2016 Audi A6

The 2016 Audi A6 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its refined driving experience, upscale interior, and advanced technology. Engine options included a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, a 3.0-liter supercharged V6, and a high-performance 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 (S6). The 2.0T engine produced 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (S tronic) was standard with the 2.0T engine, while the 3.0T and S6 models came with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the A6’s comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and stylish design. Some criticisms include the sometimes-complex infotainment system and potentially high maintenance costs.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (2.0T)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption can occur, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled services. Owners may notice a low oil level warning light illuminating on the dashboard.
  • Solution: A revised PCV valve or piston rings may be needed to reduce oil consumption. A software update may also help monitor oil levels more accurately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on severity and required repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Supercharged V6 (3.0T)

• Thermostat Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The thermostat housing, often made of plastic, can crack and leak coolant. Symptoms include a coolant warning light, visible coolant leak near the front of the engine, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing with an updated version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The supercharger can fail, leading to reduced power, a whining noise from the engine, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (S tronic) - Matched to 2.0T

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can malfunction. This can result in harsh shifting, failure to shift, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic - Matched to 3.0T

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve body can experience wear or malfunction, leading to harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with air suspension can develop leaks in the air struts or lines, leading to a sagging suspension, a rough ride, or the compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut or line.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the MMI unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on the issue and required repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can occur, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after it has been sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is required to identify the source of the drain. Potential causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ (depending on the issue and required repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Failure (LED)
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlights can fail prematurely, resulting in reduced visibility.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, get stuck, or make excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, track alignment, or component replacement depending on the cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Audi A6, while a generally reliable and enjoyable vehicle, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, such as oil consumption and thermostat housing leaks, can be relatively common and costly to repair. Transmission problems, particularly with the dual-clutch transmission, can also be a concern. Electrical issues, especially related to the infotainment system, are also frequently reported. Suspension issues for air suspension equipped models is another issue to look out for. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but addressing them promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle’s performance and reliability. Overall, pre-purchase inspections and a thorough review of service records are highly recommended when considering a used 2016 Audi A6.