🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

A6 S6 RS6

Model Code:

4B (including 4B2, 4B4, 4B5, 4B6, 4BH)

Year:

2003

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium mid-size luxury sedan and performance variants, positioned against competitors like BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Jaguar XJ.

Competitive Analysis:

The Audi A6 (C5 platform) in 2003 represented a strong contender in the executive luxury segment, offering advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive, refined interiors, and sophisticated styling. The S6 variant provided enhanced performance, while the RS6 was a high-performance homologation special, known for its potent twin-turbo V8 engine and aggressive styling.

Key Features:

Quattro all-wheel-drive system, advanced MMI infotainment interface (later iterations), high-quality interior materials, robust build quality, and potent engine options ranging from efficient V6 to high-output V8 performance variants.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and variants of the Audi A6, S6, and RS6 produced for the 2003 model year, across all internal chassis designations (4B, 4B2, 4B4, 4B5, 4B6, 4BH).

Page Count:

16401

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Information, Accessories & Equipment, Audio/Visual/Telematics, Brakes, Driveline Axle, Electrical Systems, Lighting, Restraint Systems, Steering, Suspension, Body & Frame (Interior & Exterior), Mechanical Engine, Transmission, Tires & Wheels, HVAC, Wiring Diagrams, and significantly more.

Procedures Included:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting guides, replacement and adjustment procedures for all major vehicle systems and components.

Technical Depth:

Extremely high technical depth, covering everything from routine maintenance and basic repairs to advanced diagnostics, component overhauls, and complete system rebuilds. Includes detailed schematics and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text

Compatibility:

Compatible with all Windows and Mac operating systems.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRar.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for professional printing of individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) - Printable

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine A6:

2.8L V6 (AAH, ACK, ALG, AMX, APR, AQD) / 3.7L V8 (BFL)

Performance A6:

190-260 hp depending on engine variant.

Primary Engine S6:

4.2L V8 (AQJ, ARU)

Performance S6:

340 hp @ 6600 rpm; 317 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm

Primary Engine Rs6:

4.2L V8 Twin-Turbocharged (BCY)

Performance Rs6:

450 hp @ 6000 rpm; 414 lb-ft @ 1950 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic ECU (specific variant dependent)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission A6 S6:

5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (01V)

Optional Transmission A6 S6:

6-speed Manual Transmission (GGU, FXX) for certain A6 models

Standard Transmission Rs6:

5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (01X)

Transmission Features:

Tiptronic automatic shifting for manual control, permanent Quattro all-wheel-drive system with Torsen center differential.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

G 052 162 A2 (Audi Synthetic ATF)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

G 052 171 A2 (Audi Manual Gear Oil)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2832 mm (111.5 in)

Length:

4813 mm (189.5 in) for A6/S6, 4846 mm (190.8 in) for RS6

Width:

1785 mm (70.3 in) for A6/S6, 1807 mm (71.1 in) for RS6

Height:

1474 mm (58.0 in) for A6/S6, 1420 mm (55.9 in) for RS6

Curb Weight:

1600-1750 kg (3527-3858 lbs) for A6, 1820 kg (4012 lbs) for S6, 1865 kg (4112 lbs) for RS6

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112 mm

Typical Tire Sizes:

215/55 R16, 225/55 R16, 235/45 R17, 255/40 R18 (RS6 specific)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Not explicitly stated for 2003 model year, but generally considered good for the era.

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Not explicitly stated for 2003 model year, but generally considered good for the era.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, optional front and rear head curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control (ASR).

Active Safety Features:

Electronic Stability Program (ESP/ASR), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Quattro all-wheel-drive.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Audi Chorus or Symphony audio systems, with optional Navigation system and early forms of Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers.

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth preparation (via aftermarket modules or specific OEM kits), CD changer compatibility.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil recommended)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for 30-valve 2.8L V6 and 4.2L V8 engines; belt-driven camshafts). Check specific engine for chain-driven variants.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (for iridium spark plugs)

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 standards.

Coolant Specification:

G 12 Plus (Pink) or G 12 EVO (Purple) Antifreeze/Coolant

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 Plus for enhanced performance)

Known Issues Common:

Ignition coil failures, PCV system issues leading to oil leaks, front control arm bushings wear, CAN gateway module failures, radiator support issues, coolant flange leaks, ABS wheel speed sensor failures, CV joint wear.

Known Issues Performance:

RS6 specific: Twin-turbo system component reliability, potential for oil consumption, intercooler system issues. S6 specific: More robust but still subject to typical V8 maintenance items.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Audi, a German automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century, is renowned for its engineering excellence, Quattro all-wheel-drive technology, and luxurious vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The 2003 model year represents the latter part of the C5 generation (1997-2004) for the Audi A6. This generation saw significant advancements in design, technology, and performance, with the introduction of the potent S6 and the ultra-high-performance RS6 models.

Production Location:

Ingolstadt, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognition Awards:

The C5 A6 platform generally received positive reviews for its build quality, refinement, and the effectiveness of its Quattro system. Specific awards for the 2003 model year vary by region and trim, but it was consistently ranked among the top in its luxury segment.