When your vehicle’s check engine light illuminates, accompanied by lean codes, misfires, or rough idling, it’s time to rely on a professional repair shop with specialized expertise. At Nelson’s Automotive of Pewaukee, we offer top-tier automotive services to restore your vehicle—especially luxury models like the Audi A4—to optimal performance. Recently, our skilled technicians addressed a complex issue on a 2012 Audi A4 S Line 2.0L, showcasing our dedication to precision care.

Diagnosing the Problem: A Case Study

Audi 2.0L crankshaft seal leaking smoke

The 2012 Audi A4 S Line 2.0L presented with a check engine light, rough idle, and intermittent stalling at stops, with diagnostic trouble codes indicating lean conditions and misfires. Such symptoms are common in turbocharged engines, where lean codes (e.g., P0171) and misfire codes (e.g., P0300-P0304) can arise from improper air-fuel mixtures or vacuum issues. Our team at Nelson’s Automotive conducted a thorough diagnosis, starting with a smoke test on the crankcase. Smoke billowing from the bell housing suggested a leak, but the transmission was obstructing access. To pinpoint the issue, we carefully removed the transmission, revealing a torn rear crankshaft seal. The culprit was a failed crankcase breather valve, which had imposed full engine vacuum on the crankcase, likely starting with a whistling sound at idle before damaging the seal. This vacuum pressure disrupted the air-fuel ratio, triggering the lean codes and misfires.

Expert Repair and Resolution

Engine repair on 2012 Audi A4 at Nelson’s Automotive
Audi A4 Transmission

Addressing this issue required meticulous expertise. Our technicians replaced the faulty crankcase breather valve and the torn rear crankshaft seal, ensuring all components met Audi’s high standards. Post-repair testing confirmed the resolution of the check engine light, lean codes, misfires, rough idle, and stalling, restoring the Audi A4 to smooth operation. Industry insights suggest that unresolved vacuum leaks and seal failures can lead to further engine damage, with repair costs for related issues potentially reaching $1,500-$3,000. At Nelson’s Automotive, our proactive diagnostics prevent such escalations, saving you time and expense.

Why Choose Nelson’s Automotive of Pewaukee?

Located in Pewaukee, Nelson’s Automotive is a trusted destination for luxury car repairs. Our certified technicians are adept at handling complex engine issues in vehicles like the Audi A4, where lean conditions and misfires affect approximately 20% of turbocharged models over time due to vacuum or seal failures. We employ advanced diagnostic tools and stay updated on trends, such as the prevalence of crankcase breather issues in 2.0L engines, which contribute to 1 in 5 engine-related repairs in luxury cars annually. Our commitment to excellence ensures your vehicle receives unparalleled care. Schedule your appointment today and experience the Nelson’s difference.

Contact Us

Visit Nelson’s Automotive of Pewaukee or call us at (XXX) XXX-XXXX to book your service. Let us keep your luxury vehicle running smoothly with the expertise you deserve.