Positioning:
Premium Executive Sedan and Performance Sedan segment.
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type, Volvo S80.
A6 Features:
Sophisticated styling, comfortable ride, advanced technology, Quattro all-wheel drive.
S6 Features:
Enhanced performance over A6, sport-tuned suspension, larger engine, distinctive styling cues.
Rs6 Features:
High-performance variant, significantly more powerful engine (twin-turbo V8), aggressive styling, advanced braking and suspension systems, exclusive to certain markets (e.g., RS6 Plus).
Cost Saving:
Enables owners to perform repairs and maintenance themselves, saving on labor costs at dealerships or independent shops.
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Delivery Method:
Instant Email Delivery
Models Covered:
All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types
Engine:
Engine Mechanical (including V8, V8 Bi-Turbo), Engine Management Systems (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (Tiptronic), Manual Transmission, Drive Axles, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, ESP), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Navigation System, Climate Control System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors, Seats), Vehicle Electrical Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement, Interior Component Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing Procedures, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Part Numbers for common components
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system diagnostics and body repair procedures.
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (free download)
Printability:
Printable (single pages, chapters, or entire manual)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable due to PDF format.
Device Compatibility:
PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones
A6 Engine Options:
2.4L V6 (165-170 hp), 2.7L V6 (177-180 hp), 2.8L V6 (190-204 hp), 4.2L V8 (300 hp)
S6 Engine:
4.2L V8 (300 hp)
Rs6 Engine:
4.2L V8 Bi-Turbo (450 hp)
Rs6 0 60 Mph:
Approximately 4.6 seconds (depending on specific model year and transmission).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for naturally aspirated engines, Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI) for twin-turbo engines.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended).
Engine Code Examples:
AFC (2.4 V6), ACK (2.8 V6), BBK (4.2 V8), BCY (4.2 V8 Bi-Turbo)
A6 Transmission Standard:
5-speed Manual (e.g., 01A), 5-speed Automatic (e.g., 01V)
A6 Transmission Optional:
6-speed Manual (certain variants), Tiptronic Automatic Transmission
S6 Transmission:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission
Rs6 Transmission:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (e.g., 01X)
Quattro AWD:
Standard on most models, especially S6 and RS6. Provides permanent all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and handling. Often uses a Torsen center differential.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 110.7 inches (2812 mm)
Length:
Approximately 193.4 inches (4912 mm)
Width:
Approximately 71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
Approximately 57.2 inches (1453 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3500 - 4200 lbs (1588 - 1905 kg), varying significantly by engine and trim.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally rated well for its era, often 4-star or 5-star for driver and passenger frontal impact.
IIHS Side Impact:
Good or Acceptable, depending on specific model year and equipment.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (also known as ESP or DSC) available, particularly on higher trims and later years.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags and head curtain airbags often optional or standard on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning front seatbelts with load limiters.
Audio System:
Available with premium Bose sound systems, CD players, and cassette decks. Navigation systems were optional and advanced for their time.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) was not widely available on this generation.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free kits or car phone integration were available on later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult specific model year recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For V6 engines, typically around 75,000-105,000 miles or 5-7 years. V8 engines typically use timing chains which are generally maintenance-free unless issues arise.
Engine Oil Type:
API SL or SM, SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30, depending on model and climate. Check for specific VW/Audi approvals (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 504 00).
Coolant Type:
G12 or G12+ Pink Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol-based). Always use a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
G 052 162 (e.g., for Tiptronic 01L, 01V). Specific type depends on transmission code. Some may require ATF Dexron III equivalent. Periodic fluid and filter changes are recommended.
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (Pentosin CHF 11S) or equivalent.
Common Issues:
PCV system issues leading to oil leaks and increased oil consumption, ignition coil failures, coolant flange leaks (especially on V6 engines), ABS sensor failures, door lock actuator failures, window regulator failures, power steering hose leaks, camshaft seal leaks, timing belt tensioner issues.
Rs6 Specific Issues:
Turbocharger reliability concerns if maintenance is neglected, CV joint failures due to high torque, DRC suspension issues (Hydraulic damping system).
Audi Legacy:
Audi has a long history of producing sophisticated, technologically advanced vehicles, known for Quattro all-wheel drive and engineering prowess.
C5 Generation:
The C5 generation Audi A6 (introduced in 1997 in Europe, 1998 in North America) represented a significant step forward in design and technology for Audi. It featured a more aerodynamic and flowing design compared to its predecessor.
S6 Introduction:
The S6 model was introduced as the performance variant of the A6, featuring the V8 engine and sportier enhancements.
Rs6 Introduction:
The RS6 (Typ 4B) was a homologation special and the pinnacle of performance for the C5 platform, developed by Audi's quattro GmbH. It was first introduced for the 2002 model year and offered a much higher performance envelope.
Production Period:
1997-2004 (for C5 generation).
Manufacturing:
Primarily assembled in Germany (Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm).
Car And Driver Best:
Audi A6 models were frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during the late 1990s and early 2000s, praised for their handling, technology, and refined interiors.
Motor Trend Best:
The A6 also received positive reviews and awards from MotorTrend and other automotive publications for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology.
