2003 Audi A6 1.9tdi - Intercooler hose keeps splitting......

[mutsy88]

Hi PHers,

I've been running a leggy A6 estate for mountain biking and other shed duties which it has been dealing with brilliantly despite my consistent abuse! However, two months ago it suddenly started making more smoke than power due to a split in the intercooler hose. Sourcing a new one from Audi was going to set me back c£200 so I purchased a replacement off ebay for £25 instead.

Unfortunately the replacement has just split as well so I wanted to get some thoughts:

1. Does anyone know any issues that would be causing this hose to split

2. In the more likely scenario that the replacement part was of poor quality, does anyone have any recommendations for sourcing a new one - I have tried GSF and Eurocarparts but they either don't stock it or don't know when they will next get some. I could just buy another of ebay but my worry is I will have the same issue again in 2 months time and I would rather sort it properly.

Part number is 8E0145834P, and the car is well looked after, in good condition and unmodified.

Any thoughts most welcome!

Mutsy

[lost in espace]

I have the same car with 130k on it and its on the original pipes, maybe get a genuine used one off ebay?