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2018 Audi A6 Quattro

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2018 Audi A6 Quattro is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Engine options included a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, and a 3.0-liter supercharged V6. The 3.0T engine, rated at 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, offers a significant performance boost over the base engine. The 2018 A6 is praised for its quiet cabin, user-friendly infotainment system, and available driver-assistance features. Some common complaints include the complexity of the infotainment system and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

3.0L Supercharged V6

  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are sometimes reported around the thermostat housing or water pump area. Low coolant levels, overheating, and visible leaks are symptoms.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty thermostat housing and/or water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Supercharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the supercharger, reduced boost, and a potential check engine light.
    • Solution: Supercharger rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption is observed by some owners, leading to frequent top-ups.
    • Solution: Piston ring replacement or engine repair in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, and potential for a check engine light.
    • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+

Transmission

7-Speed S Tronic Dual-Clutch Transmission

  • Rough Shifting/Jerking
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough shifting, particularly at low speeds. Jerking or hesitation during gear changes can occur.
    • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM), or clutch replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ (software update) / $2000 - $4000+ (clutch replacement)

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with air suspension, some owners have reported issues with the air springs leaking, leading to a sagging vehicle or failure of the air compressor.
    • Solution: Air spring replacement or air compressor replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per air spring / $600 - $1500+ for the compressor

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The MMI infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, freezing, or slow response times.
    • Solution: Software update, MMI unit reset, or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) / $500 - $2000+ (MMI unit replacement)
  • Sensor Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., parking sensors, blind spot monitoring sensors) can malfunction, leading to warning lights or inoperative systems.
    • Solution: Sensor replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise when opening or closing, or leak water.
    • Solution: Sunroof track lubrication/repair, or sunroof motor replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+

Recalls

  • 23V-844: Audi of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Q5 and SQ5 vehicles and 2019 A6 and A7 vehicles. The drain hose for the condensation from the air conditioning system may be blocked, causing water to accumulate near the gateway control module.
  • 20V-694: Audi of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Audi A6 Sedan, A7 Sedan, 2019-2020 A8 Sedan, Q8 SUV, and 2020 Q7 SUV vehicles. The gateway control module may not have been sealed properly, allowing water to enter.

Summary

The 2018 Audi A6 Quattro can have a variety of issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches to more serious engine and transmission problems. Engine and transmission issues tend to be the most expensive to repair, especially issues involving the supercharger or clutches. Air suspension problems, if equipped, can also be costly. Electrical and interior issues are generally less severe and cheaper to fix. It’s important to consider these potential issues when purchasing a used 2018 Audi A6 Quattro and to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic prior to purchase.

Audi, A6 Quattro
Audi A6 Quattro 2018
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