2001 Audi A6 Consumer Discussions

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• want honest opinion

  Written by: alnmae on Jul 22, 2010 8:09:00 PM

  i'am looking at a 2001 audi a6 2.7t car looks beautiful but has 148000 . do you think that would be a good buy? the car is being sold 4500 but have gotten him down to 3800.just being cautious with my money cause times is hard.

• Re: Buying Used Audi A6 2.8 [robo10]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Apr 22, 2010 11:33:48 AM

  These cars are pretty sophisticated - and as I mentioned previously, they need to be taken care of. When I bought my 2001 I was looking for a 6-speed manual. There weren't a lot around and the first dealer I went to had one as a demo. I drove it but I wouldn't consider buying it because many people were test drive the 6-speed just to see what it could do. ... Read More

• Buying Used Audi A6 2.8

  Written by: robo10 on Apr 22, 2010 8:54:00 AM

  Hi i am seriously considering buying a used 2001 Audi A6 2.8 from Japan. I intend to buy it online so i have only the dealers word for it. However, after reading many posts, i am getting quite concerned about the numerous problems that people seem to have even with newer models. Any advice on whether i should go for it? Cheers!!

• Taking care of your Audi

  Written by: kirby2010 on Apr 9, 2010 6:50:31 AM

  Interesting reading. It's been a while since I posted anything though. My 2001 A-6 2.7T w/6-speed is nine years old now. Bought it new. I have 106K miles on it. In nine years I've had only five things go wrong and three were fixed in conjunction with scheduled service: digital display was replaced, interlock switch that required a handful of ignition key turns when I started the car, and a cracked ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: 2000 A6 V8 4.2L [saxon2nsx]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 11, 2009 1:05:44 PM

  I had one of these -- I'll give you some input: 1. What should I look out for that is specific to this model/year/engine? Nothing that I know of -- the 4.2 is thirsty, but the thing is powerful and smooth and sounds great. I had brake disk issues with mine which Audi fixed by replacing the entire brake system -- otherwise it only has a 5speed auto which TODAY would ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• 2001 Audi A6 power steering problem

  Written by: ymote on Jun 6, 2009 12:39:06 AM

  Hi, My 2001 Audi A6 has power steering issue. When the car is parked with outside temperature under 60F for a night, the second morning the power steering is very heavy. I have to drive it for a while and restart the engine to get back the smooth steering. If I just drive it without restarting the engine, it won't get better. Looks like a sensor issue. Is anybody having the ... Read More

Audi A6

• audi a6

  Written by: lewkowicz on May 28, 2009 11:11:10 AM

  Have a 2001 A6..the remote key access does not work, can this be repaired or do i need to buy a new one for 200.00.

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• audi A6 gas cap issue

  Written by: lewkowicz on Apr 29, 2009 12:25:03 PM

  have a 2001 A6...check engine light keeps coming on..dealer said its gas cap...bought a new one, good for a while then light comes on. Dealer said its a costly fix..any ideas anyone ?

• Re: KEY STUCK-A6 IN SHOP 3 WEEKS [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: straylo on Apr 21, 2009 8:33:50 AM

  TSB - 96 08 07 doesn't seem to apply here : The car is 2001 A6 Quattro 2.7T. I can start the car and everything runs fine including locking/security system, brake switch / transmission interlocks etc. I simply can not remove the ignition key. Is this simply a mechanical problem in the ignition lock or something more sinister like a software problem in a steering column control module. How many reasons ... Read More

Audi A6 Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Re: Known issues with the A6 CVT Transmission ? [rjlaero]

  Written by: sixdays on Mar 28, 2009 7:06:48 AM

  hi i have audi a6 2.5 tdi cvt 2001/02,and have clutch lag before it eng...but on the move no probs,do you think oil and filter is the prob,do you no how you check the oil levels on this for the cvt box,can you just empty it change the filter and fill it up with oil,and do you no the kind of oil i will need for this many thanks porscha

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• audi a6 2.5 tdi 2001 cvt problems

  Written by: sixdays on Mar 27, 2009 12:24:04 PM

  hi there i have a prob when i start the car ,not a big one i hope OK. 1 /if i put the car into gear it will creep fall wards or backwards,it also take high revs before it sets off then its all of nice smooth drive, 2/interior lights all work except the one on the mirror switch vent switches odds and sods fuse is good. just got the car ... Read More

• Re: transmission? [Brooksman]

  Written by: sixdays on Mar 27, 2009 9:30:28 AM

  hi there can you help me , my Audi a6 2.5 tdi 2001 on a y reg,is going OK ,but when i put it in reverse and pull away up my small incline out of my garage it needs plenty of revs then it jumps into motion and the same in fall word gear on the flat lesser of a prob ,if you think its the fluid can you tell me ... Read More

• 2001 A6 2.8 Engine CRACKED

  Written by: PandasBamboo on Dec 6, 2008 8:00:16 PM

  Hello fellow Audi Owners, I live in Seattle, WA have a 2001 A6 2.8 with 60k miles on it and is currently experiencing catastrophic engine failure - or at least that's how it being described by my mechanic. About 2 weeks ago I was driving and my low coolant engine light flicked on along with that lovely triple beep alerting me to problem. I had only been driving for about 15 ... Read More

• Re: 2001 A6 2.7 balancing/wheel/tire problems [jazzmbm]

  Written by: yusuf2173 on Nov 22, 2008 9:58:44 AM

  Hi do you have aluminum alloy wheels, I just replaced my old tires that were on my car because my car was shaking like the tires were not ballanced. So I purchased new tires but the car still shakes a little bit in the steering wheel but more in the gas pedal. What is skaking the most on you car ? I have a very good mechanic that is very informational ... Read More

• Audi A6 Temperature Sensor

  Written by: subhash_sen1 on Nov 10, 2008 12:56:47 PM

  Is there any site for Audi A6 Repair Manual (2001) on the net? Where is the temperature sensor located for Audi a6 2.7 Quattro? Thanks Subhash Sen

Audi A6

• new audi owner

  Written by: newasixowner on Aug 1, 2008 7:34:59 PM

  i just bought a 2001 A6 2.7T. Thecar did not come with an owners manual so i need some help. when i put the car in reverse after just starting it, the instrument panel says "service". what is this refering to?

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• 2001 A6 Auto Transmission Problem.. is this common?

  Written by: amazer on May 27, 2008 8:17:59 AM

  I'm a newbie to this forum, so I'm especially looking forward to your feedback. I did a search for this topic, but didn't find anything similar previously. Well, here's my problem. I bought my dad's 2001 A6 2.7 with Tiptronic last summer. It's a great car and has only 68,000 miles. But a couple of months ago I noticed that when I started the car in the morning and put it ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: 04 Audi 2.7T [oodmoff]

  Written by: markcincinnati on May 2, 2008 5:34:47 PM

  I loved the 2004 A6 2.7T (SLine? as they all were at the end?) -- I really loved the 2.7T -- was this the uprated version (more than 250HP?) I have been very pleased with Audi reliability (except the 2000-2001 rotors -- and 47K is young. However, IF it does break, it will likely be breathtakingly exepensive if it turns out to be related to the turbo/engine. I also am a ... Read More

Audi A6 Brakes

• A6 brakes

  Written by: raincheck1 on Oct 18, 2007 2:30:30 PM

  I've replaced my 2001 A6 2.7T rear brakes at 20K miles as rec'd by Audi dealer service. Seems suspicious to me...

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Audi A6 Timing belt [audilover]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Oct 17, 2007 2:49:17 PM

  I share (shared) you concern. Mine is a 2001 2.7T. At the 90K service interval earlier this year I had the timing belt changed. I started asking about it at 60K and the service department assured me there was no problem - still, like you, I'd like to keep this car for a long time. I actually bought a Toyota 4Runner in September to drive to work three days a week ... Read More

Audi A6 Tires and Wheels

• Re: Tire size for a 2007 A6 S-Line package [dbates1]

  Written by: chelle26 on Aug 6, 2007 6:50:49 PM

  that's cool...they are certain, it should be installed to see it that fits to your '07 A6...i have my 2001 audi and had fuel injector installation last month..it's better and high quality Audi A6 parts..

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Thinking about purchasing a 2001 a6 2.7, or 1998 a6 2.8 (both quattro) [bcurrier]

  Written by: tbessman on Jun 29, 2007 6:31:40 PM

  I have a 97 a6 quattro. I bought it at a reasonable price but have put a considerable amount into it. Front CV joints, rear brakes, new brake lines at the wheels.... every time I take it to the Audi dealer they want to do something to it. the last time they wanted to flush the brake system. All repairs are expensive. Be cautious.

Audi A6

• Re: Can the 2001 Audi A6 run on regular gas [brian124]

  Written by: pat on Jun 11, 2007 11:56:54 AM

  I think this is what you were looking for: Do You Really Need Premium? :)

• Re: Can the 2001 Audi A6 run on regular gas [drosenthal2]

  Written by: brian124 on Jun 11, 2007 8:52:52 AM

  There used to be an article on Edmunds about using fuel that had an octane rating that differed from what the manufacturer suggested. I couldn't find the link, but to recap the article, using octane that is too high for your engine results in fuel that is not fully used in the combustion process and as a result can damage your emissions system. Using fuel that is too low in octane ... Read More

• Re: Can the 2001 Audi A6 run on regular gas [drosenthal2]

  Written by: shipo on Jun 11, 2007 7:29:10 AM

  There is a significant body of both scientific and empirical evidence that suggests that using Regular gasoline in a car optimized for Premium (such as an A6) will result in measurably LOWER fuel economy. Said another way (using Mark's example), given that Premium gasoline is between 5% and 6% more expensive than Regular these days, any "savings" gained by buying fuel on the cheap will be eaten up due to having ... Read More

• Re: Can the 2001 Audi A6 run on regular gas [drosenthal2]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 10, 2007 2:51:16 PM

  You can run it on regular. It is a false economy to do so, however. Do it, anyway, you will, apparently, feel better after using 1,000 gallons and "thinking" you have saved $200. You probably won't hurt the pistons, the engine management computer will alter the ignition and it is likely you will use a bit more gas as the combination of your foot and the computer will simply trade one ... Read More

• Can the 2001 Audi A6 run on regular gas

  Written by: drosenthal2 on Jun 7, 2007 5:31:42 PM

  Hey I noticed on the EPA website that the 01 A6 requires premium gas, where I live gas is really pricey and there is a .20 cent differential between regular and +92 octane fuel. I know on certain cars the auto companies have premium to bump up performance #'s and the cars can run fine on regular just with decreased performance I don't mind the dip in horsepower but would this ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2000 A6 w/100000 miles [roberto8]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Mar 2, 2007 2:36:27 AM

  For what its worth - I have a 2001 2.7T w/6-speed with 88,000 miles and I really like this car. I bought it new. It was hard finding a 6-speed on the lot and typically they were demos. 6 speeds got quite a bit of press for their performance and I was worried about how the demo units were driven so I had the dealer find a car that was still ... Read More

• Re: Thinking about purchasing a 2001 a6 2.7, or 1998 a6 2.8 (both quattro)

  Written by: liferules on May 25, 2007 10:58:48 AM

  I don't think anyone can tell you the likelihood of either car breaking down, as there is no way to predict this. Common sense dictates that the older car may be more likely to have worn out parts than the one 3 years younger. If the younger car was mainly driven highway miles, then the high mileage may not be as "rough" on the engine. Some say turbo's break more than ... Read More

Audi A6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• First time with an Audi

  Written by: audi4dkv on Apr 21, 2007 9:15:23 AM

  Just traded in my tired ex-sales vehicle (97 Chrysler Cirrus LXi 142k mi) for a 2001 Audi A6 4.2. Vehicle has sports and cold weather packages and is in excellent condition. My local mechanic gave it a clean bill of health. Concern is the mileage (78k mi). Lots of horror stories on this site + local dealer is warning me about the timing belt. Anyone have advice on 80k checkup and ... Read More

Audi A6

• Choices, choices, choices

  Written by: ricka1 on Mar 22, 2007 1:40:16 PM

  Recently looked at several of the above-mentioned cars. Had my first German ride--a 2001 3.6 Passat for 125k miles--and it worked magnificently. Hardly a problem. Narrowed down the new choices to TL,Infinity GS and Audi A6 Quattro. TL and GS were much less $$$. Both drove great, but had issues with trunk space (need room for golf bags)and neither had fold down rear seats. FWD on TL wasn't an issue but ... Read More

Audi A6 Audio Questions

• Re: Some more questions [liferules]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Mar 11, 2007 2:47:56 PM

  Since when does the Audi play DVD-audio discs? The air suspension, as far as I know, still uses springs, but there are four air bladders that can compress and decompress the springs (ride height lowers during compression and vice versa.) I was loaned two Q7s (for several days each time.) One had the air suspension. One did not. I also had an allroad for 3 years. I traded a 2001 A6 ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Is there a difference? [zgreatlife]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jan 13, 2007 7:11:05 PM

  WOW. I had the following (not a complete list): 1995 S6 1997 A8 1999 A6 2.8 2000 A6 4.2 comfort 2001 A6 4.2 sport 2003 allroad 2.7T 2005 A6 3.2 with 18" wheels and 245 x 40 x 18" tires At the same time, my wife had multiple A4's, three TT's and one BMW X3 3.0. The A6 is the quietest of the bunch (including the A8), it also is both ... Read More

Future Audi Platform Models

• Re: future audi platform models. [dhamilton]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jan 5, 2007 6:20:46 PM

  You must mean the SALES leader IN the US market, for the Audi is the SALES leader in the German market. From time to time the BMW will be the sales champ, then the Audi will swap with it. However, the difference in SALES between the two is typically not as great elsewhere as it is in the US. This has been the case for years. These two German Rivals are ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Hmmm

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jan 3, 2007 8:24:32 AM

  But, what if Audis A6 4.2 is LESS money than a new 535xi? Will that win friends and influence customers? Or will the 535 be somehow compared with the then most potent 6 cylinder version of the A6 (and a similar offering from Mercedes in the E class?) I do remember my friend's i6 5 series was MORE money than my V8 A6 back in 2001 -- and I had quattro ... Read More

• Re: Audi, safe at first [cstiles]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Nov 21, 2006 3:38:59 PM

  In 2000, I picked up an A6 4.2 quattro sport -- it was a 2001 model. It had -- heck it was an alphabet soup of TLA's like ESP, APC, ETC, TCPIP, ABS, and a partridge in a pear tree, it had sat nav and a hands free factory phone for what that is worth (with a directory, phone book and so on), too. Now, the gov says "ESP" is a ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2001 Audi A6 2.8 repair history [bronxfox1]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Nov 18, 2006 3:23:32 AM

  Sorry to get into the discussion late. I have some background on a couple of these. I bought my 2.7T w/speed new March 2001. 4 - I had the entire display assembly replaced under warranty at about 16K miles. The time and date would go out and come on at irregular intervals. No problem since. 6 - There is a button on the bottom of the turn signal stalk. Push up ... Read More

• Re: 2001 Audi A6 2.8 repair history [bronxfox1]

  Written by: brian124 on Nov 14, 2006 3:19:20 PM

  I don't know or understand what you are asking in some of your questions but I'll take a stab at a few: 1. The temperature setting on your climate control has nothing to do with the temp of the air leaving the vents. The degree of temp you set on the display is the temp you would like the air in the cabin to be. If you select auto, the climate ... Read More

• Re: 2001 Audi A6 2.8 repair history [klolly]

  Written by: bronxfox1 on Nov 7, 2006 10:38:32 PM

  Any comments about the following since we have the same car.. HELP! I just purchased my first Audi 2001 2.8L 6cyl. 65,000 miles. These are my issues: 1.Heat is coming out of the driver window side AC duct when the climate control is on anything other than LO 2. AC is freezing on low but anything else seems warmer than the displayed temperature. 3. When the AC is off. Light flow ... Read More

• 2001 Audi A6 Heat and Display Problem

  Written by: bronxfox1 on Nov 7, 2006 10:25:09 PM

  I just purchased my first Audi 2001 2.8L 6cyl. 65,000 miles. These are my issues: 1.Heat is coming out of the driver window side AC duct when the climate control is on anything other than LO 2. AC is freezing on low but anything else seems warmer than the displayed temperature. 3. When the AC is off. Light flow of heat is coming out of the AC ducts or around the ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: Need help with purchase [ecnirp]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Nov 2, 2006 5:48:19 AM

  This Audi, I'd bet can be had as a major bargain. The engine in it sounds sweet -- especially when you go deep on the accelerator. The reliability by the time the 2004's had come about (in the C5's history) should not be an issue. With 30K miles on it, it has 20K of the Audi advantage left, is eligble for the 100K Certified Pre-owned designation and there are also Audi ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Car People [pat]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Oct 7, 2006 9:56:37 AM

  Selling England by the Pound -- Genesis. You win the cupie doll, Pat! Here in Cincinnati, the new generation of BMW's with that spanky new "35" twin turbo engine are rolling out -- at this point, the 335 sedan and coupes are RWD, but already the 328 is offered with AWD and next year the X drive option will be added for about $1900. It promises to be a brisk seller. ... Read More

• "The Itch. . ."

  Written by: markcincinnati on Sep 28, 2006 8:47:27 AM

  Back in the days when smoking (in a car) was even done, a friend of mine -- a smoker -- would kid me and say "Mark gets a new car every time the ash tray gets full." Since I am not a smoker, I only related to this comment in a symbolic way. My friend, now not a smoker (and I never permitted him to smoke in my cars in any ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2001 A6 MIL is on [4rino]

  Written by: gbman on Aug 30, 2006 8:15:48 AM

  I have had a similar problem and thought I would share my experience, although I will be more brief in the interest of time. Long story short I have a 2001 A6 2.7t that has been out of service for 45 of the last seventy days until a week ago and was in on six different occasions all for a check engine light triggered by the oxygen sensors. The problem appeared ... Read More

• Re: 2001 Audi A6 troubles [lakegirl86]

  Written by: jodar on Aug 20, 2006 9:42:26 PM

  Yes, the Audis are expensive to maintain, but you need to be smart about how you approach the recommended maintenence schedules. You don't have to take it to the dealer everytime as they will charge you up to the hilt for anything and everything. You should look at the recommended items that need to be changed and either buy the parts yourself, from either a reputable Audi parts shop or off ... Read More

• Re: 2001 Audi A6 troubles [lakegirl86]

  Written by: kgary on Aug 19, 2006 12:51:29 PM

  Sell. Too expensive without warranty.

• 2001 Audi A6 troubles

  Written by: lakegirl86 on Aug 19, 2006 7:09:32 AM

  I own an 2001 Audi A6 2.7 - have owned it for 3 years and I love it. I was so glad to find this forum as I need some advice. Over the years I have put about $3,000 into this car in repairs - things NOT covered under the warranty - include warranty items - who knows how much has been spent. I took it into the Audi dealership for ... Read More

• Re: Ignition problems 2005 A6 Quatro (update) [sfcharlie]

  Written by: bumbie on Aug 6, 2006 2:33:19 PM

  I did read the article, thank you for the suggestion. The starter/ignition problems however were geared towards a faulty advance key/start feature, which I do not have in my A6. I did get the car back last Wednesday after Audi stripped the software and reinstalled it, but the car is doing the exact same thing, it is not fixed. I was told by an acquaintance of my husbands, that in his ... Read More

• 2001 Audi A6 2.8 repair history

  Written by: klolly on Jul 29, 2006 3:34:30 PM

  For those of you that own this vehicle, I'd love to get a recap of your repairs. I bought it new in April 2001 and it has been in the shop 18 times, a few were for routine maintenance (10K, 20K, etc.) but each time, little things cropped up. My biggest problem appears to be brakes. At 17K miles they resurfaced the first time. Then at 24,500 they replaced pads & ... Read More

Audi A6 4.2 vs Mercedes E350 4matic

• Re: Audi A6 4.2 vs Mercedes E350 4matic [reality2]

  Written by: microrepair on Jul 6, 2006 9:25:07 PM

  I'm curious as to how many miles you folks put on your Audis before you trade or sell them. And the same for the E-class owners. I've looked closely at the A6 V6's also but ended up owning 2 E320's. Maybe you don't keep them long enough to have any problems show up. The last three cars I have owned and used for myself have had 99K, 140K, and my current ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Audi June sales

  Written by: sfcharlie on Jul 5, 2006 7:24:13 AM

  Audi June Sales Highest In 2006 (from Car and Driver) * Sales up 9.0 percent in June, best June since 2001 * First half sales up 6.8 percent over year ago * Q7 launch off to a strong start * A4 and A6 models continue robust sales pace AUBURN HILLS, Mich., July 3 -- Audi of America, Inc., today reported 8,039 vehicle sales for the month of June, a 9.0 percent ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Audi A6 3.0 Balancing/Wheel/Tire problems [fki2]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Jun 14, 2006 1:43:42 AM

  Glad to give one perspective. I don't do a lot of highway driving and on a recent trip I noticed I had a bit of a shimy. On my last service interval I had the tires balanced and rotated. Most of it disappeared. But the service rep told me I had been driving on under inflated tires. Not sure how he know this but it's certainly plausible. He went on to ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: Others [bargamon]

  Written by: sfcharlie on Jun 11, 2006 8:25:02 PM

  I'm not sure how to link your comments to those of mine to which you responded. I'm checking to see if I'm understanding you the way you intended. Your assertion appears to be that, if asked in 2004 whether, as someone who bought an Allroad in 2001, if you'd buy an Allroad again, you'd say "no" because when it comes time for a new car you seek a different drive. I ... Read More

• Re: Others [sfcharlie]

  Written by: bargamon on Jun 11, 2006 6:26:15 PM

  I love my Allroad! But If I had a 2001 and it was 2004 when they still made them I too would not "get the same car"! Why, cuz I want a different drive everytime. Curious, it it "buy" or "lease"? Anyway We see brand loyalty everywhere. Honda people buy Hondas, Toyota people are loyal to them, and so on. I likley will go to an A6 if I say at ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Mark - Brakes A8 [rayainsw]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 8, 2006 12:26:56 PM

  The A8 was not plagued with brake rotor issues that would merit much discussion. Two A6 4.2's (a 2000 and a 2001) however, went through 9 (NINE) sets of rotors during my ownership experience with them. The dealer and AUDI worked with me -- I was never without transportation and I can and will admit to levels of ebbing and flowing frustration over this situation. During this period of time, I ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: 2006 vs 2007 [dan339g]

  Written by: markcincinnati on May 4, 2006 8:36:17 AM

  I believe the power column was avail elsewhere. I wonder what they were thinking since my 1997 A8 had this, as did my 2000 and 2001 A6's. Save a little money perhaps? Yet, I hardly miss it -- I rarely changed the setting even when it was power assisted. I am at least pleased that my manual wheel can be both tilted and telescoped and am nearly shocked when I note ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Thinking about buying a 03 A6 2.7T 6 speed [jaydoll]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Apr 10, 2006 5:40:58 PM

  From my perspective there's no question - I would buy another 2.7T w/6-speed. I have a 2001 w/70,000 miles. I've had a few problems but the dealer has dealt with all of them during a routine service interval. In the one or two instances I've had to leave the car I had a loaner. Usually I wait for it. The car is a blast to drive. I looked at BMW, Volvo, ... Read More

• Re: 2001 A6 MIL is on [manginijm]

  Written by: ccusick on Apr 7, 2006 6:17:38 PM

  Put some Chevron high test in the tank and see if that helps also driving in S or Sport mode has really made a big difference. BTW they (AUDI) will not replace sensors on my car even though it is under warranty and they consider that a cusotmer pay option. Never use Amoco or BP gas don't know why but my car runs better without it.

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: They Ain't Gonna Sell [gohorns1]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Feb 8, 2006 8:43:06 PM

  I have had only minor [Audi, BMW, VW] problems since my first Audi in 1977. I gather some folks are not satisfied with the level of reliability that have been associated with Audis, BMW's and Mercedes over some not too distant past time frame. I had two Audi A6 4.2's that had between them 9 sets of brake rotors. The MY's were 2000 and 2001. I had an On*star problem with ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2006 A6 3.2 - first oil change [legendman]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Jan 25, 2006 7:26:27 PM

  When the car was new - March 2001 - I asked about changing oil after the first 1000 miles. The service manager told me the breakdown oil was designed to operate until the first recommended oil change. I think it was 5,000 miles. After that the recommendation was every 10,000 miles. This was included in the free maintenance (subject of much debate on this board). I let the breakdown oil go ... Read More

• Great Audi Experience

  Written by: vermontjimbo on Jan 19, 2006 1:37:14 AM

  Just thought I'd log in as one person who has had positive Audi experiences. I'm picking up a 2006 A6 3.2 on a 36mo lease tomorrow. I'm trading a Certified 2001 A6 2.7T 6 speed, which has every available option, and which I bought at 14k. It now has 63k. I worried about reliability at the outset, but I've never had any unscheduled interruption during it's service life. The dealer did ... Read More

• Re: 2006 A6 3.2 - first oil change [hawk248]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Jan 18, 2006 6:41:08 PM

  Hawk - Not sure I agree with the other position on removing the breakdown oil too prematurely. I asked about it when I bought my 2001 and the service manager recommended the full service interval. I do take my car in every 5000 miles for oil and a tire rotation. 5 years and 71K miles and I'm still very happy. I may trade in the future -- I've been saying that ... Read More

• Re: 2001 A6 2.7T Window Problems [streth]

  Written by: marleybarr on Jan 16, 2006 1:20:39 PM

  Had the same problem on my Audi. Dealer replaced the driver's door lock assembly. Audi part # 4B1-837-063-A LOCK ZYL ------------$121.07 Labor to Install-------------------------------$289.50 Airfreight PART from Germany-------------------$20.00 Fixed the problem but now car has 2 keys, one for the ignition , and the new one for the door. Will only be an issue if the remote key FOB fails.

• Re: Audi A6 turbo [rpatch]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Dec 6, 2005 6:38:20 PM

  Congratulations. I think you'll like your car. Mine is a 2001 2.7T w/6-speed. The check engine light has come on twice in five years. The first time the gas cap was loose and the second time there was a failed heat sensor somewhere. My service manager told me there were over 1500 reasons why the check engine light would come on. An Audi service department should be able to run a ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: bmw . . . Audi squandered its key differentiator. . . [lexusguy]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Dec 14, 2005 6:30:19 PM

  I believe both 5th and 6th gear are overdriven on the 6spd tip. To peat and repeat: this transmission coupled with the 3.2L V6 in this Audi is the best automatic transmission I personally have ever experienced. It NOW has virtually no lag -- especially since I drive it in "S" mode. The issue and some folks LIKE this, is that the transmission retains second gear when slowing down but NOT ... Read More

• Re: Test drove. . . and keyless

  Written by: markcincinnati on Nov 22, 2005 8:23:19 PM

  With the Audi Advanced Key, there is still a key hole, the key works normally if the pushbutton start fails. Although I am on my fourth pushbutton start, this one has worked for 2 months, without issue, a new record. The MSRP of the LPS cars: Audi A6 3.2, BMW 330xi and Infiniti M35x are NOT similar, but they are within some reason competitive. My A6 with the options as I ... Read More

• Mare's eat oats and Doe's eats oats. . .and anecdotes. . .

  Written by: markcincinnati on Oct 14, 2005 8:04:36 AM

  . . .Between my wife, a handful of company cars (all Audis) and me, we have had two dozen plus Audis, one VW Jetta, one VW Quantum, one BMW 325ix, and one American Eagle (I thought it was a quattro, I was misinformed) prior to our current 2005 A6 and X3. Of our German cars, ONE, one time left us stranded (it was an Audi 90CS quattro and it lost its ... Read More

• Re: Audi a "premium" nameplate? [sdiver68]

  Written by: dan339g on Oct 11, 2005 8:12:34 PM

  I would agree that historically in the US, Audi has been a "wannabe" player in the premium market, in the shadow of MB and BMW. I seem to recall a description in one of the Auto mag's of Audi as the "German Buick". I personally shared this perception, which was re-enforced when I test drove an A6 in both 1999 and 2001 while shopping for my last two vehicles (Volvo S80 ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Considering a CPO A6 Purchase...Please Advise [shaymasdaddy]

  Written by: kirby2010 on Sep 28, 2005 11:20:06 PM

  I'd be pretty happy with that choice, too. I have a 2001 2.7T w/6-speed. 66K miles in four and a half years. I've had a couple minor problems. I had a sensor go out that made the car take several tries to start. It took two visits to the dealer (loaner each time) to find the problem. It was a combination of clutch and seat. Since the problem occurred infrequently the ... Read More

• Re: 2001 A6 2.7 balancing/wheel/tire problems [mdavis1]

  Written by: miguel991 on Aug 25, 2005 1:00:02 PM

  I am in the same positon with my front end - I have had my brakes pads and rotors replaced / turned 6 times in the past one year since owning the vehicle - Audi says I am hard driving the car and this is why I am going through pads/rotors at this rate - please. Also, my front end shakes at virtually every speed - funny, they told me my ... Read More

• Re: A6 cam seal leakage [marleybarr]

  Written by: jim_mckeon on Aug 17, 2005 6:51:12 PM

  I had this same issue as well with my 2001 2.7T. The mechanic said it was the "camshaft chain tensioner gaskets." Cost me over $1200 to replace a $20 part. Why does Audi design the engines such that simple repairs require the whole thing be disassembled?

Luxury Performance Sedans

• New meat

  Written by: larryoflebanon on Aug 7, 2005 2:23:14 PM

  I did not expect to be in the market for a new LPS. I was driving to meet someone for dinner in my 2001 BMW 540i, a great car, when I had to lock up the brakes to avoid hitting a car that pulled out in front of me. The guy behind me in a 1990 Caravan did not have the same stopping power and totaled my car. I live in ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: Using Bluetooth Phone for A6 [bondguy1]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Aug 2, 2005 2:05:08 PM

  Ask the dealer about the differences -- Audi brake jobs, speaking from experience can be more than $800 if four rotors are needed. I know I had nine brake jobs in total on my two A6's (2000 A6 4.2 and 2001 A6 4.2 sport.) My 2003 quattro did not need brakes at 46,000 miles -- the brakes on that car were never bad, they were just never up to the level ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Your Dealer May Be Wrong [jodar]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jul 21, 2005 2:19:00 PM

  Brake rotors have been practically THE ONLY issue I have ever had with our 28 Audis since 1977. My 2000+2001 A6 4.2's combined had the rotors replaced 9 times (free). My 2003 allroad was turned in with 46,000 miles on it and original everything (insofar as the brakes were concerned.) My 2005 A6, at 2,000 miles has the best brakes of any Audi I have ever had and may have the ... Read More

• Re: 2001 A6 2.7 balancing/wheel/tire problems [donslook]

  Written by: mdavis1 on Jul 14, 2005 12:27:14 PM

  I am steamed! I have an Audi A6 3.0. Recently found absnormal tire wear and took the vehicle to the dealer for alignment. They couldn't get the rear end back to align within factory spec. Service Manager was sure it was a defective part as there had been no impact, and he had seen it before on other new Audis. He called the factory rep, who refused to honor the warranty. ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: Audi A6 [craigs1]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jul 3, 2005 9:48:40 AM

  Congrats on your new Audi -- the 4.2 is the sweetest sounding engine, and once you hit 1,000 miles you can floor it and really hear what this sounds like. The "lack of lag" however does beg me to ask the question: the past, say, 50,000 miles of driving have been with an automatic or a manual? I am now into day 2.5 of using the tip mode -- the responsiveness ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2001 A6 2.7 balancing/wheel/tire problems [donslook]

  Written by: jazzmbm on Jun 30, 2005 11:46:49 AM

  Hi there, I am having this problem on an Audi A6 02 and am at wits end. What is the mileage you are getting on the tires?

• Re: 2001 A6 2.7 balancing/wheel/tire problems [donslook]

  Written by: jazzmbm on Jun 30, 2005 11:45:19 AM

  Hi I have an Audi A6 3.0 and have had tire/balance, and wheel problems since I purchased vehicle. I am at my wits end. I have 38000 miles on the car. First set of tires all four at 22000 miles were completely shot with steel showing through the sides. Those tires were rotated front to the back early on before having to replace all four. Well as it happens 13,000 later, ... Read More

• Re: 2000 Audi A6 2.7T Airbag/Wiring Problem [marleybarr]

  Written by: duffy4 on Jun 22, 2005 7:36:03 PM

  don't do it. I had that light go on and off for 4 years I owned my 2001 a6 2.7. It usually would go on when my wife was in the passenger seat and my kids thought it was funny. It would go off after a few minutes or later that day. It is not worth $800 to fix

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Mark A6 3.2 Tip - incoming . . [rayainsw]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 21, 2005 8:07:07 AM

  In any current car from any of the LPS companies (BMW ONLY excluded) the only choice is an auto. I fully expect some "tip" lag from the Audi. I also expected it from the Infiniti. This is different from saying I "like it" or I "want it" -- I do know how to somewhat to mostly mitigate it. I didn't want a BMW 5 series x or non-x. The US transmissions ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• 2001 Audi A6 2.8 - Should I buy extended warranty

  Written by: jluthra on Jun 9, 2005 3:55:17 PM

  I have a 2.8 A6 and have 49.2K miles and warranty ends at 50K. Should I buy the warranty? Also, can anyone offer advice on what I should insist on getting replaced during the 50K service besides the serpentine belt? How about the timin belt. My brakes seem to be still in good shape as the dealer said you only need to replace when the light goes on? Is he yanking ... Read More

• Re: 2001 a6 2.8 oil consumption [duffy4]

  Written by: jluthra on Jun 9, 2005 2:49:27 PM

  I have a 2001 A6 2.8 also. I only had to put in oil at about 4100 miles once at about 44,000 miles. The AUDI service advisor told me this is normal for this car to burn some oil. I told him he was full of it and asked him why an AUDI that was rated top 10 by consumer reports would need to have oil added 4K after an oil ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Spinning along. . .

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 3, 2005 8:16:49 AM

  All good points, all hit some target's bulls-eye. This report showing Audi has slipped to the bottom of the heap has to be particularly galling (to Audi and its most loyal fans) no matter how we try to spin it. Were I a completely objective observer (I'm not) and at least somewhat aware of the concepts of "retailing" (I'm at least an amateur at this), I would think that the Audi ... Read More

Audi A6

• Installing CD changer

  Written by: kohan on May 31, 2005 12:04:20 PM

  I just purchased an 2001 Audi A6 with the bose symphony (I think) sound system. it does not havew a factory installed cdchanger in the trunk but the bose unit does have the button to activate it. I need to know if my car has the required wiring harness factory intalled and where to find it? I opened the hatch where the changer would be mounted but did not see any ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• A6 cam seal leakage

  Written by: a6woes on May 25, 2005 10:31:40 PM

  I have a 2001 A6 2.8 L that has just under 36k miles. I had it in the shop the other day, and the mechanic told me that I was leaking oil from the cam seals. I've had my share of electrical problems under warranty with various systems (alarm system, airbags, seatbelts, ...), but now I timed out of my factory warranty. Not to mention damaging the flimsy front bumper assembly ... Read More

Audi A6

• re: I drove the M35x [jeqq]

  Written by: markcincinnati on May 1, 2005 8:53:29 PM

  I am not anti-Audi, or anti-Audi's new A6. I am disappointed with Audis go to market strategy insofar as it apparently affected me with respect to the "value proposition" or TOC (total ownership cost -- and based on the Business Week article I was interviewed for, NOT alone in this regard). Indeed despite my newfound affection for the Infiniti M35X, I would have paid [a little bit] more for the Audi ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2001 a6 2.8 oil consumption [jstadler]

  Written by: marleybarr on May 6, 2005 8:14:41 AM

  My A6 has gone up to 8000 miles w/o burning 1 quart of oil. Would say that 2 quarts in 4000 miles is NOT average at all. Having the oil light go on is a very serious matter and could lead to thousands of dollars damage for your engine! If this happens, shut the vehicle off immediately and check all fluids. I check oil, brake, power steering (hydraulic), coolant, and windshield ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: Sport [esf]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Apr 27, 2005 7:31:10 AM

  I do not have any argument with your conclusions and historically I would have found your comments pertaining to Audi as "the value leader" to be dead on. Moreover, I often found that the Audi was the leader regardless of price. I have used this true example but it does serve to paint the picture, then and now: I purchased (leased) my second Audi A6 4.2 (a 2001) in December 2000. ... Read More

Audi A6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• A6 lease experience

  Written by: marial on Apr 25, 2005 6:16:32 PM

  In 2001, my husband and I ballooned a year-old A6 2.7T (we originally wanted to buy it but the salesman convinced us to lease it instead). It had about 27,000 Miles on it and we got it for 34,5. It had a 17K risidual at the end of 4 years and a $530 monthly payment, 15,000 miles per year. A couple days after we signed that agreement, they called us back ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: Sport [rangerwalker]

  Written by: ctorrey on Apr 14, 2005 9:15:28 AM

  $53k for the 3.2! Ugh! That's what my A6 4.2 MSRP's for in 2001! Sure there are some nice gadgets (my A6 didn't have Nav) in the new model, but the pricing is just getting out of hand. I guess the same can be said for BMW & MB (try pricing out a moderately equipped 545i or E500 - you're closing in on $70k in some cases). I'm curious to see ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Bumper problems?

  Written by: kirby2010 on Apr 5, 2005 2:39:31 AM

  On of my friends traded in his Chrysler mini-van for a Honda Odyssey last fall. Coincidentally I picked him up for golf on the Saturday after his picked up the new van and there he was standing in the garage door, clubs in hand, next to the new van with a soccer-ball sized dent in the rear hatch - right next the the door latch. You'll never guess what happened. The ... Read More

• Glad I leased

  Written by: baldwin3 on Apr 3, 2005 4:15:28 PM

  When I took delivery of the Audi A6 turbo in January 2001, I had a car that Car and Driver hailed as top dog even over BMW 5, Volvo and several others. Four years later, I was delighted to turn it in and go back to Nissan....a Murano which I love. In the four years, on warranty, I had: AM radio failure Cracked radiator overflow tank resulting in fluid all over ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: $55K Sport Luxury Comparision [hpowders]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Apr 3, 2005 3:41:12 PM

  Until money is no object, I find C&D's inclusion based on price quite valid indeed. My 2001 A6 4.2 sport cost within a few dollars the same as my friend's 2001 BMW 530 (they were both right at $50K MSRP). Why NOT evaluate the cars based on the cost as "A" factor. Why not, then, evaluate the cars based on all RWD or AWD or FWD or the color blue? MSRP ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Serpentine Belt?

  Written by: kirby2010 on Mar 26, 2005 2:46:11 AM

  Anyone have first hand experience with the replacement of the serpentine belt on their A6? I have the 2001 2.7T -- very happy with it and the dealer. Coming up on four years and 60K miles. I was considering a trade this year (partially to avoid the high cost of the 60K maintenance) but I really enjoy the Audi.

Audi A6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Audi A6: Prices Paid & Buying Experience [KarenS]

  Written by: rayman31 on Mar 11, 2005 11:48:05 AM

  I bought a 2001 A6 in July 2001. I paid $0 down and leased it for $499/month for 48 months... 10,000 miles annually allowed. In looking to replace this car (as July 2005 is quickly coming up) - I have found NO viable alternatives... What is going on? What happened to the $0 down leases? What happened to a car for $500/month??? I am really having a difficult time with this ... Read More

Audi A6

• Re: bmw 530 [cablue]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Mar 8, 2005 7:07:12 PM

  I had both a 2000 A6 4.2 and a 2001 A6 4.2 sport. My comparison was with my sport suspension equipped A6 V8. The price comparison, NOT the model designation was the basis of my story. I was not and if I did, did not mean to suggest that an Audi A8 was comparably priced with a 530 Bimmer. The common assumption was that there were 3 models of the Audi ... Read More

• bmw 530

  Written by: cablue on Mar 8, 2005 6:21:35 PM

  Mark: I bought a bmw 530 in 2001. I was comparing it to the Audi A6 2.7t at the time. The A8 was not a comparable price to the 530. My car has the sport, premium, etc...Also, I do get the free maintenance. It has 49,000 miles now with not one problem, except the cupholders. But, in 2001 I was going to get the Audi, but in several months from then, ... Read More

• Re: The Pendulum Swings....constantly. [richcream]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Mar 8, 2005 1:26:19 PM

  If by purchase you mean buying it in cash -- then I need to clarify. If I "believed in" purchasing in cash, perhaps my sentiments would be different. My issue is -- I do not see the value in a significantly higher monthly payment on a lease. It is either an indication of poor resale (the residual is low) or of a non-competitive money factor. In a world called "virtually equal" ... Read More

Audi A6 Maintenance and Repair

• Reliability of the 4.2 Engine requested

  Written by: civic4 on Feb 26, 2005 5:23:23 AM

  I have read posts that have commented on the reliability of the 2.8, the 2.7T and the 3.0, but how is the 4.2 engine holding up for Audi owners. We have a 2001 A6, still under powertrain warranty with 43,000 miles and were wondering how these particular engines hold up as more miles are accumulated on them. Also, any other reliability issues any owners have had on the A6 4.2 would ... Read More

• Re: Purchasing a 2001 A6 2.8 [denlai]

  Written by: gmseagle on Feb 22, 2005 6:12:21 AM

  Totally agree with other posters that you should consider a 2.7T. (Wish they still made it as will be in the market later this year for a new car.) If you are seeking more performance and fun, than go for it. However, buy it from a dealer that will certify it as "audi assured". It is well worth the additional money to gain the extended warranty. Bought a used (off lease) ... Read More