2021 Audi RS6 Avant

The 2021 Audi RS6 Avant is a high-performance wagon that blends practicality with exhilarating power. In the North American market, it comes exclusively with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the RS6’s blistering acceleration, comfortable ride (especially with the air suspension), and the cargo-carrying versatility of the wagon body style. However, some criticisms include the high price tag, potential for expensive maintenance, and complex electronics that can sometimes be finicky.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light. Potential causes include oil starvation or bearing failure within the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+ (depending on the shop and whether one or both turbos need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots on the garage floor, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Leaks can occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and turbocharger oil lines.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, especially between certain gears, noticeable hesitation during acceleration, or a “clunk” sound when shifting. This can be related to the valve body inside the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. Some have reported success with a transmission fluid flush and adaptation reset.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+ (depending on the repair and shop)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, failure of the air suspension to adjust ride height, warning lights on the dashboard related to suspension malfunction, hissing sound from the air compressor.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the leak (air strut, compressor, or air line). Replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ (depending on the component and whether one or both struts need to be replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or crashing of the MMI infotainment system. Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates from the dealership. In some cases, replacement of the MMI control unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software updates) to $1,500+ (for hardware replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Driver Assistance Systems)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms from parking sensors, failure of adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist to function correctly, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor. Replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattles and Squeaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattles and squeaks emanating from various parts of the interior, such as the dashboard, door panels, or seats.
  • Solution: This is usually a process of elimination, requiring careful inspection and tightening of loose components or application of felt tape to prevent rubbing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the severity and location of the rattles, this can be time consuming for a shop to diagnose and fix).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Audi RS6 Avant is a thrilling performance machine, but potential buyers should be aware of a few common issues. Engine problems, particularly turbocharger failure and oil leaks, can be costly to address. Suspension issues, specifically with the air suspension, are also a concern. Electrical glitches in the infotainment system and sensor malfunctions can be frustrating. While most of the issues aren’t widespread, the cost of repair can be significant due to the complexity of the car and the price of parts. Addressing these issues early on with preventative maintenance is important.