Audi A6, Saloon, 3L (2967 cc), Diesel 2012 148,500 miles

In November 2025, German Autocentre investigated an oil leak: “Visually looks to be coming from the upper sump, would require engine removal for this repair, refer to the dealer”. I did not proceed.

WC 26th January, the alternator belt has slipped off, seemingly because it is covered in oil. AA has refitted the same belt and the car has not been driven since.

I have purchased a new car and need now only transport this car ~200 miles.

I have spoken again to German Autocentre who suggested replacing the Alternator Belt with a new one might make the journey.

I’ve contacted a local garage about carrying out the work. Without looking, the local garage suggested the issue might be the Front Pulley System, but he seemed reluctant to carry out the work.

I am a bit unsure what my best course of action is.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks
 

Depends how bad the oil leak is. Get the engine steam cleaned or degrease and hose it down (with the engine running I might add). I'd fit a new belt and take the gamble. Assume you're with AA, etc. Personally, avoid motorways. If the worst should happen, it's not a nice place to be. Alternative is hire a car trailer if your current car has ability to tow, and you're within legal limits, etc. If all else fails, just pay to get it transported.

Thanks. I should have mentioned I did have the engine cleaned when the German Autocentre were investigating the oil leak, at their request. This was what allowed them to identify general area from which the leak was coming from.

I am tempted as you suggest to get the new alternator belt fitted and attempt to get it where I need. It just seems people are reluctant to do the work knowing it's a band aid.

2 hours ago, Chris09324 said:

Thanks. I should have mentioned I did have the engine cleaned when the German Autocentre were investigating the oil leak, at their request. This was what allowed them to identify general area from which the leak was coming from.

I am tempted as you suggest to get the new alternator belt fitted and attempt to get it where I need. It just seems people are reluctant to do the work knowing it's a band aid.

Hi get a new belt fitted and buy a can of brake cleaner check the belt every 50 miles and give it a quick spray that will keep it at bay, sounds like a front crank seal gone had that on mine and it is not an engine out job just the radiator and fan pack.

Steve.

Thanks Steve.

I took it to a local garage, he also suggested front crank. He was very reluctant to do any work as he didn't believe it would be a long term fix and he didn't want to be responsible when it breaks down again soon after.

He eventually suggested he would replace the belt on the assumption I am only trying to make the journey to Bristol, with the disclaimer he is not responsible when it goes wrong. He was very much putting me off spending any money it and if it's simply gonna be scrapped then just telling me to get on and do it.

At this stage, that feels like what I might do, sell in it's current state or scrap.