RE: Gas fumes from my 94 S4, etc.

[Mastovsky David <mastovsky.d@mellon.com>]

Eric,
I have the same gas fume problem with my 93 S4, but I have discovered
what the problem is on mine.  The fuel line that runs from the fuel
filter to the fuel injector rail is the culprit.  This fuel line has a
short portion that is flexible stainless steel braided and mine is
leaking at the area where the flexible piece is crimped to the rigid
piece.  This is a very bad place for it to be leaking because it is just
above the exhaust manifold.  (insert  vision of a charbroiled S4)
Needless to say, I decided to stop driving the car until I fixed this
problem.  I went out and ordered the fuel line (approx. $70) and figured
that I would replace it as soon as it came in.  Well, when I received
the part looked at it and then took another look inside the engine bay,
I decided that maybe Audi should pay for this replacement.  This line
goes from the fuel filter, around the strut tower, down the fire wall on
the passenger side, across behind the power steering rack, and then up
to the fuel rail on the drivers side of the fire wall.  Basically its a
PITA to replace.
The shop foreman at a local dealer told me it was about and 8 - 10 hour
job to replace (I'm not surprised).  They are checking to see if Audi
will cover this since my car has only 42K miles and this is a safety
issue.  I'll let you all know what happens.
Hope this has helped shed some light.

Dave (MASTOVSKY.D@MELLON.COM)