Vehicle Segment:
The Audi A6 (C6) is positioned as a premium executive sedan, competing with rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type.
Vehicle Strengths:
Known for its refined interior, advanced technology (for its time), quattro all-wheel drive capability, and comfortable ride.
Benefit To Owner:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with the necessary detailed electrical information to diagnose and repair common and complex electrical issues, reducing reliance on dealership services.
Primary Focus:
Electrical Systems and Components
Additional Coverage:
Battery, Starter, Generator, Cruise Control, Windshield Wiper/Washer System, Exterior Lights, Switches, Interior Lights, Switches, Wiring
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific edition, typically 500-1500+ pages for comprehensive electrical manuals
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Power Generation Storage:
Battery charging system (generator/alternator), battery testing and replacement, starter motor operation and troubleshooting.
Lighting:
Headlights (low/high beam, DRLs), taillights, brake lights, turn signals, fog lights, interior lighting (dome, map, vanity), ambient lighting, switch functionality and wiring.
Wipers Washers:
Windshield wiper motor, park switch, intermittent wiper module, washer pump, fluid level sensor, control switches and wiring.
Cruise Control:
System operation, control module diagnostics, speed sensors, actuator, switches, and wiring harness.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems, component identification, connector pinouts, wire colors, and routing information.
Switches:
Ignition switch, light switches, wiper/washer switches, door lock switches, window switches, HVAC controls, hazard switch, horn switch, and their associated circuitry.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., multimeter, oscilloscopes).
Repair:
Component replacement (e.g., starter, alternator, wiper motor), wiring harness repair (splice, crimp, repair broken wires), switch replacement.
Testing:
Procedures for testing individual electrical components, circuits, fuses, relays, and sensors.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic strategies for complex electrical issues, including CAN bus communication principles and basic troubleshooting.
Wiring Diagram Detail:
High detail on wiring harnesses, connector types, component locations, and power distribution.
Available Engines 2005:
The 2005 Audi A6 (C6) was offered with several engine options globally, most commonly: 3.2L FSI V6 (8-cylinder) and 4.2L FSI V8. Specific market availability varied.
3.2L Fsi V6 Power:
Approximately 255 hp @ 6500 rpm
3.2L Fsi V6 Torque:
Approximately 243 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
4.2L Fsi V8 Power:
Approximately 335 hp @ 6800 rpm
4.2L Fsi V8 Torque:
Approximately 317 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Injection Type:
Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) - Direct Injection
Coolant Type:
G12+ (Pink) or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant
Transmission Type 3.2L:
6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission (often paired with quattro)
Transmission Type 4.2L:
6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission (standard with quattro)
Drive System:
Quattro all-wheel drive (standard on many models, especially V8).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 A1 or equivalent specified by Audi. Refer to specific vehicle VIN for exact fluid type.
Length:
Approx. 4916 mm (193.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1855 mm (73.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1455 mm (57.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2843 mm (112.0 in)
Curb Weight 3.2L Quattro:
Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs)
Curb Weight 4.2L Quattro:
Approx. 1870 kg (4123 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 546 liters (19.3 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for 2005 model year, general assessment of Audi A6)
IIHS Front Impact:
Good (for 2005 model year, general assessment of Audi A6)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / ESP
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front-seat belt tensioners.
Mmi System:
Multi Media Interface (MMI) system with navigation, radio, climate control, and vehicle settings. Early versions can be complex and prone to glitches.
Parking Aid:
Optional parking sensors (front and rear) and rearview camera.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling.
Headlights:
Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and adaptive cornering lights were available options.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Consult owner's manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement (around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type), timing belt/chain inspection (chain is typically lifetime, belt models require replacement).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Full Synthetic, meeting VW 502 00 or VW 505 00 specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity 3.2L:
Approx. 6.9 liters (7.3 US quarts)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.2L:
Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts)
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Common Electrical Problems:
Faulty headlight washers, issues with door lock actuators, MMI (Multi Media Interface) system glitches, parking sensor failures, HVAC control module issues, and occasional CAN bus communication errors.
Common Mechanical Problems:
Oil consumption in early FSI engines, PCV valve failures, timing chain wear (on some engines), and potential transmission control module issues.
Audi Legacy:
Audi has a long history of producing premium vehicles known for engineering, design, and advanced technology, particularly with its quattro all-wheel-drive system.
A6 Lineage:
The A6 nameplate replaced the Audi 100. The 2005 model represents the second generation (C6) of the A6, introduced in late 2004, featuring a significant redesign over the C5 generation.
C6 Generation Years:
2004-2011 (model years for North America typically 2005-2011).
Primary Assembly Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Car And Driver Odi:
Car and Driver recognized the Audi A6 (C6) on its '10Best' list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its engineering and driving dynamics.
Reliability Index:
Reliability ratings for the 2005 A6 vary; while generally well-regarded for its luxury and performance, some owners reported higher than average repair costs, particularly related to electronics and complex systems.