2011 S5 Power Steering Leak

[Lachneyjames]

Cannot find too much about this on the internet, so I figure this doesn't happen much. Maybe you guys can help.

I got in my car last night after dinner and stated it up to head home. I put it in drive and noticed as the engine increased, there was a loud whining sound. It would get louder at some stop lights and lower at others. Once I got home, I messed around with the wheel and notice the sound would change with the turning of the wheel. I popped the power steering cap and found the fluid was too low to be seen. I filled the reservoir with the fluid I picked up from Audi today. It was a half pint low. There is clearly a leak. Has anyone had a power steering leak on their B8 S5? If so, where and what had to be replaced?

Also, keep in mind. I started this thread to help document this issue for others that my find themselves in the same position.

[Lachneyjames]

Update: I got the car up on ramps and took a look under it. I found the driver side tie rod boot was dripping and the passenger side boot was wet. I called up the dealer for a price on a new rack. They quoted 1338.00 for the rack with out labor. How hard is it to change yourself?

[11S5V8]

I'd start by not taking it to the dealer. Is there a garage that specializes in Audi/VW or just German cars in general? I've found that, aside from basic bolt-ons, its best to leave big things to the professionals but then again I do not have an understanding of your ability in car maintenance.

[Lachneyjames]

Update: This project is surprisingly easy! The only tools most people don't have, that you will need are a tie rod separator and a set of triple square bits. I will work on putting together a step by step in case anyone needs it.

FYI - I got two quotes for this job. Audi wanted $2200.00 just to replace the rack. Did not include fluids or tie rods. I had an independent shop price the whole job. Rack, tie rods, fluids and alignment. They wanted $3,500.00.

I completed the project myself in 4.5 hours. I had to bring it in for an alignment. To complete the job myself, I am all in at $833.00.