Segment:
Executive Sport Sedan
Key Differentiator:
Performance-oriented luxury sedan, blending Audi's renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system with potent V8 power.
Direct Competitors:
BMW 540i (E39), Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG (W210), Lexus GS430.
Performance Focus:
Designed for spirited driving with a powerful engine and sophisticated chassis.
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, advanced features for its era, and a comfortable ride.
Aim:
To provide technicians and owners with comprehensive information for accurate diagnostics, maintenance, and repair, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Repair and Service for Audi S6 (C5) models from 1999-2003
Specific Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Fuel System, Ignition, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Electrical System, Bodywork
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed, extensive content exceeding typical manual limitations, likely hundreds of pages in print equivalent.
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, disassembly/assembly, cylinder head, engine block, crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, valves, timing system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, intake system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveshafts, differential, axle components.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems, steering components, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers), hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, battery, fuses, relays, interior and exterior electrical components, control modules.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation.
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belt mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, tune-ups, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing individual components and sub-assemblies.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized Audi tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code:
APB (for 2000-2003 MY, 4.2L V8); AKB/AJK/ARY (for 2.7L V6 Twin-Turbo in early models, though S6 typically denotes V8).
Engine Type:
4.2L V8 (Naturally Aspirated, DOHC, 40 valves)
Horsepower:
Approximately 340 hp @ 6600 rpm (for 4.2L V8)
Torque:
Approximately 317 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (for 4.2L V8)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Coolant Type:
G12 (or equivalent G12+ Purple coolant)
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3/B4 certified.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.7 liters (8.1 US quarts) with filter change.
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic or similar advanced electronic engine control unit.
Transmission Type:
Tiptronic 5-speed automatic transmission.
Manual Option:
While not explicitly stated for the S6 for these years, some Audi models had manual options. The manual indicates coverage for various transmissions.
Drivetrain:
quattro Permanent All-Wheel Drive
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Audi/VW G 052 162 A2 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)
Crash Test Information:
Specific ratings for this era are less standardized than modern tests; refer to period Euro NCAP or NHTSA data if available. Known for robust build quality.
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), integrated with ABS.
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side airbags.
Seat Belts:
Pretensioning front seat belts, three-point rear seat belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For models with a timing belt (check specific engine: APB is chain-driven, early models might have belt), interval typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (or Pentosin CHF 11S)
Coolant:
G12 or G12+ (Purple) for optimal protection.
Coil Packs:
Ignition coil packs can be a common failure point, leading to misfires.
ABS Sensors:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS and traction control warnings.
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings and tie rod ends may wear over time due to the weight and performance nature of the vehicle.
Timing Chain Tensioners:
For 4.2L V8 (APB engine), timing chain tensioners and guides are known wear items that require proactive inspection and potential replacement.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
MAF sensor can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy.
Audi Performance Legacy:
Audi has a long history of performance and motorsport success, particularly with its quattro all-wheel-drive system, dating back to the Audi quattro rally cars.
C5 Generation Introduction:
The C5 platform (Typ 4B) was introduced in 1997, with the S6 model replacing the previous S6 (C4) in 1999, marking a significant technological and design update.
Production Period:
The C5 S6 was produced from 1999 to 2004.
Manufacturing Location:
Ingolstadt, Germany
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The C5 platform in general, and performance variants like the S6, were often lauded for their driving dynamics and luxury, frequently appearing on lists of desirable vehicles.
European Car Of The Year Nominee:
The A6 platform upon which the S6 is based received critical acclaim and numerous awards during its production run.
