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2018 Audi S6

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2018 Audi S6 is a performance sedan that boasts a potent 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 450 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. All trims come standard with Quattro all-wheel drive and a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission. Drivers often praise the S6 for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride (especially with the optional air suspension), and exhilarating acceleration. However, some common complaints include the relatively high cost of maintenance and repairs, and occasionally complex electronics leading to diagnostic challenges.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil changes than expected. This is sometimes accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: A thorough engine inspection is recommended to check for leaks, worn valve stem seals, or piston ring issues. Depending on the cause, the repair may range from replacing seals to performing a piston ring replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ (depending on the severity and repair needed)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure, manifesting as a loss of power, whistling or whining noises from the engine bay, and potentially illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Diagnosis with a scan tool to identify the affected turbocharger. Replacement of the failed turbocharger is the common repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various locations, often the coolant expansion tank, coolant hoses, or the water pump. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component. Pressure testing the cooling system can help locate leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed S-Tronic Dual-Clutch Transmission

  • Hesitation/Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when accelerating, particularly from a stop, or rough/jerky shifts between gears. Some owners report the issue is more prominent when the transmission is cold.
    • Solution: A transmission adaptation reset and relearn procedure using a diagnostic scan tool is often the first step. If the issue persists, a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may be necessary. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $6000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The Mechatronic unit is the control unit for the transmission. Symptoms of failure include erratic shifting, inability to select gears, and transmission malfunction warnings.
    • Solution: Replacement of the Mechatronic unit, followed by proper programming and adaptation.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle is equipped with the optional air suspension, air leaks can occur in the air struts, air lines, or the air compressor. This can cause the vehicle to sit unevenly, or the suspension to fail to raise properly. A warning light may illuminate on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Locate the source of the leak using soapy water or a diagnostic scan tool. Replace the leaking air strut, air line, or repair/replace the air compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The MMI infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, and connectivity problems. Some owners report issues with Bluetooth pairing, navigation errors, or screen malfunctions.
    • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the MMI control unit may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors, oxygen sensors, or mass airflow sensors, can fail, leading to warning lights and performance issues.
    • Solution: Diagnose the specific sensor failure using a diagnostic scan tool and replace the faulty sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights may fail to adjust properly or display error messages.
    • Solution: Diagnose the headlight system using a diagnostic scan tool. The headlight motor, control module, or the entire headlight assembly may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per headlight
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, make unusual noises, or leak water.
    • Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks for debris and lubricate them. In some cases, the sunroof motor or mechanism may need to be repaired or replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Audi S6 offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues, including oil consumption, turbocharger problems, and transmission quirks. Electrical issues, especially with the infotainment system, are also reported. While the severity of these issues can vary, repairs can be costly due to the complexity of the vehicle and the price of Audi parts. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.

Audi, S6
Audi S6 2018
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