2004 Audi S6

The 2004 Audi S6 is a performance-oriented sedan that sits atop the A6 range. It is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine producing 340 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The S6 was only available with a 5-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. Owners of the 2004 Audi S6 appreciate the car’s blend of performance and luxury, its understated styling, and its capable handling. However, common complaints include the car’s age, high maintenance costs, and the potential for expensive repairs due to the complexity of its systems.

Engine

4.2L V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. This indicates worn or failing timing chain tensioners, which can lead to timing chain failure and significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners, guides, and chains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine, often near the valve covers. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, visible coolant leaks from various points in the system (hoses, water pump, reservoir). The plastic coolant pipes are prone to becoming brittle and cracking with age.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking coolant hoses and components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at low speeds. Slipping gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks and Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor running excessively, “Suspension Fault” warning light. Airbags can leak due to age and wear. The compressor can fail due to overuse trying to compensate for leaks.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air struts/springs and/or replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut/spring. Compressor replacement $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per corner.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or faded pixels on the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock remotely, alarm malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty door lock actuators or the central locking control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per door lock actuator or module.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight brightness.
  • Solution: Polish and restore the headlight lenses, or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for polishing; $500 - $1,500+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, or becoming stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or track mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system failing to boot up, displaying incorrect information, or experiencing software glitches.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the navigation system unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Audi S6, while a desirable performance sedan, is prone to various age-related issues. The most severe and costly issues revolve around the engine (timing chain tensioners) and air suspension. Electrical issues and transmission problems can also be expensive to address. Potential buyers should factor in these potential repair costs when considering purchasing a 2004 Audi S6. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly.