thanks for the replies - re the sensor i think its the one in the head, but will check. As for trying it myself it looks pretty straight forward so I'm up for having a bash at it - only problem is the need to clear the faults with vagcom - I don't have it myself.

May consider just replacing the plugs anyway - if I still have the problem then its must be the coils but to check I can swap them as suggested and if it misfires then it would confirm and I can just replace? I know changing all the plugs is unnecessary but its got to be better than paying the dealer to do what seems like an easy job?

Bad luck really and those prices are outrageous £400 for transfer box seal?? It costs £10 for seal and £240 at Audi dealer

And yes for misfires swap coils and plugs around to see if fault follows them, failing that ignition amplifiers .

For the temp sensors- there are 2 one on each head, the one in the radiaor is just a simple thermo switch.

No need to clear faults. If the fault is not detected in next time it will run fine as without fault just store the fault in memory. If fault does not show up again in 30 or 40 times the ignition is turned it will be deleted itself.

Great thanks for this - I'm going to give it a go this weekend!

in the mean time....welcome to the 6 cyl a8 owners area......soon as you're an 8 cyl again however we'll have to ask you to leave.

rofl

Regarding the transfer box oil seal, luckily the only problem I've had in 18 months of S8 ownership.....

Had mine done a couple of months ago at the main dealers, 2 seals required, and a couple of exhaust clamps....... total price £150 - thanks Neyland Audi!

brilliant - I assume they main difference is that the 8 cyl members know the names, childrens names and favourite holiday locations of the staff at the local petrol station........? :ROFL:

Although apparently running on 6 cyl has actually made the already cataclysmic fuel consumption even worse.........I'm actually down to 11.9. However, for some strange reason (possibly due to the initial start of this thread......i.e the headaches) I have stopped even caring and in total disregard for the planet and my bank balance have started to see how just low I can get it to..........expensive yes, but fun trying and I assume exactly why I have 'S' mode and tiptronic options :D

Just want those 2 cyl back so I can experience the full effects of the glorious V8 lump and that adrenalin rush as I try to then stop it before heading into a hedge......I think I know exactly what audi was thinking here,...."vee vill put zee fun back in da automobile, those crazy britishers vill like this very much!"........so 360bhp, almost 2 ton and no brakes.........oh how I laugh (passengers are somewhat less appreciative for some reason?):ROFL:

Rofl +++

Have you considered lead, or depleted uranium boots......

Double function here, ensure your mpg stays in single figures, whilst improving braking by 'crowbar effect'

Don't need them with my size feet, but maybe Conan can help with some diver's boots :-)