The Problem

This Audi A6 came into us with a noticeable squeaking noise when starting from cold. The customer mentioned it was worse first thing in the morning and eased slightly as the engine warmed up, a common sign that something in the belt system isn’t quite right.

Our Diagnosis

After a full inspection, we traced the noise back to the auxiliary belt tensioner unit. This component keeps the belt running at the correct tension, and when it starts to wear out, it can cause that high-pitched squeak you hear on start-up.

On this particular model, access isn’t straightforward. Due to the layout of the engine bay, we needed to remove the front section of the vehicle to properly reach and inspect the belt system. Taking the time to do this correctly ensures we don’t miss anything and can fix the issue properly first time.

The Fix

We replaced the faulty auxiliary belt tensioner with a new unit and reassembled everything carefully. Once completed, we tested the vehicle from cold again – no more squeak, and everything running smoothly as it should.

Another job done right, and one happy Audi back on the road.

The Problem

An Audi A4 came into our Manchester workshop with several warning lights showing on the dashboard and noticeably reduced engine power. The driver explained that the car felt restricted when accelerating and wasn’t performing as it normally would. When warning lights appear alongside a loss of power, it’s often a sign that the engine management system has detected a fault and placed the car into a protective mode.

Our Diagnosis

We started by carrying out a full diagnostic scan to see what fault codes the car was reporting. The scan identified an open circuit fault relating to the fuel pressure regulator valve.

When we opened the bonnet to inspect the area more closely, we immediately noticed a strong smell of rat urine. After examining the wiring around the valve, the cause became clear — the wiring loom had been nibbled by rodents, leaving the circuit broken.

Unfortunately, this type of damage is becoming increasingly common, particularly for vehicles parked overnight in city centre areas, where rats can sometimes get into the engine bay and chew through wiring.

The Fix

To resolve the issue, we repaired the damaged wiring to the fuel pressure regulator valve and restored the electrical connection.

Once the repair was completed, we cleared the fault codes and re-tested the vehicle.
The warning lights disappeared and the engine returned to normal performance, confirming the problem had been successfully fixed.

It’s a good reminder that unexplained warning lights can sometimes have unusual causes — but with the right diagnostic tools and experience, they can usually be traced and resolved quickly.

The Problem With The A5

This Audi A5 came into the workshop with two worries: a persistent squeaking noise from the engine bay and a clutch that didn’t feel right. The owner was concerned the noise might be something serious – and they were right to get it checked sooner rather than later.

The Duffy Diagnosis

After inspecting the car, we traced the squeak back to the timing belt. Left alone, this can lead to much bigger (and more expensive) engine problems. We also confirmed the clutch was worn and needed replacing, along with the dual mass flywheel – a common issue on cars of this type as the miles add up.

On this model, the layout of the engine and gearbox makes access tight. Rather than struggle and risk cutting corners, we chose the proper method: dropping the entire powertrain out of the vehicle. It’s a bigger job, but it’s the safest and most accurate way to do this repair properly.

The Fix

We replaced the timing belt, fitted a full new clutch kit and installed a new dual mass flywheel. Everything was reassembled, tested, and road-checked.

The result? No more squeaks, smooth gear changes, and a car that now drives beautifully again – just as an Audi should.