Positioning:
The Audi A6/S6/RS6 (4B generation) represented Audi's foray into the executive and performance sedan market, competing directly with rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Jaguar S-Type.
Vehicle Highlights:
Known for its Quattro all-wheel-drive system, sophisticated interior, refined ride, and powerful engine options, especially in the S6 and RS6 variants.
Value:
This comprehensive factory manual provides the highest level of detail for servicing and repairing these luxury performance vehicles, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Powertrain:
Mechanical Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual options).
Chassis:
Brakes, Driveline Axle, Steering, Suspension, Tires & Wheels.
Electrical:
Full Electrical System, Lighting, Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts).
Body And Interior:
Body & Frame - Interior & Exterior components.
Comfort And Convenience:
Accessories & Equipment, Audio, Visual & Telematics, HVAC.
Diagnostic And Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, fault finding, symptom analysis, and troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension repairs.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, and inspection points.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component diagnosis, and repair of electrical faults.
Bodywork And Collision:
Information on body panel removal/installation, dent repair, structural integrity, and interior trim.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance and routine checks to in-depth component overhaul and advanced electrical diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Coverage:
Includes comprehensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for accurate troubleshooting and repair.
Torque Values:
Precise torque specifications for all fasteners and critical components.
Tolerances:
Engine and component internal tolerances for precision assembly and repair.
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable in its entirety or by selected pages.
Operating Systems:
Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.
Software Requirements:
Requires Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRar for extraction and viewing.
Binding:
Digital (downloadable PDF).
Paper Format:
N/A (Digital Format).
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated V6, Turbocharged V6, and naturally aspirated V8 options for the A6 variants.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated V8 (4.2L).
Engine Type:
Twin-turbocharged V8 (4.2L).
Horsepower:
Approximately 340 hp (250 kW) for the 4.2L V8 S6.
Horsepower:
Approximately 450 hp (331 kW) for the twin-turbo 4.2L V8 RS6.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for most variants, Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) potentially for diesel variants not explicitly mentioned for 2000 in US market, but common in Europe.
Common Codes:
AEB, APB, AKE, AKN, AQD, ARJ, ASJ, AYD, AZM (Vary by engine configuration and market, manual covers all).
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 5 valves per cylinder (common across many Audi engines of this era).
Transmission Type:
Tiptronic automatic transmission (5-speed) was common, with a 6-speed manual option available on some variants.
Transmission Type:
Tiptronic automatic transmission (5-speed) standard on S6 and RS6, with manual variants also available.
Drivetrain:
Quattro all-wheel drive system is a hallmark of these models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF (e.g., G 055 025 or equivalent).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific MTF (e.g., G 052 171 or equivalent).
Length:
Approximately 4815 mm (189.6 in).
Width:
Approximately 1765 mm (69.5 in).
Height:
Approximately 1460 mm (57.5 in).
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and drivetrain, typically ranging from 1550 kg to 1750 kg (3417 lbs to 3858 lbs).
Wheelbase Length:
Approximately 2762 mm (108.7 in).
Crash Test Performance:
While specific ratings for the 2000 model year may vary by region, Audi vehicles of this era generally performed well in North American NHTSA and IIHS testing, featuring robust safety structures.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was standard or optional.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, and optional front and rear head curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Optional Audi Symphony and Concert sound systems, potentially with CD changers and navigation integration (MMI system not present in this generation).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control functionality.
Parking Assistance:
Optional parking sensors (Parktronic).
Telematics:
Early forms of telematics and integrated phone systems may have been available as options.
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights standard, with optional Xenon headlights.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (synthetic recommended).
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by engine, typically 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement:
For engines equipped with a timing belt (e.g., V6 30v), typically every 75,000 to 105,000 miles (120,000 to 170,000 km) or 5-7 years. Many V8s use timing chains.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API/ACEA specifications (e.g., SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40, meeting VW 502.00 / 505.00 standards).
Coolant:
G12 or G12+ coolant (pink/red) mixed with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils, mass airflow sensors (MAF), suspension components (bushings, control arms), power steering leaks, ABS sensor failures, and sometimes oil cooler leaks are noted for this generation.
Rs6 Specific:
Twin-turbo system complexity can lead to turbocharger issues, intercooler leaks, and potential failure of the DRC (Dynamic Ride Control) suspension system if equipped and not maintained.
Brand Focus:
Audi is renowned for its pioneering use of Quattro all-wheel drive, luxury interiors, and advanced engineering, establishing itself as a premium automotive manufacturer.
Generation:
The 4B generation Audi A6, introduced in 1997, marked a significant departure from its predecessor, featuring a more aerodynamic and modern design, and the introduction of the S6 and later the high-performance RS6.
Performance Variants:
The S6 offered a step up in performance with its V8 engine, while the RS6 was the ultimate expression of the 4B platform, engineered by Audi Sport GmbH (now Audi Sport) with a potent twin-turbo V8 and enhanced chassis.
Production Period:
The 4B platform was produced from 1997 to 2004, with the 2000 model year falling within the first half of this generation's lifecycle.