How Much Is an Intake Manifold for an Audi A4?

An intake manifold for an Audi A4 typically costs between $250 and $900 for the part alone, with total replacement costs (parts plus labor) usually landing between $600 and $1,600 in the United States as of late 2024. The price varies widely depending on model year, engine type, whether you choose OEM or aftermarket, and where the work is performed. Below is a detailed breakdown of what affects the price and what Audi A4 owners should know before replacing this component.

Why Intake Manifold Prices Vary So Widely

The cost of an intake manifold for an Audi A4 is not a single fixed number, because Audi has produced multiple generations of the A4 with different engines, materials, and technologies. Factors such as engine displacement, forced induction, variable intake flaps, and integrated sensors can all influence the final price of the part and the labor required to replace it.

Key Cost Drivers

Several core elements determine how much you will pay for an Audi A4 intake manifold. Understanding these can help you interpret quotes from parts suppliers and repair shops more confidently.

• Model year and generation: B7 (approx. 2005–2008), B8 (2009–2016), and B9 (2017–present) use different manifold designs and part numbers, each with its own pricing.
• Engine type: 1.8T, 2.0 TFSI/TFSI, 3.0 TDI, and 3.2 FSI/3.0 TFSI V6 engines all use distinct manifolds with different complexity and cost.
• OEM vs. aftermarket: Genuine Audi (OEM) parts are usually at the top end of the price range; reputable aftermarket parts can reduce costs but may have trade-offs in longevity or fitment.
• Additional integrated components: Some manifolds include integrated actuators, sensors, swirl or tumble flaps, and/or ports for high-pressure fuel systems that increase part cost.
• Supply chain and regional pricing: Prices differ between North America, Europe, and other markets depending on availability, taxes, and shipping.

Taken together, these factors create the wide cost range owners encounter when shopping for replacement intake manifolds or receiving repair quotes from garages or dealers.

Typical Price Ranges by Engine and Generation

While exact pricing depends on your specific VIN and location, it is possible to outline realistic price bands for common Audi A4 variants currently on the road. These figures reflect late-2024 online parts catalog and dealer pricing in the U.S. and should be treated as ballparks rather than fixed quotes.

4-Cylinder Petrol Engines (1.8T, 2.0 TFSI/TFSI)

Four‑cylinder turbo engines are the most common in the A4 lineup and tend to have more modestly priced manifolds, though modern TFSI designs can still be expensive due to complexity.

• B7 A4 (approx. 2005–2008, 2.0T FSI):
  

  • Aftermarket intake manifold: around $250–$450
  • OEM Audi manifold: roughly $450–$700

• B8 A4 (2009–2016, 2.0 TFSI: CAEB, CPMA, etc.):
  

  • Aftermarket: typically $300–$550
  • OEM: often in the $500–$800 range

• B9 A4 (2017–present, 2.0 TFSI/TFSI evo):
  

  • Aftermarket (limited selection): around $350–$650
  • OEM dealer pricing: commonly $600–$900 or more

In general, the newer the A4 and the more advanced its emissions and fuel systems, the closer intake manifold pricing will be to the upper end of these ranges, especially if only OEM parts are available or recommended.

V6 Petrol and TDI Diesel Engines

V6 engines—both petrol and diesel—often use more complex intake systems, sometimes with dual runners, swirl flaps, and electric actuators, which drive costs up compared with 4‑cylinder units.

• 3.2 FSI petrol (older B7/B8 A4s):
  

  • Aftermarket (where available): typically $450–$700
  • OEM Audi: often $700–$1,000+

• 3.0 TDI and related V6 diesels (primarily Europe and some other regions):
  

  • Aftermarket: around €350–€650 (roughly $375–$700) per manifold
  • OEM: commonly €600–€1,000+ (roughly $650–$1,100+)

• Newer V6 turbo petrol (e.g., 3.0 TFSI variants shared with performance models):
  

  • Mostly OEM at this stage: typically $800–$1,200+ for the manifold alone

For V6 engines in particular, cost can escalate quickly if both banks (or associated actuators and flap mechanisms) need replacement, making a detailed diagnostic and precise part number confirmation crucial before ordering.

Total Installed Cost: Parts Plus Labor

Beyond the price of the manifold itself, owners must factor in labor, shop fees, and any additional parts recommended during replacement. The complexity of modern Audi engines can significantly influence workshop time.

Typical Labor Time and Rates

Labor charges for intake manifold replacement vary depending on engine layout and local labor rates, but there are consistent patterns across Audi A4 generations that shape the final bill.

• Labor time: Commonly 2.5 to 5.0 hours for 4‑cyl A4s, and 4.0 to 7.0 hours for V6 engines, depending on access and whether additional components must be removed.
• Labor rates:
  

  • Independent European specialty shops: typically $110–$180 per hour in major U.S. metro areas.
  • Franchised Audi dealers: often $160–$250 per hour or more.

• Estimated labor cost:
  

  • 4‑cylinder A4: roughly $300–$900 in labor.
  • V6 A4: often $500–$1,200 in labor, especially if intake flaps or EGR-related parts add time.

These labor estimates are approximate but align with typical shop quoting practices in 2024, meaning total installed cost can easily double the price of the intake manifold itself.

Additional Parts Commonly Replaced

Replacing an intake manifold often triggers a “while we’re in there” list of ancillary items. Skipping these can save money immediately but may increase the risk of leaks or repeat labor later.

• Gaskets and seals: Intake manifold gasket set, throttle body gasket, and sometimes injector seals are frequently replaced and usually cost $30–$120 in total.
• Intake flap actuators or position sensors: If not integrated into the new manifold, separate actuators can add $80–$250 each.
• PCV/breather components: Positive crankcase ventilation hoses and valves, which often become brittle, can add another $50–$200.
• Carbon cleaning (direct-injection engines): Many shops recommend intake valve walnut blasting during manifold removal on TFSI engines, which can cost $300–$600 but helps restore performance.

While these extras increase the invoice, they can also reduce the likelihood of future drivability issues and repeated labor charges for related components.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Which Is Better Value?

Choosing between genuine Audi parts and aftermarket alternatives is one of the biggest levers owners can pull to manage the cost of an intake manifold replacement, but the decision involves more than just sticker price.

Genuine Audi (OEM) Manifolds

OEM manifolds are produced to the exact specifications of the original factory component and are generally the default recommendation from dealers and many independent shops.

• Pros:
  

  • Best fit and compatibility with existing sensors and actuators.
  • Backed by Audi or the OEM supplier’s warranty.
  • Lower risk of check-engine lights or adaptation issues on modern engines.

• Cons:
  

  • Often 20–50% more expensive than quality aftermarket options.
  • Limited flexibility for performance upgrades or design improvements.

For newer A4s and engines with complex variable intake systems, OEM is often the safest route, especially if the vehicle is still under warranty or if reliability is the top priority.

Aftermarket and Performance Options

Aftermarket intake manifolds range from OE-style replacements to performance‑oriented designs aimed at tuning enthusiasts. Quality can vary, making brand reputation important.

• Pros:
  

  • Potential cost savings of $100–$300 versus OEM.
  • Availability of upgraded materials or designs targeting known failure points.
  • Performance versions may improve airflow for tuned engines.

• Cons:
  

  • Possible issues with sensor mounting, vacuum ports, or emissions controls if design deviates from OEM.
  • Warranty claims can be more complicated, especially if installed on a modified car.
  • Some cheap options may have poorer casting quality or sealing surfaces.

For high-mileage older A4s, a reputable aftermarket manifold can be a cost‑effective option, but owners should check reviews, confirm compatibility with their exact engine code, and discuss the choice with their mechanic.

How to Get an Accurate Price for Your Specific Audi A4

Because of the variability between model years and engine codes, the most reliable way to know what an intake manifold will cost for your particular A4 is to gather a few key details, then request targeted quotes.

Information You Need Before Pricing Parts

Accurate pricing starts with correctly identifying your car’s specifications. This helps avoid ordering the wrong part, which is a common and expensive mistake with European models.

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): The 17‑character code uniquely identifies your vehicle; parts counters and dealers can pull exact part numbers from it.
• Model year and generation: Knowing whether your car is a B7, B8, or B9 (or corresponding years) narrows down the options.
• Engine code: Codes like CAEB, CPMA, or CNCD are used heavily by Audi parts catalogs; they’re often found on a sticker in the trunk or service book.
• Fuel type and displacement: Petrol vs. diesel, 2.0 vs. 3.0, etc., all correlate with specific manifold designs.

Having this information ready when you contact parts suppliers or workshops streamlines the process and significantly reduces the risk of incompatible components.

Where to Check Current Prices

Parts pricing can change with supply, demand, and promotions, so it is useful to compare multiple sources before committing to a purchase or repair.

• Audi dealerships: Provide official OEM parts and up‑to‑date part supersessions, but usually at the highest price.
• Online OEM resellers: Many authorized or specialist sites discount genuine Audi parts below walk‑in dealer pricing.
• Independent European parts stores: Both brick‑and‑mortar and online suppliers offer OEM and aftermarket options, often with knowledgeable staff.
• Mechanic or specialist quotes: Some shops can secure trade pricing on parts, which may make their supplied OEM manifold cheaper than a retail purchase.

Collecting a few quotes using your VIN and engine code will typically reveal a clear average price range for your specific A4, clarifying whether a given estimate is high, low, or typical for your market.

Is It Worth Replacing the Intake Manifold on an Older A4?

When the cost of repair approaches a significant fraction of the car’s resale value, owners naturally question whether it makes financial sense to proceed. With intake manifold jobs sometimes exceeding $1,000, this is a realistic concern for older Audi A4s.

Weighing Repair Costs Against Vehicle Value

To make a rational decision, it helps to compare the expense of an intake manifold replacement to the overall condition and expected lifespan of the car, not just its book value.

• Vehicle age and mileage: On high‑mileage B7/B8 models, a $900–$1,400 repair may still be justified if the engine and transmission are otherwise healthy.
• Other known or pending repairs: If the car also needs timing work, suspension, or major transmission service, total investment may outweigh the vehicle’s worth.
• Ownership plans: Owners intending to keep the car several more years may view the repair as preventative maintenance rather than sunk cost.
• DIY capability: Skilled DIYers can dramatically reduce labor costs, making the repair far more economical.

Ultimately, the decision is less about a firm dollar threshold and more about how the intake manifold cost fits into the broader maintenance picture for that specific A4.

Summary

An intake manifold for an Audi A4 generally costs $250–$900 for the part alone, with total installed costs usually between $600 and $1,600 in late 2024, depending heavily on model year, engine type, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. Four‑cylinder petrol engines tend toward the lower to mid end of the range, while V6 petrol and diesel variants can push toward or above the upper end.

Labor time commonly ranges from 2.5 to 5 hours for 4‑cylinder engines and 4 to 7 hours for V6s, at shop rates that vary widely between independent specialists and Audi dealers. Additional costs may arise from gaskets, actuators, PCV components, and optional intake‑valve carbon cleaning on direct‑injection engines. To obtain an accurate figure for your car, gather your VIN, model year, and engine code, then compare quotes from dealerships, independent parts suppliers, and trusted workshops. This approach will give you the most current and realistic price for an intake manifold replacement on your specific Audi A4.