Plastic bits in the oil can only come from a few select places. Based on the engine making noise only after it has been warmed up, I would initially suspect Cam Chain Tensioner. Before opening anything up, you could VAG the chain tensioner to see if it's operating within limits. This is not a be-all and end-all test but if the tensioner is found to be operating outside limits then start by pulling the valve cover and servicing the tensioner as it's possible the plastic guide is damaged. If this is not the issue then I also agree with Cheeba regarding pulling the lower oil pan and inspecting for identifiable debris.

 

Could it be something as simple as my problem with the Crankcase Breather/Bleeder Valve Assembly being shot, and the oil bypassing or rerouting on idle into the intake etc. Can you remove your oil filler cap when it is idling or do you get a sucking sound when you remove your dipstick at idle?

 

Hey Cheeba,
Question on dropping the oil pan.
Can it be done without dropping the sub frame?
I was told it could not.

 

You can get the pan out by just dropping the subframe a little, without having to remove everything attached to it. You might have to raise the engine up an inch or two bit with a jack or crane, though. You can also pull the front end off to avoid touching the subframe, but I've never tried it that way.

 

Appreciate the comeback info!
Thxs!

 

Allright - just an update.

I brought it to a different mechanic. He ran an oil pressure test and he is getting about 30psi when it's cold.

Now we're at the point of wether we change the pump, pull the pan and see what's what. He is not holding out much promise for the engine.

 

Allright, here is the final summary of what happened with my car. My old mechanic immediately went with blown engine and started shopping for engines. He then consulted a local audi dealership (in another town) and they too wanted to change the engine. Finally found a volks/audi guy that knows the 1.8 and I told him what Cheeba had said, so he did exactly that. Oil pressure was low. Changed the oil pump.
Oil pan was full of sludge...cleaned that up
Oil pickup tube was plugged....cleaned that up

The wrong oil and wrong filter were being used also. Fixed that issue.

$840 was the final bill.

Have had the car back for 2 weeks and runs great. Very responsive, no issues at all.

 

Happy to hear you got it sorted and didn't gave to buy a new engine!