Positioning:
High-performance luxury sedan, direct competitor to BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E-Class of its era.
Competitors:
BMW M5 (E39), Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG (W210).
Powertrain:
Naturally aspirated 4.2L V8 engine, Quattro all-wheel drive.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on refined performance, sophisticated handling, and luxurious comfort.
Owner Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving costs and increasing understanding.
Origin:
Written by manufacturers, mirrors dealership technician resources.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components, timing, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter, alternator, sensors, ECU diagnosis.
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, EVAP system, oxygen sensors, emissions testing procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulation, fuel lines.
Clutch System:
Clutch operation, hydraulic system, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing.
Manual Transaxle:
Gearbox removal, overhaul, synchronizers, shift mechanism, fluid specifications.
Automatic Transaxle:
Transmission diagnosis, control module, hydraulic system, torque converter, fluid change procedures.
Driveshaft Axles:
CV joints, driveshafts, differential service, wheel bearings.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment procedures.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Restraint System:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS warning light diagnosis.
Brake System:
ABS system, brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake fluid, bleeding procedures.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panels, doors, windows, upholstery, trim, glass replacement.
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power accessories, central locking, interior electronics, wiring schematics.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control module, refrigerant service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems.
Diagnostics:
Component testing, fault code interpretation, use of diagnostic tools.
Wiring Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, performance data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for basic DIY to professional dealership-level repairs.
Illustrations:
Abundant diagrams and illustrations for clarity.
Target Audience:
Audi owners with basic mechanical skills, independent mechanics, dealership technicians.
Engine Code:
AQJ (or similar variants like AZA)
Engine Type:
4.2L V8 DOHC 32-valve
Horsepower:
340 PS (335 bhp / 250 kW) at 6500 rpm
Torque:
430 Nm (317 lb-ft) at 3400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
G12 or G12+ (Pink/Red coolant)
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, API SJ/SL, ACEA A3-98/B3-98 or newer
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The 4.2L V8 in the C5 S6 uses a timing *chain*, not a belt, requiring periodic inspection but not scheduled replacement in the same way as belts.
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (or Pentosin CHF 11S)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Liters (10.0 US Quarts)
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (control arm bushings, ball joints), ignition coils, MAF sensors, mass air flow sensor, thermostat housing leaks.
Automatic Transmission:
Potential for wear in valve body or torque converter with high mileage.
Brand Focus:
Audi, a German manufacturer known for luxury, engineering, and 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Progress through Technology).
C5 Generation:
The C5 generation (1997-2004 for A6, 1999-2006 for S6) introduced a more aerodynamic and curvaceous design compared to its predecessor.
S6 Positioning:
The S6 served as the high-performance variant of the A6, featuring a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues.
Production Period:
The C5 S6 was produced from 1999 to 2006, with the 2003 model year being part of the latter half of this generation.