check its condition at 55k? Mine might have been fine... but I don't want this happening to me. The official 2010 maintenance guide PDF I have from Audi doesn't even mentioned serpentine belt replacement...


B8 is 75k. So if you are unsure, it's worth the $40 and a few minutes.

[cspcrx]

The SA at Audi said i need new crank and SC pulley and then the belts. I dont think anything else broke since i pulled the car over and towed it as soon as warning lights came on. cost is mostly labor from what i heard. 8 hours is what they estimate.

I understand the belt and the crank pulley. I do not understand the SC pulley needing to be replaced. Was it somehow damaged?

[KnewJack]

yea..audi quoted me $2785 out the door.
Wow that's a money maker! They are making an easy $1800 in labor. Wonder how the SC pulley was damaged? If they deny the claim it is not very hard to do yourself if you have any mechanical know how. Biggest thing is removing or just spacing the front clip. Good luck.

Hell, if you lived close to me I'd do it for a lobster dinner and some brew! [:D]

[Dirt]

B8 is 75k. So if you are unsure, it's worth the $40 and a few minutes.

+1

I was just looking at the maintenance schedule for my 2011 this afternoon. Ironically, because if this thread.

.

[14S4GWM]

Whats weird is the 8.5 is 55k

[VeNoMS4]

I understand the belt and the crank pulley. I do not understand the SC pulley needing to be replaced. Was it somehow damaged?
When the belt exploded essentially, it must have damaged other components. I mean my car was also leaking oil.. Small bit but yes. I'm not 100% sure why the sc pulley needs to pulled either

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[VeNoMS4]

Yup - specifically state that the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 (https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/15/chapter-50) defines that the Mods must directly cause the issue of concern - so they would need to definitively define exactly how the Wheels/Exhaust, etc directly caused the belt to fail.

If they can't provide those details then they CANNOT deny warranty - PERIOD.

So hit them with that first - then threaten with lawyer - and add that if the lawyer get's involved you'll be also suing for mental distress as well as you are completely mentally drained and this putting undue financial burden on your family and effecting your work performance.
I never knew this existed. Wow.. Thank you! I would love for them prove that wheels and exhaust caused my belt to break.

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[VeNoMS4]

Wow that's a money maker! They are making an easy $1800 in labor. Wonder how the SC pulley was damaged? If they deny the claim it is not very hard to do yourself if you have any mechanical know how. Biggest thing is removing or just spacing the front clip. Good luck.

Hell, if you lived close to me I'd do it for a lobster dinner and some brew! [:D]
Aww man..I definitely would've. I would get you 2 lobster dinner and some craft brew

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[mjames]

B8 is 75k. So if you are unsure, it's worth the $40 and a few minutes.
So this belt should have been changed at 75k for B8 regardless of condition? Or just check? My dealer performed by 75k an 85k service and I don't believe any belts were replaced...

[jmeenach]

Update: So I just heard back from the SA at the dealership. The warranty company denied my claim based on an inspector's review. The inspector claimed that because I had aftermarket exhaust, wheels, and intake, they are going to deny the repairs to the crank pulley. Going to talk with warranty company tomorrow and demand they send another inspector. The last time I had warranty work done, the inspector was fine with the mods I had, including the intake and authorized over $2300 worth of work.

If they deny it again, I'm just going to cancel my contract.

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The Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act prohibits this specifically. They have to be able to PROVE that your items caused it, which they can't. I would threaten legal action.

[VeNoMS4]

The Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act prohibits this specifically. They have to be able to PROVE that your items caused it, which they can't. I would threaten legal action.
Yes. Thanks for the info guys. Will use it if it comes down to it

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[VeNoMS4]

so for Those curious on the Magnusson-Moss warranty act, especially for us car enthusiasts, this is a good read.

http://www.dummies.com/home-garden/car-repair/keeping-your-mods-warranty-intact/

and my favorite sentence

"Further, under the act, aftermarket equipment that improves performance does not automatically void a vehicle manufacturer’s original warranty, unless the warranty clearly states the addition of aftermarket equipment automatically voids your vehicle’s warranty, or if it can be proven that the aftermarket device is the direct cause of the failure."

[AAAA]

so for Those curious on the Magnusson-Moss warranty act, especially for us car enthusiasts, this is a good read.

http://www.dummies.com/home-garden/car-repair/keeping-your-mods-warranty-intact/

and my favorite sentence

"Further, under the act, aftermarket equipment that improves performance does not automatically void a vehicle manufacturer’s original warranty, unless the warranty clearly states the addition of aftermarket equipment automatically voids your vehicle’s warranty, or if it can be proven that the aftermarket device is the direct cause of the failure."

**lazy disclaimer** - I didn't actually read the link or remember specifically what's in the act itself, but the quote you posted states a manufacturer's warranty. Does it apply to 3rd party aftermarket warranties as well?

[VeNoMS4]

**lazy disclaimer** - I didn't actually read the link or remember specifically what's in the act itself, but the quote you posted states a manufacturer's warranty. Does it apply to 3rd party aftermarket warranties as well?
Yes.

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[B18b1ex]

So this belt should have been changed at 75k for B8 regardless of condition? Or just check? My dealer performed by 75k an 85k service and I don't believe any belts were replaced...

It should be changed, that's the interval for replacement.


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[GeoJoe]

These guys are a small family owned dealership so they remember their customers.

Now im waiting on this smaller dealership to let me know if they were successful. Will update.

Relationships with dealers who are going to do the work makes all the difference. Good luck OP!

[VeNoMS4]

So.. Crappy news guys. After reading in depth through the warranty contract, there is clause that specifically states that "vehicles with modifications or alterations to the powertrain, exhaust system, and suspension that do not meet manufacturer's specifications or not approved by vehicle manufacturer.... Are not covered”

So essentially, looks like I'm going to fork over the money for the fix and cancel the warranty tomorrow (what's the point if they won't cover the most important drive train). Looks like the Magnusson Moss law won't help me now? I'm not too sure. Technically I can still argue based on technical grounds, but a contract is a contract right?

On the bright side, looks like I can finally go stage 1 lol haha

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[phxS4]

So.. Crappy news guys. After reading in depth through the warranty contract, there is clause that specifically states that "vehicles with modifications or alterations to the powertrain, exhaust system, and suspension that do not meet manufacturer's specifications or not approved by vehicle manufacturer.... Are not covered”

So essentially, looks like I'm going to fork over the money for the fix and cancel the warranty tomorrow (what's the point if they won't cover the most important drive train). Looks like the Magnusson Moss law won't help me now? I'm not too sure. Technically I can still argue based on technical grounds, but a contract is a contract right?

On the bright side, looks like I can finally go stage 1 lol haha

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If you're cancelling your warranty - I would mod the shit out of that thing now. Go strait to stage 2 and tcu. Upgrade the heat exchanger... Etc. are they giving you a credit back for cancelling the warranty?

[VeNoMS4]

If you're cancelling your warranty - I would mod the shit out of that thing now. Go strait to stage 2 and tcu. Upgrade the heat exchanger... Etc. are they giving you a credit back for cancelling the warranty?
It should be pro rated.. I should get back a decent chunk of it back

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[cspcrx]

Stage 2 and TCU, come on in the waters nice! [:D]

Seriously sorry to hear about that. This is why I did not buy an extended warranty.

[VeNoMS4]

Stage 2 and TCU, come on in the waters nice! [:D]

Seriously sorry to hear about that. This is why I did not buy an extended warranty.
Wish I could say that lol. Not too knowledgeable when it comes to fixing cars. But now I have no choice but to learn haha. Should be fun

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[eurotic]

So.. Crappy news guys. After reading in depth through the warranty contract, there is clause that specifically states that "vehicles with modifications or alterations to the powertrain, exhaust system, and suspension that do not meet manufacturer's specifications or not approved by vehicle manufacturer.... Are not covered”

So essentially, looks like I'm going to fork over the money for the fix and cancel the warranty tomorrow (what's the point if they won't cover the most important drive train). Looks like the Magnusson Moss law won't help me now? I'm not too sure. Technically I can still argue based on technical grounds, but a contract is a contract right?

On the bright side, looks like I can finally go stage 1 lol haha

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That still sounds vague. Did you mod the part that broke or mid a part that caused the part to break? If you replaced the supercharger with a different one the sure I can see no coverage if the charger itself brakes or the belts that are attached. Similarly if you changed your crank pulley maybe you be on the hook.

Without reading it myself it sounds like you could still fight it?

[VeNoMS4]

That still sounds vague. Did you mod the part that broke or mid a part that caused the part to break? If you replaced the supercharger with a different one the sure I can see no coverage if the charger itself brakes or the belts that are attached. Similarly if you changed your crank pulley maybe you be on the hook.

Without reading it myself it sounds like you could still fight it?
I didn't change anything that actually broke. Only things I changed were the catback exhaust and intake. I wish I could fight but idk what that would lead to. The contract unfortunately is pretty clear that I can't mod the exhaust system

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[JustPlaneChris]

Wow, that totally sucks. It prompted me to pull out the contract for my extended warranty. It doesn't read the same, but exclusion #1 says:

"Any loss, damage or expense caused by accidents, any alteration to the vehicle or the part, use of oversized or undersized tires or wheels, alteration to the vehicle not authorized by its manufacturer, the failure of any part not covered by this service contract, or accidental loss."

By the letter of that statement, any alteration to the vehicle would allow them to deny coverage. I installed a weighted shift knob, and plastidipped my wheels. DENIED! K&N air filter and 034 intake hose? DENIED!

It goes on to say further on:

"Any claim if your vehicle is used for competitive driving or racing....carriage of passengers for hire...."

Oh, you went to the autocross one time to safely discover the limits of your car? DENIED. Worked part time for Uber? DENIED.

This kind of weaseling just pisses me off no end. I'm sorely tempted to cancel the contract right now and just stash the money in savings in case I need it for future repairs. [evilmad]

[GeoJoe]

Just double checking that these cars are NOT CPO from Audi, but rather have an extended warranty via a 3rd party?

[scottycs]

pretty standard, not sure why you are upset?

Also, who ubers an S4?

[VeNoMS4]

Just double checking that these cars are NOT CPO from Audi, but rather have an extended warranty via a 3rd party?
Yea.. Mine is an extended warranty from 3rd party. I was told even Audi wouldn't deny my claim because I have an exhaust but this warranty company deemed adding an after market exhaust means I'm putting my engine at risk. What bs

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[VeNoMS4]

Wow, that totally sucks. It prompted me to pull out the contract for my extended warranty. It doesn't read the same, but exclusion #1 says:

"Any loss, damage or expense caused by accidents, any alteration to the vehicle or the part, use of oversized or undersized tires or wheels, alteration to the vehicle not authorized by its manufacturer, the failure of any part not covered by this service contract, or accidental loss."

By the letter of that statement, any alteration to the vehicle would allow them to deny coverage. I installed a weighted shift knob, and plastidipped my wheels. DENIED! K&N air filter and 034 intake hose? DENIED!

It goes on to say further on:

"Any claim if your vehicle is used for competitive driving or racing....carriage of passengers for hire...."

Oh, you went to the autocross one time to safely discover the limits of your car? DENIED. Worked part time for Uber? DENIED.

This kind of weaseling just pisses me off no end. I'm sorely tempted to cancel the contract right now and just stash the money in savings in case I need it for future repairs. [evilmad]
I love how they use umbrella terms.. idk if we can even fight it. Idk if we can even ask them to prove that your air filter in fact did blow up your engine. God forbid, but if it ever happens, these a**holes can and will deny your claim over it.

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[DGVR6]

Smh.. This is why either CPO through Audi or MBI from gieco.

Not the fact that some of them hold true to their word when covering parts, they will just try any way to weasel out and fight to the bitter end.

[VeNoMS4]

It does make me wonder, if they deny any form of engine coverage, will they deny coverage on transmission? I know these cars have dsg issues. Last thing I want it to have a dsg issue right after I cancel the warranty that would've covered it.. That would suck big time.

Anyone have any thoughts?

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[JustPlaneChris]

Any way you look at it, these guys are just insurance companies. And as such, they are looking out for their stakeholders, NOT us. If they can find a way to deny coverage, they will. It's in their best interest, after all!

The way mine is worded, it says 'any alterations' are reasons to be excluded. It doesn't really say 'for this part of the car'.

[JustPlaneChris]

Smh.. This is why either CPO through Audi or MBI from gieco.

Not the fact that some of them hold true to they're word when covering parts, they will just try any we to weasel out and fight to the bitter end.

How is MBI from Geico better / different? I'm researching now, just thought I'd ask. :)

EDIT: Ah, nevermind. Only for vehicles with < 15k miles.

[breyton490]

Stage 2 and TCU, come on in the waters nice! [:D]

Seriously sorry to hear about that. This is why I did not buy an extended warranty.

+1... Skip Stage 1 and go straight to Stage 2 at a minimum. You will not be disappointed.

[VeNoMS4]

Any way you look at it, these guys are just insurance companies. And as such, they are looking out for their stakeholders, NOT us. If they can find a way to deny coverage, they will. It's in their best interest, after all!

The way mine is worded, it says 'any alterations' are reasons to be excluded. It doesn't really say 'for this part of the car'.

whoever wrote your contract seems lazy and just wrote "any alterations" lol. They just want to cover everything possible. In a way that's better because you can argue specifics but it is also bad because they can technically give you BS because you changed your wheels like they initially did on mine. Even an intake perhaps. ahh.. i just dont want to deal with these jerks anymore

[VeNoMS4]

How is MBI from Geico better / different? I'm researching now, just thought I'd ask. :)

EDIT: Ah, nevermind. Only for vehicles with < 15k miles.

what's the point of getting MBI from geico, wouldnt you have factory warranty at this point anyway? i can see that it covers up to 100k miles or 7 years. but seems silly having 2 warranties just in anticipation of one running out. ehh..

[JustPlaneChris]

whoever wrote your contract seems lazy and just wrote "any alterations" lol. They just want to cover everything possible. In a way that's better because you can argue specifics but it is also bad because they can technically give you BS because you changed your wheels like they initially did on mine. Even an intake perhaps. ahh.. i just dont want to deal with these jerks anymoreI haven't even had to deal with them yet, and I already don't want to! I think I'm just going to cancel it and be done. Hell, the main thing I worry about on my car (clutch) isn't covered anyway, so WTF right?

[VeNoMS4]

I haven't even had to deal with them yet, and I already don't want to! I think I'm just going to cancel it and be done. Hell, the main thing I worry about on my car (clutch) isn't covered anyway, so WTF right?
So you have a b8.5 so I assume the thermostat and water pump should've been fixed.

I didn't want to start the thread so everyone out there cancels their warranty because of my experience. Read the warranty policy, research on what the main failures are and go from there. Just my 2 cents

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[JustPlaneChris]

Yep, B8.5 and from what I've read it seems to be pretty well sorted out and reliable.

I'm glad you posted about your experience, because otherwise I would have never thought to read all the fine print about the exclusions until such time I tried to use it. I'd rather short circuit all that anger. LOL

[cspcrx]

Wow, that totally sucks. It prompted me to pull out the contract for my extended warranty. It doesn't read the same, but exclusion #1 says:

"Any loss, damage or expense caused by accidents, any alteration to the vehicle or the part, use of oversized or undersized tires or wheels, alteration to the vehicle not authorized by its manufacturer, the failure of any part not covered by this service contract, or accidental loss."

By the letter of that statement, any alteration to the vehicle would allow them to deny coverage. I installed a weighted shift knob, and plastidipped my wheels. DENIED! K&N air filter and 034 intake hose? DENIED!

It goes on to say further on:

"Any claim if your vehicle is used for competitive driving or racing....carriage of passengers for hire...."

Oh, you went to the autocross one time to safely discover the limits of your car? DENIED. Worked part time for Uber? DENIED.

This kind of weaseling just pisses me off no end. I'm sorely tempted to cancel the contract right now and just stash the money in savings in case I need it for future repairs. [evilmad]

Just by putting a 265 tire one, like I have and 9.5" wide wheels that would void your warranty. What a Joke and Scam!

[VeNoMS4]

Just by putting a 265 tire one, like I have and 9.5" wide wheels that would void your warranty. What a Joke and Scam!

Now that would piss me off beyond belief. That is essentially a scam

[Vogz]

3rd party "warranties" are a joke. Stay away, far away.

This thread is perfect evidence of how useless they really are.

OP, if you haven't approved the work at the dealer yet, try getting a quote from an independent mechanic that works on Audis. Will probably be FAR cheaper.

[VeNoMS4]

3rd party "warranties" are a joke. Stay away, far away.

This thread is perfect evidence of how useless they really are.

OP, if you haven't approved the work at the dealer yet, try getting a quote from an independent mechanic that works on Audis. Will probably be FAR cheaper.

i already told them to start the work. I would love to go elsewhere, but i've had a loaner from them for over a week now during this entire mess. It just doesnt feel right that i go there get my car, say thanks for the loaner, and take my car elsewhere after everything. This one time and then im finding some good shops in AZ to do work or im going to do it myself.

Any one have good recommendations for shops in AZ? I know we have goodspeed, munich motors, autohaus, tuning gruppe, etc. Which ones do most of you guys recommend?

thanks

[jsh139]

Hmm, I guess not all third party warranties are made the same. I have an exclusionary extended warranty that is backed by Allstate (well, an insurance company in Florida that is part of the Allstate network). My policy explicitly states that aftermarket parts must cause the failure in order for a claim to be denied. And, it would only deny that one claim, not "void" the whole warranty. So, if I have an intake, and the navigation screen goes out, they (in theory) wouldn't be able to deny the claim.

Read section "e)":

http://i.imgur.com/OC8PLNPl.jpg

[cspcrx]

Venom just had my AMS Alpha installed by Parts Score in Scottsdale. Jason did great work came highly recommended and I am going to use him for other work in the future. I posted a review on the local thread. Only bad this is its by the Scottsdale Airpart, I know your on my side of town, so its a bit of a haul.

[stereojorge]

pretty standard, not sure why you are upset?

Also, who ubers an S4?

I have 3 buddies who, for the f*&k of it, Uber occasionally in a Stage 1 + TCU Tuned B8.5 S4, a Stage 2 Q5 and another in a Stage 2+ B7 A4, so I guess a few people do. lol

[VeNoMS4]

Hmm, I guess not all third party warranties are made the same. I have an exclusionary extended warranty that is backed by Allstate (well, an insurance company in Florida that is part of the Allstate network). My policy explicitly states that aftermarket parts must cause the failure in order for a claim to be denied. And, it would only deny that one claim, not "void" the whole warranty. So, if I have an intake, and the navigation screen goes out, they (in theory) wouldn't be able to deny the claim.

Read section "e)":

http://i.imgur.com/OC8PLNPl.jpg

see, this just makes a lot more sense. I suppose there are companies out there who value customers and have some common sense. Not the one i just dumped though.

[VeNoMS4]

Venom just had my AMS Alpha installed by Parts Score in Scottsdale. Jason did great work came highly recommended and I am going to use him for other work in the future. I posted a review on the local thread. Only bad this is its by the Scottsdale Airpart, I know your on my side of town, so its a bit of a haul.

hey, if its a good shop, im all for it. I'll take a look. thanks

[VeNoMS4]

So I finally got my car back. Runs great but out of $2800. Oh well.. Pay to play right? I spoke with the dealership i bought the car from and they message me while I was at work.. Via text.. And say that since I already had one claim with them, they won't give me back any of my money. Wtf!? I think now the dealership is trying to screw me over. The warranty is pro rated..I bought it for 6 years and 60k miles. Going to speak with the warranty company now. This has to be the worst experience ever.

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[cspcrx]

Sorry to hear that! Glad you got your car back. What all did they do?

As for the post above section "e". Trailer hitch? really? What a freaking scam!

[VeNoMS4]

Sorry to hear that! Glad you got your car back. What all did they do?

As for the post above section "e". Trailer hitch? really? What a freaking scam!
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160826/f7926d7bc6ec721a4693e0bc247ea70e.jpg

Take a look.

But at least his warranty implies his mods need to be the root cause for them to deny warranty.. Which automatically makes them better than mine.

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[mcoomer]

Service interval for b8.5 serpentine belt is 55k.

That's exactly what I was going to say. This thread makes me want to order one now as we're right at that on our car.

Mike

[jsh139]

So I finally got my car back. Runs great but out of $2800. Oh well.. Pay to play right? I spoke with the dealership i bought the car from and they message me while I was at work.. Via text.. And say that since I already had one claim with them, they won't give me back any of my money. Wtf!? I think now the dealership is trying to screw me over. The warranty is pro rated..I bought it for 6 years and 60k miles. Going to speak with the warranty company now. This has to be the worst experience ever.

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

They'll typically refund you a prorated portion of the insurance premium MINUS any money paid out for claims. So, I'm guessing that is why they're saying there would be no refund.

I would also ask them what their policy is on other unrelated claims. Like, if your navigation screen dies, are they really going to deny your claim because of an intake and exhaust??? If the answer is no, you might as well keep the warranty for claims on non-powertrain related items.

[VeNoMS4]

They'll typically refund you a prorated portion of the insurance premium MINUS any money paid out for claims. So, I'm guessing that is why they're saying there would be no refund.

I would also ask them what their policy is on other unrelated claims. Like, if your navigation screen dies, are they really going to deny your claim because of an intake and exhaust??? If the answer is no, you might as well keep the warranty for claims on non-powertrain related items.

yea, that's exactly my plan. I do want to clarify that if they say engine wont be covered, does that also mean transmission? I wanted to put a cup kit and i cant do that with this warranty. But i'll just keep it for the electronics i suppose.

[-leman-]

Am I the only one who is surprised they changed you charger drive unit? It's actually the main contributor to your parts list total...

This reminds me that when I had my crank pulley fail the indy shop that did the job tried to tell me replace the very same part actually. They claimed that the charger appeared to be jammed and was not easily rotated by hand. They claimed it was due to belt debris getting inbetween the charger pulley and the drive unit casing. I had to come to the shop and try turning the charger pulley myself to check it's all fine and should be just properly cleaned.

[VeNoMS4]

Am I the only one who is surprised they changed you charger drive unit? It's actually the main contributor to your parts list total...

This reminds me that when I had my crank pulley fail the indy shop that did the job tried to tell me replace the very same part actually. They claimed that the charger appeared to be jammed and was not easily rotated by hand. They claimed it was due to belt debris getting inbetween the charger pulley and the drive unit casing. I had to come to the shop and try turning the charger pulley myself to check it's all fine and should be just properly cleaned.

yea.. oh well. it's done. Since my warranty wont cover my engine anymore and its pointless asking for a refund check because i already had a claim with them, im just going to local shops for any engine related work. I'll post here so you guys can comment on how not to get ripped off. I still dont know enough to call BS.

[jsh139]

yea, that's exactly my plan. I do want to clarify that if they say engine wont be covered, does that also mean transmission? I wanted to put a cup kit and i cant do that with this warranty. But i'll just keep it for the electronics i suppose.

Most likely, yeah. They'll probably say no powertrain claims which would include engine, transmission, and probably differentials. But, I would of course call them to be sure. Or, maybe see if you can get something in writing stating exactly what is and what isn't covered now.

[cspcrx]

Am I the only one who is surprised they changed you charger drive unit? It's actually the main contributor to your parts list total...

This reminds me that when I had my crank pulley fail the indy shop that did the job tried to tell me replace the very same part actually. They claimed that the charger appeared to be jammed and was not easily rotated by hand. They claimed it was due to belt debris getting inbetween the charger pulley and the drive unit casing. I had to come to the shop and try turning the charger pulley myself to check it's all fine and should be just properly cleaned.

What the heck is that, drive unit? Showing my ignorance.

[-leman-]

That's the front part of the supercharger unit that has the pulley on it. Inside is the big coil to dampen the uneven load created by the charger and a gear drive. It has a separate oil system from the main charger unit and literally nothing to break in there.

Can't post a pic as I'm on my phone now, but hope my description is more or less clear :)

[cspcrx]

Yes thanks, that's an expensive part

[GRUMPY-S4]

Man this is a sad story and the reason why I didnt get extended warranty. If you plan on modding ANYTHING performance related, its pointless to get an extended warranty.


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[viceroy1976]

So this happened to me today too, except mine is a B8 with 75k miles. No tune, only exhaust and intake.

I had just pulled up at a stop sign and heard a horrible crunch and a slight pull in the steering, so I lifted off the gas immediately and the sound didn't continue.
I slowly accelerated again and all seemed well. About 50m further along I heard the same crunching sound and lost all power steering.
I immediately pulled over, shut off the engine and opened the hood.
Saw the same spagettification as OP.

Mine is also leaking what I assume is coolant.
Going to monitor the coolant level overnight to confirm, but it's slightly pink, slightly greasy liquid that does evaporate so most likely coolant.
It was pissing out of the front the engine at the bottom, passenger side in my RHD car.
I'm hoping that the shredding belt pulled a water line out, or otherwise I have a nasty feeling I'm looking at quite a large bill.

On a positive note, since the front of the car will be removed, its the perfect opportunity to go stage 2 and save a little on labour.

[VeNoMS4]

So this happened to me today too, except mine is a B8 with 75k miles. No tune, only exhaust and intake.

I had just pulled up at a stop sign and heard a horrible crunch and a slight pull in the steering, so I lifted off the gas immediately and the sound didn't continue.
I slowly accelerated again and all seemed well. About 50m further along I heard the same crunching sound and lost all power steering.
I immediately pulled over, shut off the engine and opened the hood.
Saw the same spagettification as OP.

Mine is also leaking what I assume is coolant.
Going to monitor the coolant level overnight to confirm, but it's slightly pink, slightly greasy liquid that does evaporate so most likely coolant.
It was pissing out of the front the engine at the bottom, passenger side in my RHD car.
I'm hoping that the shredding belt pulled a water line out, or otherwise I have a nasty feeling I'm looking at quite a large bill.

On a positive note, since the front of the car will be removed, its the perfect opportunity to go stage 2 and save a little on labour.
Hey so if you have the extended warranty and all your old parts.. Exhaust and intake. I would swap the aftermarket ones for the factory ones. I'd hate to see what happened to me, happen to anyone else

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[viceroy1976]

Hey so if you have the extended warranty and all your old parts.. Exhaust and intake. I would swap the aftermarket ones for the factory ones. I'd hate to see what happened to me, happen to anyone else

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No aftermarket warranty. This is for my account, Just hoping nothing serious broke.

[cspcrx]

Curious to hear what got damaged to cause the leak. Getting paranoid now about my belt and crank pulley. Seems like replacing before it destroys its self and other stuff is much cheaper!

[VeNoMS4]

Curious to hear what got damaged to cause the leak. Getting paranoid now about my belt and crank pulley. Seems like replacing before it destroys its self and other stuff is much cheaper!

i just wish there was an easy way to diagnose this. Btw, did you see the poker run ad i posted on the regional forum?

[viceroy1976]

Curious to hear what got damaged to cause the leak. Getting paranoid now about my belt and crank pulley. Seems like replacing before it destroys its self and other stuff is much cheaper!

As am I.
I'll only know when I get the front of the car stripped off.

[Wiredin]

man this scares me. so is it only the belt that needs changing? or do we need to do the pulleys as well as preventative servicing.

[viceroy1976]

It might be an idea to do the tensioners and idler pulley as preventative maintenance.
Come to think of it, the crank pulley is also a point of failure, so that could also be changed out.

[cspcrx]

i just wish there was an easy way to diagnose this. Btw, did you see the poker run ad i posted on the regional forum?

Yes.

Did you have any signs yours was letting go? Rough idle, anything out of the ordinary a day or so before or right before. Trying to see if there are signs we should watch for. Feel like its a ticking time bomb in there! Aftermarket options are looking more and more appealing by the day!

[VeNoMS4]

Yes.

Did you have any signs yours was letting go? Rough idle, anything out of the ordinary a day or so before or right before. Trying to see if there are signs we should watch for. Feel like its a ticking time bomb in there! Aftermarket options are looking more and more appealing by the day!
Scary thing.. I got nothing. Car ran fine until all the warning lights came on and I lost power steering and temp went up. :/ There is no cues at all that I could tell of. Maybe it will be different for others

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[cspcrx]

Thanks! That is scary for sure. I am about 2k away from my 65k service. I am going to have them check the serpentine belt and crank pulley for this very reason. Hard to get a solid view of it from above. I imagine from below you can get a better view.

[sittinlow]

Sucks there is no warning for this. Guess I will be ordering that JHM crank pulley sooner rather than later.

[SDBolts]

Seems like lots of dealerships don't know about or don't care about the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0138-auto-warranties-routine-maintenance).

If you don't feel like reading it, it basically says it's illegal for a manufacturer to void a warranty for using an independent service shop or aftermarket parts, unless they can reasonably prove that said shop or parts caused the failure of the car. Unfortunately, some dealers will act like this isn't the case unless you bring it up and/or threaten litigation. Since it's normally much more expensive to take the dealer/manufacturer to court than it is to pay out of pocket for the repairs, it's seldom enforced. This same law makes 'Warranty Void If Removed' stickers like those on an XBOX 1 illegal, but again, who's going to sue Microsoft over something like that?

I did use it to my advantage with my 2007 Subaru Legacy GT Spec.B when I lost the ringlands on cylinder #4. Even though my car was modified and reflashed, I was able to point out this law and document numerous incidents of similar failure in non-modified cars. I ended up getting Subaru to cover 50% of the replacement cost of a new shortblock.

[VeNoMS4]

Seems like lots of dealerships don't know about or don't care about the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0138-auto-warranties-routine-maintenance).

If you don't feel like reading it, it basically says it's illegal for a manufacturer to void a warranty for using an independent service shop or aftermarket parts, unless they can reasonably prove that said shop or parts caused the failure of the car. Unfortunately, some dealers will act like this isn't the case unless you bring it up and/or threaten litigation. Since it's normally much more expensive to take the dealer/manufacturer to court than it is to pay out of pocket for the repairs, it's seldom enforced. This same law makes 'Warranty Void If Removed' stickers like those on an XBOX 1 illegal, but again, who's going to sue Microsoft over something like that?

I did use it to my advantage with my 2007 Subaru Legacy GT Spec.B when I lost the ringlands on cylinder #4. Even though my car was modified and reflashed, I was able to point out this law and document numerous incidents of similar failure in non-modified cars. I ended up getting Subaru to cover 50% of the replacement cost of a new shortblock.

while i did come to know about this law through this thread, after reading through my contract, the slimy little lawyers who wrote it made sure they can get away with it. In my case, if you read through this thread, they need to replace my crank pulley and belts, etc. They denied my claim because i had an aftermarket exhaust. Now i could have easily told them to prove the correlation between the exhaust and the crank pulley, but i know it wouldnt have worked since it's in the contract i signed.

what they essentially did was deny my claim because the exhaust was apparently a big enough reason to cause concern for the engine. The way that claim adjusting loser spoke to me, i would have loved to punch him in his mouth. The arrogance ...ahh!

anyways, that was my lovely experience with these grade A jerks.

[fitzydude]

Why are you wanting time with stage 2 when you can go right to dual pulley? You've got to replace the crank and SC pulley anyway...

[SDBolts]

Yep, grade A asshats for sure. If you were taking them to court, they'd probably have a tough time winning if we're only talking a catback exhaust, but you probably would be out more money with a lawyer.

[SDBolts]

Yeah, they're really walking the line by trying to assert that a simple change of exhaust would cause a problem with the crank pulley and belts. I really doubt they could make that stick in court, but unless you're willing to take them there, they get away with it.

[VeNoMS4]

Yeah, they're really walking the line by trying to assert that a simple change of exhaust would cause a problem with the crank pulley and belts. I really doubt they could make that stick in court, but unless you're willing to take them there, they get away with it.

yup and that's what they were betting on. But their first argument would be that it's on the contract.