Name: Audi A6 (2011 to 2018) | Expert Rating | The Car Expert
Item: Audi A6
Rating: 54.0

Summary

The Audi A6 is a large executive vehicle available in saloon and estate (called Avant) body styles. This is the fourth-generation model, which first arrived in 2011. After a mid-life facelift in 2015, this A6 iteration was replaced by the current model in 2018.

In usual Audi fashion, top-spec performance versions of the A6 saloon and estate were called the S6. There was also the A6 allroad quattro model, which had a beefed-up estate body and improved ground clearance for off-road driving. Finally, the performance-focused RS 6 Avant completed the range, but that’s not covered on this page.

Available with a choice of several petrol and diesel engines, the fourth-generation A6 consistently received good to very good scores from the UK media during its time on sale – praised by Top Gear for its “unarguably lovely” interior which was both practical and sophisticated, and commended by Auto Trader for its “refined and really economical engines”.

While Audi S6 models also garnered praise for their straight-line speed and driving dynamics, the performance of the standard A6 models did not excite reviewers to the same extent, as a few motoring outlets suggested that the A6 wasn’t as engaging as some of its upmarket saloon rivals.

“If you’re in the market for an economical, spacious and quietly gratifying car then the Audi A6 is highly recommended”, concluded Autocar‘s Matt Saunders. “Those seeking a more engaging and rewarding drive should perhaps opt for the equivalent BMW 5 Series.”

As of October 2024, the fourth-generation Audi A6 holds a Used Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of just 53%. Although it scores top marks for its low CO₂ emissions and its media review scores are good, the rest of its scores are poor. Running costs are high, its reliability record is very poor and its safety rating is long out of date.

A6 highlights

Well-built upmarket interior
Plenty of safety features
Refined and economical engines

A6 lowlights

Mercedes-Benz E-Class had more boot space
Larger wheel options hinder ride comfort
Not as engaging as some rivals

Key specifications

Body style: Large saloon and estate
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £30,985 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2011
Last updated: Spring 2015
Replaced: Summer 2018

Image gallery

Media reviews

Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express+

Model reviewed: Avant (2011-18)
Score: 8 / 10
“Not the most engaging to drive, but the Audi A6 Avant is one of the biggest and most efficient premium estates.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“In the battle for supremacy in the corporate car park, the Audi A6 is a great choice. Its understated style, classy interior and host of tech on board make it a saloon car to aspire to.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8.2 / 10
“The Audi A6 Avant is a large executive estate car with great performance and practicality, along with surprising economy.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Ultra
Score: 8 / 10
“Driven carefully, this unassuming Audi A6 estate is potentially a real efficiency hero, and should appeal to cost-conscious private buyers and fleet managers alike.”
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Model reviewed: S6
Score: 6 / 10
“The Audi S6 looks classy, sounds great and is a likeable car despite not having the most impressive chassis in its class.”
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Model reviewed: Avant Ultra
Score: 10 / 10
“Eco makeover transforms Audi A6 Avant Ultra estate, making it better than ever.”
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Model reviewed: S Line
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi A6 S line adds sporty looks and plenty of equipment, but stiff suspension is no good.”
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Model reviewed: Ultra (2014)
Score: 8 / 10
“Flagship Audi A6 Ultra saloon sets bar high with quality build and impressive drive.”
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Model reviewed: Ultra
“The Audi A6 Ultra is a solid, refined, luxury car.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi’s executive saloon is better than it has ever been, and is set to take the market by storm.”
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Model reviewed: 3.0 TDI S-line
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi’s all-new A6 is quicker, more agile and better quality than ever before.”
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Auto Trader+

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 saloon is more comfortable than the BMW 5 Series, but less fun to drive. It’s packed with impressive technology, including in-car Wi-Fi.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 7.8 / 10
“The Audi A6 is an excellent executive car – supremely refined, very spacious and available with some really economical engines that make it very appealing to company car drivers.”
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Autocar+

Model reviewed: S6
Score: 8 / 10
“Outstanding all-season ability and impressive everyday practicality, but lacking intimacy on challenging roads and beginning to show its age in certain areas.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 rises higher than any model before it and is now a real contender in the mid-size exec market.”
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Model reviewed: Avant 2.0 TDI Ultra
Score: 8 / 10
“If you’re in the market for an economical, spacious and quietly gratifying car then this variant of the Audi A6 is highly recommended.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Avant
“The new Audi A6 Avant doesn’t have quite the load-carrying ability of rivals, but it’s a frugal, decent drive.”
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Model reviewed: 3.0 TDI quattro 2011
“The Audi A6 has much to recommend for quality, value and economy – it just lacks dynamic polish.”
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Business Car+

Model reviewed: 3.0 TDI SE Quattro S-tronic
Score: 8 / 10
“The quattro version of the A6 driven here is the best example of how far Audi, and the car industry, has come in the past seven years.”
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Car+

Model reviewed: S6 Avant
Score: 8 / 10
“No massive changes then, but the S6 Avant remains a rapid, refined and very likable superwagon.”
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Model reviewed: S6 (2015)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S6 remains a very likable car. Interior quality is still deeply impressive and that engine is really quite special.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Ultra (2015)
Score: 8 / 10
“A subtle round of updates for a subtle car but all of them well worthwhile, keeping the Audi A6 fighting fit against its 5-series nemesis.”
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Model reviewed: Ultra
Score: 6 / 10
“The Audi A6 Ultra has an impressive set of numbers, from its list price, mpg, C02 and spec; but it’s not particularly fun or satisfying to drive.”
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Model reviewed: Allroad (2012)
Score: 8 / 10
“It might be a bit flashier than the previous two generations, but the Allroad is a superb all-rounder for those rich country types, and less gauche than an SUV.”
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Model reviewed: S6 Avant (2012)
Score: 8 / 10
“In terms of pure fun, the S6 is easily beaten, but as an all-weather performance workhorse, few cars can compete.”
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Car Keys+

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The A6 is Audi’s lavish saloon cruiser that mixes interior luxury with intriguing power and driving dynamics.”
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Model reviewed: Avant
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 Avant is an attractive, practical and sophisticated car with lots of space and some impressive diesel engines.”
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Model reviewed: S6 4.0 TFSI quattro
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S6 Quattro is a carefully worked-out car for people who carefully work things out.”
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Carbuyer+

Model reviewed: S Line
“The Audi A6 S line is the best trim to go for in the range. Its diesel engines are all economical and it costs less than similarly equipped rivals.”
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Carwow+

Model reviewed:
Score: 7 / 10
“It may be getting on a bit, but the Audi A6’s interior quality is top notch, with squidgy plastics and expensive trim pieces on show everywhere you care to cast your eyes – it feels and looks expensive.”
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Evo+

Model reviewed: S6
Score: 7 / 10
“The new Audi S6 swaps its predecessor’s thirsty V10 engine for a 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that combines strong performance with decent fuel economy – but can it deliver thrills?”
Read review

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 offers a beautiful interior, mighty turbodiesels, comfort, refinement and space.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0 TFSI Quattro
Score: 7 / 10
“Big petrols are a very minority taste in mid-sized execs like the A6 these days, but the V6 TFSI motor is a gem thanks to its combination of stodgy, diesel-like low-down torque and an appetite for revs that would make any older TDI driver feel nostalgic.”
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Fleetworld+

Model reviewed: S line 2.0 TDI ultra
“With low running costs and no sacrifices for the end user, the A6 ultra means even executive-level employees can contribute to carbon reductions without giving up creature comforts.”
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Green Car Guide+

Model reviewed: Avant 2.0 TDI (2016)
Score: 9 / 10
“If you’re looking for a large, stylish, and economical executive estate, then the Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TDI, capable of 56.5 mpg, should fit the bill.”
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Heycar+

Model reviewed: Avant
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A6 Avant is a strong contender in the large estate car market. It’s a bit more stylish than some rivals, has a sophisticated image, a brilliant interior and a competitive diesel engine.”
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Model reviewed: Allroad (2012-18)
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi has always pitched the A6 Allroad – its all-terrain version of the A6 Avant – as an alternative to a full size 4×4. And it certainly looks the part.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A6 is a bit more stylish than some of its rivals, has an upmarket image, a classy interior and a competitive diesel engine.”
Read review

Honest John+

Model reviewed: S6
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S6 offers a refined ride for a performance car and effortless performance from the 4.0-litre V8 engine.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The A6 Avant isn’t an overly exciting car to drive – enthusiasts will prefer the BMW 5 Series Touring – but it is a thoroughly capable and confident one.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“Impressive cabin with a straightforward layout. Very quiet and refined on the move.”
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Motoring Research+

Model reviewed: S6 (2015)
“Ultimately, the S6 just lacks the drama you’d want after blowing a heap of cash on a powerful V8 super saloon.”
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Model reviewed: (2015)
“The 2015 Audi A6 may not look much different, but it’s more efficient and faster than before, making it more competitive against the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.”
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Motors.co.uk+

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“Brought to the market in 2011, the Mk IV A6 came with a longer wheelbase, an even sleeker design and a raft of safety systems that has helped move the A6 to the forefront of the executive saloon sector.”
Read review

Parkers+

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S6 comes with a rather boisterous 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 450hp and, while this is smaller than the 5.2-litre V10 engine found in the previous S6 car, it’s actually more powerful – producing 18hp more.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Avant
Score: 8.2 / 10
“Top quality premium Audi A6 Avant estate offers high mpg or huge performance.”
Read review

Model reviewed:
Score: 7.6 / 10
“The A6 is similar to the A4 and the A8 and although it’s not ugly, it’s not going to wow you as a design classic.”
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The Sun+

Model reviewed: Avant Ultra S Line
“The biggest compliment you can pay this Ultra is that it doesn’t feel much different to the standard engines. It might be a four-cylinder but you still think you’re driving a 3litre V6.”
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Model reviewed: Avant
“The Audi A6 Avant boasts outstanding fuel economy and best-in-class company car benefits.”
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The Sunday Times+

Model reviewed: Allroad 3.0 TDI quattro
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi 6 Allroad is the Lara Croft of load-luggers.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Allroad Quattro
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 Allroad Quattro is an immensely likeable estate car with ‘lite’ off-road ability.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S6 (2012)
Score: 8 / 10
“The S6 is a good, well-judged car that would make a great deal of sense in Italy. Here in Britain, however, it will be bought and driven extremely badly by people you wouldn’t want round for dinner.”
Read review

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“At last, an Audi A6 that’s as good as a BMW or a Merc.”
Read review

The Telegraph+

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“Handsomely styled and beautifully built, it also promises very low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions if you go for the Ultra model.”
Read review

Model reviewed:
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A6 is a very capable and competent executive car choice. Spacious, comfortable and classy, it’s also very affordable to run if you choose the Ultra model.”
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Top Gear+

Model reviewed: S6 Avant
Score: 7 / 10
“The S6 Avant is supremely fast, very comfortable, clean and relatively efficient.”
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Model reviewed: S6 TFSI Quattro 4dr S Tronic
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi makes a great case for itself if you want comfortable, crushing pace with a bombproof interior.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Ultra S Line 4dr
Score: 7 / 10
“The mildly facelifted Audi A6 comes with a highly economical four-cylinder diesel engine and front-wheel drive.”
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Model reviewed: S6
“The Audi S6 is an unarguably lovely product, and the materials and cabin tech have upped the everyday-premium game to new levels of luxury.”
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What Car?+

Model reviewed: Ultra 2.0 TDI (2014)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 has always trailed the BMW 5 Series in dynamic ability, but this new Ultra engine is incredibly smooth and refined for a four-cylinder diesel.”
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Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A6 has always been a stylish and luxurious executive car, and this 2011 version does not buck that trend. Moreover, it substantially improves on previous models by being lighter and therefore better to drive and to ride in, plus it’s more efficient and easier on the pocket.”
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Model reviewed: S6
“Given the Audi S6’s impressive refinement, brutal pace and sumptuous interior, you’re hardly settling for something that doesn’t feel worth the money.”
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Model reviewed: Avant Ultra
“The A6 Avant Ultra is one of the most accomplished cars that Audi makes – and that’s some achievement when you consider that the A6 is now more than three years old. “
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Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: August 2011
Date expired: January 2018
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 91%
Child protection: 83%
Vulnerable road users: 41%
Safety assist: 86%

Notes on safety rating

The fourth-generation Audi A6 was originally tested by Euro NCAP back in 2011 and awarded a five-star safety rating. However, this rating expired in January 2018 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for this rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used Audi A6 to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The fourth-generation Audi A6 was not tested by Green NCAP during its production life as it pre-dated the organisation.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 507
Average repair cost: £1099.67
Last updated: October 2024

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

As of October 2024, the Audi A6 has a very poor reliability score of just 29%, according to exclusive warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers this fourth-generation model as well as both newer (2018 onwards) and previous (pre-2011) versions.

The most common problems with the A6 to date relate to its electrical system, with an average repair bill of more than £400. Engine problems are very expensive, with an average repair bill of about £1,800, and are worryingly common. Gearbox repair bills are also hugely expensive at about £3,000, while other repair bills are all on the expensive side as well.

If you’re looking at a used Audi A6, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	37 mpg	D	29 – 40 mpg	D – E
Diesel models	45 mpg	C	35 – 52 mpg	B – D
Plug-in hybrid models	208 mpg	A	141 – 235 mpg	A – A

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	172 g/km	C	162 – 218 g/km	C – D
Diesel models	166 g/km	C	142 – 210 g/km	B – D
Plug-in hybrid models	31 g/km	A	27 – 45 g/km	A – A

Battery range	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Plug-in hybrid models	41 miles	D	29 – 43 miles	D – E

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	39	C	30 – 50	C – F

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£306	C
Year 2	£801	C
Year 3	£1,321	C
Year 4	£1,600	C
Year 5	£2,070	C
Overall	£6,098	C

The Audi A6 is a relatively expensive car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Fuel consumption on petrol models is relatively poor, while diesel models are average – although that’s not unexpected given the size and luxury of the A6. Servicing costs were average during the car’s early years but, due to its age now, costs are likely to be quite variable depending on mileage and condition.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Audi A6

2022

2020

2019

2017

2015

2014

2013

Date: May 2022
Recall number: R/2022/132
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2012 to 03/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 4,690
Defect: The mesh size of the oil strainer in the oil supply for both turbochargers is too small.
Remedy: The oil strainer will be replaced with a revised version with a larger mesh size.

Date: June 2020
Recall number: R/2020/138
Model types: All
Build dates: 06/2017 to 03/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 34,982
Defect: It is possible that moisture may enter the belt-driven starter-alternator.
Remedy: The starter-alternator must be replaced on the affected vehicles.

Date: June 2019
Recall number: R/2019/175
Model types: All
Build dates: 12/2015 to 12/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 135
Defect: Hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
Remedy: The hinge module for the towing bracket must be checked and replaced if required.

Date: March 2019
Recall number: R/2019/099
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2014 to 09/2016
Number of vehicles affected: 2,763
Defect: It is possible that fuel may escape from one or both fuel rails (low-pressure side).
Remedy: The fuel rails for the low-pressure side of both cylinder banks must be replaced on the affected vehicles.

Date: February 2019
Recall number: R/2019/060
Model types: All
Build dates: 07/2014 to 10/2014
Number of vehicles affected: 4,907
Defect: The auxiliary heater element connection in the air conditioner may fail.
Remedy: Check the auxiliary heater connector and replace the element if required.

Date: May 2017
Recall number: R/2017/115
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2011 to 10/2016
Number of vehicles affected: 2,844
Defect: Foreign particles in the engine coolant can lead to a blockage in the additional coolant pump and cause the pump to overheat.
Remedy: Recall the machines that are likely to be affected and update the software which will deactivate the additional coolant pump in the event of malfunction. If there has been a malfunction of the additional water pump it will be replaced.

Date: February 2017
Recall number: R/2017/078
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2016 to 10/2016
Number of vehicles affected: 2,622
Defect: Due to an error in the manufacturing process the airbag and/or seat belt pretensioner may not trigger in the event of a collision.
Remedy: On affected vehicles replace airbag assembly and seat belt pretensioner where necessary.

Date: April 2015
Recall number: R/2015/031
Model types: All
Build dates: 04/2011 to 04/2012
Number of vehicles affected: 1,073
Defect: Fuel may leak from the injector rails. Drivers may notice a smell of fuel and or evidence of a leak.
Remedy: On affected vehicles replace injector rails and seals.

Date: October 2014
Recall number: R/2014/098
Model types: All
Build dates: 01/2012 to 08/2014
Number of vehicles affected: 5,755
Defect: Engine oil may, in isolated instances, enter the brake servo via the vacuum feed line. This may cause the brake servo diaphragm to rupture and loss of brake servo assistance.
Remedy: Replace vacuum line on affected vehicles.

Date: October 2013
Recall number: R/2013/112
Model types: S6 models
Build dates: 01/2012 to 08/2013
Number of vehicles affected: 452
Defect: Due to manufacturing tolerance the fuel line may become damaged in individual cases and within a specific manufacturing period. In the worst case this can cause leakage.
Remedy: Recall the affected vehicles within the range quoted and replace the fuel line.

As of September 2024, there have been ten DVSA vehicle safety recalls on this generation of the Audi A6, covering a range of different issues.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used A6, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.