After reading about cam follower failures, I thought I would be pro-active and swap mine out. The job is relatively easy, I had it done in about 45 min. The pic is kinda crappy but you can see the pitting on the surface of the follower and that the black anti-friction coating is gone. It was still a long way from wearing all the way though but it was time for replacement. From what I could see the cam was still in good shape, didn't see any pitting. My car has 108000 kms and has been dealer serviced since new.

 

Did you have the job done at the dealer as well? what was the damage $$?

 

I did the job myself, took me about 45 min. If you have a 2006 it is a bit tougher as the return line to the fuel pump is rigid and needs to come off and the banjo bolt is a PITA. Part alone was $65, I would think the dealer would charge 1 - 1.5 hrs labour for this.

DIY writeup here.

Picasa Web Albums - BJ McGee - Audi A4 FSI C...

 

You're are going to need the harden cam shaft as well.

 

That was a most excellent pictorial. My car has just over 100k and a spotty record of maintenance. Should I hold off on this until I do more of the internals or would you recommend making this a priority?

 

If the follower wears through the intake cam needs to be replaced. Hold off if you are planning to upgrade the cams in the near future, otherwise do it ASAP.

 

I just ordered one of these and will be doing mine this weekend, car has 150K on it, almost timing belt time as well...

 

Thanks for posting up the info. Greatly appreciate helping other members with DIY guides. I know what it's like when you do a DIY guide and no one says thanks. Just check out the C5 A6 forum.

When the weather gets better I'll get around to doing mine.

 

Cam follower is covered by warranty for 192,000 kms, get it replaced by the dealer! My 2006 A4 had 196,000 when i discovered the cam follower damage, Audi Canada refused to have it replaced.
No one is informed about their advisories and notices, by mail or telephone. You are made aware when you are out of warranty..

 

personally i think you weren't that far from wear through or breakage... this is mine with around 100,000km on it.

and yes i change my oil frequently with the recommended castrol syntec 5w40 and i don't abuse my car any more than the next person....