2018 Audi A6 problems

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The Audi A6 is an executive car made by the German company Audi since 1994. Now in its fifth generation, the successor to the Audi 100 is manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany, and is available in saloon and estate configurations, the latter marketed by Audi as the Avant. Audi's internal numbering treats the A6 as a continuation of the Audi 100 lineage, with the initial A6 designated as a member of the C4-series, followed by the C5, C6, C7, and the C8. The related Audi A7 is essentially a Sportback (liftback) version of the C7-series and C8-series A6 but is marketed under its own separate identity and model designation.

All generations of the A6 have offered either front-wheel-drive or Torsen-based four-wheel-drive, marketed by Audi as their quattro system. The A6 has also been used as the basis for the company's Allroad models since 1999.

Both petrol and diesel versions of the A6 are offered. The wide range of engines available have power outputs ranging from 150 to 333 PS (110 to 245 kW). These are inline four-cylinder turbocharged engines and more powerful 3-litre units in a V6 configuration with a mechanical compressor.

2018 Audi A6

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Common 2018 Audi A6 problems

The Audi A6, particularly the 2018 model, has been reported to have a variety of common problems, most of which are related to electrical issues. Here are some of the specific problems that have been reported by owners of the Audi A6 2018:

  • Sat-Nav/Infotainment Problems: The same What Car? reliability survey found that 22% of Audi A6 owners reported issues with the sat-nav/infotainment system.
  • Non-Engine Electrical Problems: According to the What Car? reliability survey, 19% of Audi A6 owners reported issues with non-engine electrics. These problems can be caused by faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning control modules. Common electrical component issues in the A6 include non-responsive window switches, intermittent door lock malfunctions, or flickering dashboard lights.
  • Interior Trim Problems: Despite the old A6's reputation for having a great interior, there were some issues with rattling parcel shelves and buzzing from interior trims. These problems can be caused by loose fittings or faulty components.
  • Transmission Issues: Rough shifting, slipping gears, and delayed engagement problems have been reported in some newer Audi Q5 models, which share some components with the A6.

In summary, the Audi A6 2018 has been reported to have a range of electrical issues, including problems with the engine electrics, sat-nav/infotainment system, non-engine electrics, and interior trim. It is important to check that all the electrical equipment works as it should before purchasing a used A6, and to address any transmission issues quickly to avoid further damage to the car.

2018 Audi A6 engine

What is the most common problem with Audi A6?

The Audi A6 saloon has been blighted by a range of electrical issues: 44% had a fault, two-thirds concerning engine and non-engine electrical systems or the sat-nav/ infotainment. Although 83% could still be driven, 46% took more than a week to put right.

Is Audi A6 high maintenance?

Audis are expensive cars to maintain. According to RepairPal, the average annual Audi repair cost is $987. This is much higher than the average across all brands, which is $652.

Is an Audi A6 reliable?

The Audi A6 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $913 which means it has poor ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average, and major issues are less frequent than average, so major repairs are not common for the A6.

What year of Audi A6 is the most reliable?

As per the NHTSA, the 2009 Audi A6 received only 21 complaints and four recalls. Most of the complaints were about the Takata recalls, so it's not a huge deal as long as the airbags are replaced. For older Audi A6 models, 2009 is the most reliable Audi A6 year.

What is the most common problem with Audi A6?

The Audi A6 saloon has been blighted by a range of electrical issues: 44% had a fault, two-thirds concerning engine and non-engine electrical systems or the sat-nav/ infotainment. Although 83% could still be driven, 46% took more than a week to put right.

Is the Audi A6 a reliable car?

The Audi A6 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $913 which means it has poor ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average, and major issues are less frequent than average, so major repairs are not common for the A6.

Is the 2018 Audi reliable?

How Reliable Is the 2018 Audi A4? The 2018 Audi A4 has a slightly above-average predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power.

Is Audi A6 high maintenance?

Audis are expensive cars to maintain. According to RepairPal, the average annual Audi repair cost is $987. This is much higher than the average across all brands, which is $652.

2018 Audi A6 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Audi A6.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2018 Audi A6 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2018 Audi A6.

2019-01-16
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
  • Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Audi has notified owners, and dealers will replace the left and right fuel rail, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 24DP.
2018-06-04
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S6 and S7, 2012-2018 A7 and A6 Sedan, and 2014-2018 RS7 vehicles equipped with basic seats (with or without heating). Stress or wear of the body-sensing mat within the front passenger seat may cause the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) control module to malfunction.
  • Consequence: If the PODS module malfunctions, the front passenger air bag may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a PODS system repair kit, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 74D5.

Negative 2018 Audi A6 car reviews

  1. Braden Thompson 2024-10-09

    I wish I had known beforehand that the radio in this car turns on automatically every time you get in. Even if it was off when you last drove the car, it will come back on about twenty seconds later once the MMI is fully operational. You have to turn it off twice, which is unbelievably annoying. Both the dealer and corporate Audi have stated that this is how the car is designed to function. I am writing this review to warn others so they can make an informed decision. Unfortunately, this radio situation has completely soured my appreciation for the car. Additionally, it has had buzzes and rattles since nearly new, brakes that squeal loudly even after repeated trips to the service department, and the steering feel and feedback is very artificial. The voice activation is all but useless, and the automatic cruise control cuts out frequently for no apparent reason, such as bad weather conditions. Overall, I am very dissatisfied with this car.

  2. Jarrett Mueller 2024-06-05

    I also took a look at the 2019 Audi A6. I used to love the 2013 A6 before I switched to the 2016 Q5. However, I was disappointed to find out that the newest A6 doesn't have Apple play. The new A6 is similar to the one from 3 years ago, except that now you can only get a 3.0 gas burning racing engine with all-wheel drive. As a young retiree, I don't need 0 to 60 in 5 seconds or to waste fuel, even if it's inexpensive. My 2013 A6 FWD had all the zip I needed and got 32 mpg on the road. Unfortunately, the 2016 Q5 AWD lost 4 to 6 mpg. The 2019 A6 only offers a 3.0 engine with poor mpg, but racing performance. I wonder who the German market is for? In the end, I happily found the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid with unbelievable bells and whistles. I get 38 mpg on a 2.0-liter gas plus electric engines. I have Apple CarPlay and multiple safety, comfort features, all at $10,000 less MSRP than an Audi A6!

Positive 2018 Audi A6 car reviews

  1. Savion Bashirian 2025-03-29

    Congratulations on your new-to-you Audi A6! It's great to hear that you're enjoying your purchase and that the car was in perfect condition when you bought it. Overall, you seem to be very happy with your new luxury sports sedan. I understand that you have a couple of minor complaints, such as the interior compartment and storage space being a bit small and the inconvenience of having to connect your phone via USB cable when using Android Auto. However, these are only minor issues and do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the car. Thank you for sharing your positive experience and recommendation with others!

  2. Isaias Deckow 2025-03-20

    The rear view camera (360) could use some improvement as the low pixels make it difficult to see in low light. It's disappointing that such an important safety feature was not given more attention in a luxury auto.

  3. Eliseo Glover 2025-03-19

    I took a look at the 2016 BMW 5 series and the latest Mercedes E class (4 cylinder model). I decided against the new 5 series due to concerns about reliability in the first year of production, and the 6 cylinder E class was just too expensive. However, I absolutely loved the ride and handling of the A6. It strikes the perfect balance between sport and luxury, and it's the only German midsize car that offers REAR side airbags, as well as outstanding crash testing. The ride and handling are truly exceptional. While some formal car magazine reviews have stated that the steering is numb or light, I personally did not have that impression. The V6 engine provides ample power whenever you need it. I opted for a factory order Premium Plus with 19

  4. Frederik Ullrich 2025-03-16

    Expensive car but really fabulous to drive in. Looks classy with an understated prestige that grabs attention. In a recent trip to Vermont, it handled superbly up 4500 feet mountains during a snow blitz with 3-5 inches of the fluffy stuff on the ground with temps around 22F. It was the only car that was climbing up the mountains at night!!

  5. Lourdes Feest 2025-02-27

    This Audi has proven to be a reliable car, with everything still working and maintaining its original performance and comfort even after 40,000 miles. Although there have been some issues with oil consumption, it is still within specifications and the engine is an excellent performer. The quality of materials used is evident, as the car still looks fresh and shows very little wear. Overall, this Audi is a solid and dependable vehicle that is worth keeping for a long time.The car had some issues upon delivery, such as warped brake rotors, vacuum leak, and paint and rust problems on the roof's welded seam. The radio also had a problem of turning on by itself, which the dealer could not fix. Although the seats were adjustable, they were not very comfortable on long drives. However, the engine performance was excellent, and the car has been reliable. The brake feel was mushy and uncertain, but the ride and safety features have improved compared to the previous model. The OE tires (Goodyears) started making noise at about 20k miles and needed to be replaced at 36k. The car has an over-abundance of electronic features, which can be annoying.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2018 Audi A6 problems:

2018 Audi A6 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2018 Audi A6 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/audi/a6/2018/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2018 Audi A6? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

Audi A6 Reliability and Years To Avoid - AudiWorld Forums
Audi A6 Reliability and Years To Avoid - AudiWorld Forums
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-c8-platform-discussion-229/audi-a6-reliability-years-avoid-3060905/

Sep 6, 2023 ... The Audi A6 has generally been considered a reliable vehicle, but it's essential to recognize that maintenance and upkeep play a crucial role in ...

3.0 T reliability
3.0 T reliability
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/842968-3-0T-reliability

Jan 26, 2019 ... ... engine or drive train problems with a 3.0t car? ... 2012 Audi A6 3.0T Fully loaded sans B&O ... I just couldn't justify $55k for a 2017 A8 when I ...

I am a Audi Master Technician here to answer your questions! AMA ...
I am a Audi Master Technician here to answer your questions! AMA ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/Audi/comments/cjyiqr/i_am_a_audi_master_technician_here_to_answer_your/

Jul 30, 2019 ... Hi, I have an audi a6 quattro 2001 v6 2.4 petrol engine, I connected a trailer to it and now I have a problem my esp won't stop and I feel ...

Post Common issues of the C7 3.0T after 60k | How's yours holding ...
Post Common issues of the C7 3.0T after 60k | How's yours holding ...
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/789442-Common-issues-of-the-C7-3-0T-after-60k-How-s-yours-holding-up

Nov 12, 2017 ... How has the reliability of yours been? Last edited by BlazinB5; 08-11-2018 at 02:07 AM. 2001 Audi Allroad 2.7T, 2000 Audi A6 4.2 2003 Audi ...

Other years of Audi A6

audi a6 2019 photo
A6 2019
Audi

101

5

22

  • 5
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  • 3
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  • 1
audi a6 2020 photo
A6 2020
Audi

18

8

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
audi a6 2021 photo
A6 2021
Audi

7

9

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
audi a6 1994 photo
A6 1994
Audi

2

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
audi a6 1995 photo
A6 1995
Audi

18

2

4

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
audi a6 1996 photo
A6 1996
Audi

54

2

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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