The Audi S6 is the entry-level performance luxury A6 model that aims to balance comfort, luxury, and sophistication with sportiness, dynamic driving, and larger engines. With subtle styling upgrades, the S6 does not scream performance car as opposed to the RS6 which is a lot more aggressive both in its driving style and its exterior appeal.
When it comes to reliability, it is difficult to say if the S6 is a reliable car or not because many factors contribute to how reliable a car is overall. We can say for certain that maintenance and mileage play a huge role in making a car reliable long-term. So much so that these are likely the essential two aspects of determining the overall dependability of any car.
The most common Audi S6 issues are associated with suspension, overheating, transmission, oil leaks/consumption, and various car electrical components. Most of these can be prevented through maintenance while others such as leaks and suspension issues are mostly down to how old the car is.
All in all, the S6 can be a reliable car if you treat it well enough. If you fail to do all the necessary maintenance whenever in need, the car will start malfunctioning. If you still fail to address those issues, your repair bills are likely going to grow exponentially.
Audi S6 – Suspension issues
According to many online sources that specialize in studying how reliable cars are, it seems like the suspension system on the S6 is one of the top complaints across multiple countries. Suspension bushings also seem to be the top complaint because they deteriorate with age and start emitting loud noises such as clunking or grinding, especially while going over road undulations.
The CV boots and joints also seem to be an issue because the boots are known to tear after a while. Audi specialists recommend that you inspect both your CV boots and joints whenever you service the car so you can catch the issue before it starts making any threats to your car’s overall health.
Audi S6 – Overheating issues
The Audi S6 bridges the gap between the ludicrous RS6 600hp super sports estate and the more regular A6. This means that the S6 gets various upgrades in order to cool down all the components that tend to heat up after a while. The most common issue associated with overheating is a failed thermostat that will need to be replaced.
The brakes are also known to cook if you step on the S6 hard enough because the brakes aren’t designed to withstand the abuse, especially on something like a race track. The water pump can sometimes cause issues because water pump issues are relatively common across many VAG products.
Audi S6 – Transmission issues
The Audi S6 comes with either a Tiptronic torque converter automatic for older S6 models or a more contemporary Audi S-Tronic dual-clutch unit. Older transmissions are known to leak transmission fuel through output shaft seals which can result in severe transmission damage.
Newer S-Tronic transmissions seem to be a lot more reliable but can sometimes feel really jittery and hesitant. There was even a class-action lawsuit against Audi in the US due to DSG troubles where many Audi cars including the S6 were experiencing issues with shaking and violent shuddering during gear changes.
Audi S6 – Oil leaks/oil consumption
It comes as no surprise that European luxury cars tend to burn oil more than most cars. This is because they often use larger, more powerful engines which simply need more juice than smaller engines do. However, the issue here can also be due to a leak which is sadly a common practice among many newer and older S6 models.
The gaskets and seals deteriorate over time, especially if constantly exposed to hot engine components. Be sure to pressure test the entire system to see if there are any leaks and always keep a quart or two of oil in your trunk so you can top it up whenever necessary.
Audi S6 – Electrical issues
The Audi S6 is a complex luxury car equipped with all sorts of electrical wizardry and features that make your daily life both easier and safer. However, many of these are prone to failure after a while because they are delicate and because of a severe lack of maintenance. The start/stop system is a known gripe with many Audi cars, including the S6.
Moreover, the infotainment system is also sometimes prone to bugging out and glitching. Bluetooth connectivity can be slow while certain functions such as the backup camera can be slow to respond or sometimes even not respond at all.
FAQ Section
Is the Audi S6 a good family car?
The Audi S6 is one of Audi’s best family cars money can get. The reason why is simple, the S6 offers lots of space for all occupants and the trunk space is equally as large. It is quiet, comfortable, luxurious, and safe which is why it is such a good family car.
The best A6 variant when it comes to family use is undoubtedly the Avant estate version which is the one you should get if you want to transport your family in the safest and most comfortable way possible. The S6 also gets lots of family-friendly features which are sure to satisfy all occupants.
How long can the Audi S6 last?
The Audi S6 can easily last a few hundred thousand miles without needing major overhauls if you take proper care of it. Many owners online are proud to say that they own S6 models with more than 300,000 miles on the clock which certainly is a lot.
We can’t say for certain how long the newest S6 models can last but considering that cars are steadily and continuously becoming more and more reliable, it is likely going to last just as long or even longer.
How fast is the Audi S6?
Audi claims that the S6 can reach 60mph from a standstill in about 4.4 seconds, but many journalists have tested the S6 to reach 60mph in just 4 seconds flat. The S6 gets a 444hp V6 engine which can reach a limited top speed of 155mph.
The S6 can also do a standing quarter-mile in around 12-12.5 seconds which is a really good number for a four-door family luxury car.
