EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
5 December 2025 Table of Contents
The automatic transmission of the Audi S6, especially in models from 2007 onwards, exhibits various common faults, which manifest themselves in jerky gear changes, delays when changing gear or complete failure of the shift function. These weak points occur particularly at higher mileages and can lead to costly repairs. The transmission does not start properly or does not shift properly between gears, which significantly impairs the reliability of the vehicle. Typical symptoms include shift shocks, extended shift times and, in severe cases, complete failure of the automatic function. The service life of the automatic transmission is negatively affected by aggressive driving, irregular maintenance and high thermal loads.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the transmission system. The complex Audi S6 automatic transmissions require an oil change with special ATF oil every 60,000-80,000 kilometres and regular diagnostics for early detection of problems. At the first sign of shifting problems, a transmission analysis should be carried out, which includes fault code readout, pressure test and oil quality check. Preventive measures such as gentle starting, avoiding kick-down manoeuvres and regular flushing can significantly extend the service life.
Article number: 600 0017 00
£332.50price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
OPEL GM Engine oil
5W-30, 5l, Synthetic Oil
Article number: 19 42 003
£37.99
£7.60
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 701522
£63.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-17%
Article number: 21502
compared to
RRP
£316.99
£260.00£520.00 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
The 4.0 TFSI engine of the Audi S6 has specific weak points, which mainly manifest themselves in the turbochargers, direct injection and valve controls. These common faults can occur after just 60,000 kilometres and include loss of power, increased oil consumption and uneven engine running. The system does not function optimally if the turbochargers wear out or the direct injection high-pressure pump is faulty. Typical symptoms are reduced acceleration, black smoke from the exhaust and increased operating temperatures. Reliability is challenged by the complex technology with two turbochargers and direct fuel injection, which makes regular maintenance essential.
Systematic inspection is fundamental to maintaining engine performance. The demanding Audi S6 4.0 TFSI units require oil changes every 15,000 km with high-quality 5W-30 engine oil and regular checks of the turbocharger oil supply. Diagnostic measures include compression tests, turbocharger pressure tests and injector nozzle cleaning. The use of premium fuel and additives for system cleaning can prevent deposits and significantly extend the service life of sensitive components.
The 4.2 V8 engine of the Audi S6 develops characteristic problems that mainly affect the timing chain, valve timing and oil supply. These weak points typically occur between 100,000-150,000 kilometres and are manifested by rattling noises during cold starts, rough idling and loss of power. The system will not function properly if the timing chain is stretched or the chain tensioners fail. Common faults also include problems with the camshaft phasers and valve cover gaskets. Complaints range from audible noises to engine damage due to valve-piston contact. The service life is negatively affected by irregular maintenance and the use of inferior oils.
A professional inspection is essential for early detection of timing chain problems. The precision Audi S6 4.2 V8 engines require oil changes every 10,000 km with specially approved 5W-40 oil and regular visual inspections of the timing chain. Diagnostic procedures include endoscope examinations, camshaft timing checks and chain tension measurements. At the first sign of chain noise, a workshop should be visited immediately, as delays can lead to costly engine damage.
-67%
Article number: 48810
compared to
RRP
£9.16
£2.99
Price per item
£11.96 / Price per 4 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 61-104
More
£12.49
£2.50
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Water pump and timing belt kit
Number of Teeth: 141 L: 1343 mm, Width: 30 mm
Article number: 1 987 946 476
£124.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: GS55545M4
£54.49
£10.90
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
FRENKIT Repair Kit, brake caliper
Front Axle, Ø: 34 mm , Kit+Piston
Article number: 234911
£47.99£95.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
The 3.0 TDI engine in the Audi S6 has specific problems that mainly affect the exhaust gas recirculation system, the particulate filters and the high-pressure injection system. These frequent faults manifest themselves particularly on short journeys and can occur after just 80,000 kilometres. The system does not start properly or runs erratically if the EGR cooler is clogged or the particulate filter is overloaded. Typical symptoms include emergency running programme activation, increased fuel consumption and reduced engine performance. The breakdowns are often caused by incomplete regeneration cycles of the diesel particulate filter or coking of the intake valves. Reliability is challenged by modern exhaust aftertreatment and complex electronics, which requires regular maintenance.
Professional maintenance is crucial for the functionality of the diesel engine. The complex Audi S6 3.0 TDI systems require special diesel oil changes every 20,000 km and regular particulate filter regeneration through motorway driving. Diagnostic measures include EGR valve cleaning, particulate filter pressure measurements and fuel injector tests. The use of high-quality diesel fuel and regular long-distance driving can prevent deposits and significantly extend the service life of the exhaust gas aftertreatment systems.
The legendary 5.2 V10 engine of the Audi S6 has specific weak points, which mainly manifest themselves in the complex valve control, the ignition coils and the fuel supply. These common faults can occur after just 70,000 kilometres and include misfiring, uneven engine running and increased fuel consumption. The system does not function optimally if individual ignition coils fail or the fuel pump weakens. Typical complaints are engine vibrations, loss of power and increased exhaust emissions. The faults are often caused by the high thermal loads of the high-performance engine and the complex electronics with ten cylinders. The service life is negatively affected by aggressive driving and irregular maintenance, although reliability is very high with proper care.
Systematic inspection is fundamental to maintaining V10 performance. The demanding Audi S6 5.2 V10 units require oil changes every 10,000 km with high quality 5W-40 engine oil and regular checks of all ten ignition coils. Diagnostic procedures include compression tests of all cylinders, fuel pressure measurements and ignition coil resistance tests. The use of premium fuel and regular engine flushing can prevent deposits and maintain the exceptional performance of the V10 engine for many years.
Based on the experiences of Audi S6 owners, the following additional problems occur:
| Strengths | Weak points |
|---|---|
| Exceptional engine performance | High maintenance costs |
| High-quality workmanship | Complex electronics |
| Sporty driving behaviour | Automatic transmission problems |
| Luxurious equipment | Turbocharger wear |
| Quattro all-wheel drive | Air suspension defects |
| High resale value | Fuel consumption |
| Modern safety systems | Spare parts costs |
The Audi S6 proves to be an exceptional high-performance vehicle, but one that requires intensive maintenance and care. Most problems can be avoided through preventive measures and timely intervention. The complex engines and automatic gearbox in particular require regular specialised checks to ensure its impressive performance and reliability over the long term.
DELPHI Air conditioning compressor
6SE14, PAG 46, with PAG compressor oil
VAG Engine oil
0W-30, 1l
BREMBO Brake Set, drum brakes
AUTOFREN SEINSA Repair Kit, brake caliper
Front Axle, Ø: 54 mm
MAPCO Link Set, wheel suspension
Rear Axle both sides, Upper, Lower, with lock screw set, with coupling rod
SWAG Automatic transmission fluid
ATF III, 1l
VAG Engine oil
5W-40, 5l
BOSCH Repair Kit, brake caliper
without piston
BOSCH Auxiliary water pump
12V
