2009 Audi S6

The 2009 Audi S6 is a high-performance sedan that offers a blend of luxury and exhilarating performance. It was primarily equipped with a 5.2-liter V10 engine producing 435 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission (Tiptronic) was the sole transmission option. Owners generally appreciate the S6’s powerful engine, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Downsides often mentioned include higher maintenance costs compared to mainstream vehicles, complex electronics that can be problematic, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

5.2L V10

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Higher than normal oil consumption is frequently reported. Symptoms include the need to add oil more frequently than expected, low oil level warnings, and potentially blue smoke from the exhaust. This is often noticed at higher mileages.
  • Solution: Addressing this can range from replacing the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, inspecting valve stem seals and piston rings, or in severe cases, an engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (PCV valve) - $5000+ (Engine Rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the V10 are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Symptoms include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and misfires.
  • Solution: Manual cleaning of the intake valves or walnut blasting to remove carbon deposits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coils Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light. Often multiple coils fail around the same time.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils. Replacing all 10 at once is often recommended to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100 per coil (parts only), $300 - $1000+ (with labor for all 10)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Vacuum Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor acceleration, misfires, and a lean running condition. Can be difficult to pinpoint.
  • Solution: Smoke testing the intake system to identify leaks and replacing any damaged or cracked vacuum lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Tiptronic Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Can also lead to erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or complete loss of certain gears.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The S6 is equipped with air suspension, which is prone to leaks or compressor failure over time. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, failing to raise or lower, and air compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replace the air struts, air compressor, or individual air lines as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or failure of the Multi Media Interface (MMI) system. Common issues include screen malfunctions, GPS problems, and inability to control various vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the MMI control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent dead batteries, even with a relatively new battery installed.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic drains, which can be caused by faulty modules or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights may fail to turn or level properly, resulting in warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight motors or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or fail to open or close completely.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Audi S6, while a thrilling vehicle to drive, comes with its share of potential problems, particularly as it ages. Engine issues such as oil consumption and carbon buildup can be costly to address. Suspension issues can also be expensive, as well as the electronic issues in the car. The cost of repairs can be significant, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection essential.