Going for a Used Audi A6? Here's What You Should Know Grade A Recommendation from TÜV! 🏆
Recommendable Automobile: The Audi A6 That Delivers Satisfaction
The Audi A6, a popular choice for company cars, shines in TÜV's main inspection with minimal weaknesses. As a luxury class contender, it impresses with top-notch driving dynamics, sound insulation, equipment, and engine options, earning it the "auto recommendation" seal from "Auto Bild TÜV Report 2025".
Audi A6 - A Quick Look Back
Over the years, the Audi A6 has undergone several updates, with the fourth generation arriving in 2011 and the fifth in 2018. The models received facelifts in 2014 and 2023, respectively, while the fifth generation remained available as new until 2025.
Body and Variants
The A6 is predominantly offered as a five-door combi, making up the majority of the used car market. Additionally, you'll find four-door sedans, less common coupes (labeled A7), Allroad editions with increased ground clearance and off-road styling, and sporty S6 and RS6 versions.
Dimensions
- C7: Length: 4.92-4.98m, Width: 1.87-1.94m, Height: 1.44-1.47m; Boot volume: 530-995 liters (sedan) and 565-1680 liters (combi)
- C8: Length: 4.93-5.00m, Width: 1.89-1.95m, Height: 1.46-1.47m; Boot volume: 530-995 liters (sedan) and 405-1535 liters (combi)
What to Watch Out For
Though the A6 generally stands strong, fifth-generation models come with some common issues:
- Axle Suspensions, Springs, and Dampers: These components can cause trouble in cars registered from the fifth HU onwards.
- Low Beam Misalignment: Age can cause misalignment of the low beam.
- Exhaust System Defects: The exhaust system is disproportionately often defective starting from the third HU.
- Oil Loss: Noticeable oil loss from the engine and transmission is observed at the first check in the fifth generation.
Reliability
Despite occasional issues, the Audi A6 boasts "generally good to very good reliability" according to ADAC. Just be aware of potential problems with automatic transmissions and generators (2018 to 2020).
Engine Options
- Fourth Generation: Gasoline (132 kW/180 PS to 445 kW/605 PS) and Diesel (110 kW/136 PS to 240 kW/326 PS); Hybrid (180 kW/245 PS)
- Fifth Generation: Gasoline (180 kW/245 PS to 463 kW/630 PS) and Diesel (120 kW/163 PS to 257 kW/349 PS); Plug-in Hybrid (220 kW/299 PS and 270 kW/367 PS)
Used Car Market Prices
- Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TDI (6/2014): 100 kW/136 PS (4-cylinder), 199,000 km, €10,406
- Audi A6 45 3.0 TDI quattro basic (6/2019): 170 kW/231 PS (6-cylinder), 120,000 km, €27,204
- Audi A6 Avant 2.8 FSI quattro (6/2014): 150 kW/204 PS (6-cylinder), 166,000 km, €12,357
A thorough check of the transmission system, electronic stability and hybrid components, and comfort features like seat heating and liftgate operation is essential when considering a used fifth-generation Audi A6. Remember to pay close attention to engine warning lights, unusual noises, or software glitches, and a full diagnostic scan will help identify common problem areas specific to the Audi A6 C8 generation.
Now you're equipped with insider tips, make a savvy buying decision, and enjoy a ride in your new Audi A6! 🚗👍💨
Enrichment Data:When buying a used fifth-generation Audi A6 (model code C8, introduced around 2018), there are several common issues to watch out for, particularly relating to the drivetrain, electronics, and comfort features. These issues reflect typical problem areas reported by owners and specialists:
1. Transmission Problems- Transmission slipping or hesitation and unusual noises have been reported[6], including issues specifically with the DSG (dual-clutch) transmission solenoids which can cause failure to engage gears or stuttering[6]- Repair costs can be significant, around $600 to $800 depending on the exact problem[6]
2. Faulty PSM (Porsche Stability Management) System- Warning lights on the dashboard and abnormal ABS behavior are symptoms to check for[7]. This system failure occurs in about 15% of cases[7] and can cost around $1200 to fix[7]
3. Electrical Issues- Hybrid system electrical faults are common if you are considering a plug-in hybrid variant like the 50 TFSIe. These can manifest as warning lights and reduced engine power[7]- Other electrical problems include failure of adaptive cruise control systems and LED headlights (such as dimming or water leaks into the headlight assembly)[7]
4. Comfort and Convenience Features- Rear window liftgate motors may fail, causing trouble opening or closing the trunk (about 8% occurrence)[7]- Seat heating and cooling systems can malfunction, sometimes making unusual noises or failing to operate[7]
5. Engine-Related Issues (Especially 3.0 TFSI Engines)- Though generally reliable when properly maintained, some 3.0 TFSI engines have exhibited timing chain tensioner failures, higher oil consumption, catalytic converter failures, and carbon deposits on intake valves, especially if low-quality fuel is used or if aggressive engine tuning has been applied[8][9]- Preventive maintenance like using high-quality fuel and regular intake cleaning helps with longevity[9]
6. Software and Multimedia Interface Problems- Some owners report occasional freezing or blocking of the multimedia interface system, requiring manual reset (e.g., pressing and holding a button for 10 seconds)[10]
Additional Notes- Earlier Audi A6 generations (such as C5) have other issues like faulty sensors (e.g., mass airflow, oxygen sensors), variable geometry turbo problems, and transmission slippage[11], but these are less relevant for the fifth generation model.- Watch for general signs of wear and tear typical for luxury vehicles, including suspension and brake performance, as these can be costly to repair.
SummaryWhen buying a used fifth-generation Audi A6, thoroughly check the transmission system, electronic stability and hybrid components (if applicable), and comfort features like seat heating and liftgate operation. Pay close attention to any engine warning lights, unusual noises, or software glitches. A full diagnostic scan and review of service history focusing on these areas is recommended to avoid costly repairs.
This approach will help ensure you identify common problem areas specific to the Audi A6 C8 generation and make a more informed purchase decision.
- The Audi A6, a choice common in the company cars industry, boasts a wealth of characteristics that make it an attractive contender in the luxury class, including top-notch driving dynamics, sound insulation, equipment, and engine options.
- When it comes to vehicles of heading 8702 such as the Audi A6, the fifth generation models in particular have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of, particularly related to the drivetrain, electronics, and comfort features.
- Though the A6 generally stands strong, fifth-generation models come with some common issues, such as problems with axle suspensions, springs, dampers, low beam misalignment, exhaust system defects, and oil loss.
- In the used car market, the fifth-generation Audi A6 models have specific rates for their prices, with varying costs depending on the engine options and the car's overall condition.
- When considering a used Audi A6, it's essential to inspect every facet of the vehicle, including the transmission system, electronic stability and hybrid components, and comfort features like seat heating and liftgate operation.
- The industry of finance plays a crucial role in the transportation and acquisition of dream cars like the Audi A6, influencing factors such as car values, loan rates, and overall affordability within the lifestyle of an automotive enthusiast.