2018 Audi A6 problems

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.
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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.
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.
- 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.
- 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
Positive 2018 Audi A6 car reviews
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I recently purchased this car after owning a 2014 A6, 4cyl. Premium plus. I must say, this car is in a league of its own compared to my last one. The styling is considerably nicer, with S-line trim, red stitching on the seats and steering wheel, and red rotors. Although it's a sedan, it looks very different from a standard A6. I've had this car for about 1 1/2 years and have driven just 10k miles, mostly on road trips. It's a great car for road trips - quiet, smooth, and speedy when you need it to be. I took a road trip from LA to Phoenix last year and it cruised quite nicely at 144mph, getting there quite fast. The navigation is easy to use and works well, and the heads-up display is a nice touch at high speeds. It shows destination navigation without impeding vision at all. I got a combined 29.4 mpg to and from LA to Phoenix, even at higher than posted speeds. The car grips the road as though it's glued to it and is exceedingly comfortable, even on dynamic setting. There's very minimal interior noise, and the sound system is great. There's plenty of room for four people to be comfortable. I haven't had any issues with the car, except that it burned a quart of oil in the first 5k, and there's no dipstick in the car. It's on the MMI system. Other than that, it's been impeccable. If you're looking for a car that's well-appointed, comfortable, and fun to drive, I'd certainly recommend considering this car. I plan on keeping it for at least another three years. Neither my last A6 nor this one have had any mechanical issues at all. I don't work for Audi - I'm retired. It's been three years, and the car is the same as the day I bought it - zero mechanical issues. I still enjoy this car today as much as the day I bought it. I've looked at a new Audi A6, but I'm not as impressed as I am with this one.I take exceptional care of both the interior and exterior of my car, and have been diligent with its servicing. Despite owning it for four years, it has only just hit 20k miles as I don't drive it very often. I have always made sure to service it when required and have had all necessary maintenance done each time. So far, I have not experienced any issues with the car and it still rides as great as the day I purchased it. All systems are functioning perfectly. While I haven't been impressed with the newer models of the A-6, and the electric ones are quite expensive, I plan on keeping this car until something goes wrong or I find a car that I like as much as this one. The paint and interior are still as nice as the day I bought it, and it's hard to find a vehicle that can match its options, size, comfort, speed, and durability.
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Great car! If you're looking for a comfortable ride, I'd recommend avoiding the 20 inch summer tires. However, if you're looking for better handling when pushing the car in the curves, the 20 inch tires are a great choice. Overall, for everyday use, the smaller tires are a better option. As someone who has owned three Audis, I can confidently say that I'm sold on this brand.
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Everything that was mentioned earlier remains unchanged. I have been experiencing some issues with my car losing or burning oil, about a quart between changes. I had the dealership run a consumption test, but they provided little explanation except that the car may burn a quart between changes. I believe that they recommend too thin a synthetic oil, but that would increase the mileage. I haven't tried a thicker oil yet and will likely wait until summer to do so. I purchased a 2018 Volvo XC60 for my wife, but she prefers the ride, comfort, and handling of the A6 so much better that she insisted that we trade cars. After almost 49 years of marriage, what can one say? I am content with the Volvo, but I will probably trade it in for an Audi/Porsche/VW product in the next year or two. This car is enjoyable to drive, quiet, comfortable, powerful, and great on gas. The only issue is the oil consumption because no new car should burn oil between changes.
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This car is the best car I have ever owned. It has great everything! However, there is one tiny irksome feature - the stop-start feature is enabled when you start the car and you have to turn it off every time. Personally, I do not care for it because sometimes it causes a hard stop/stop jerk.
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The 2018 model has some noticeable improvements. The ride and steering feel more connected, and the car moves off from a stop more quickly. Additionally, the Apple Car Play and LED lights are a nice upgrade. I'm particularly happy with the driver assistance package, which includes auto following cruise control, lane departure warning, and auto collision avoidance. Overall, I'm very pleased with my purchase and the S-line trim looks great too.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Audi A6 problems:
2018 Audi A6 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
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.

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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.
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!