Segment:
Executive Sedan and Wagon
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking luxury, performance, and advanced technology
Competitors 1998:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Lexus GS
Platform:
Volkswagen Group PL45 platform (shared with VW Passat B5)
Design Philosophy:
Sophistication, advanced engineering, quattro all-wheel drive, understated luxury
Powertrain:
Mechanical Engine, Transmission, Driveline Axle
Chassis:
Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Electrical System, Lights
Body And Interior:
Body & Frame - Interior & Exterior, Restraints
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC, Audio, Visual & Telematics, Accessories & Equipment
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom analysis
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements
Repair And Overhaul:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for all major systems
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults
Bodywork:
Body panel alignment, repair techniques, trim replacement
Depth:
Full factory repair and service specifications, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Engine Code A6:
AEB (1.8T), APB (2.8 V6), AJK (2.8 V6), AQE (2.8 V6)
Displacement A6:
1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4, 2.8L V6
Power Output A6 1.8T:
150 PS (148 bhp; 110 kW)
Torque A6 1.8T:
210 Nm (155 lb-ft)
Power Output A6 2.8:
204 PS (201 bhp; 150 kW)
Torque A6 2.8:
280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Power Output S6:
340 PS (335 bhp; 250 kW)
Torque S6:
420 Nm (310 lb-ft)
Engine Code Rs6:
ART, AQJ
Displacement Rs6:
4.2L Bi-Turbo V8
Power Output Rs6:
450 PS (444 bhp; 331 kW)
Torque Rs6:
580 Nm (428 lb-ft)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (A6, S6), 6-speed Manual (RS6)
Type Optional:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (A6, S6), 5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (RS6)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard on A6; quattro permanent all-wheel drive standard on S6, RS6 and optional on A6
NHTSA Rating:
Not explicitly available for the 1998 model year, but generally rated highly for its class at the time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available on some models
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audi Navigation:
Optional Audi Navigation system with CD-ROM based maps
Audi Sound System:
Bose premium sound system available as an option
Cd Changer:
Optional CD changer in the trunk or glove compartment
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated mobile phone preparation with Bluetooth (later models)
Service Intervals Oil Change
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Oil A6 1.8T:
SAE 5W-40, API SJ, ACEA A3/B3
Engine Oil A6 2.8:
SAE 5W-40, API SJ, ACEA A3/B3
Engine Oil S6 Rs6:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, API SJ, ACEA A3/B3
Transmission Fluid Manual:
G 052 171 A1 (Gearbox oil)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
G 055 025 A2 (ATF fluid)
Coolant:
G 12 Plus (Pink ethylene glycol based coolant), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Common Problems Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil cooler seals, crankcase breather system issues.
Common Problems Suspension:
Control arm bushings, sway bar links, front and rear shock absorber mounts.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulators, climate control module failures, ABS sensor issues, central locking system malfunctions.
Common Problems Engine 1.8T:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil failures, PCV valve issues leading to oil consumption.
Common Problems Engine V8:
Timing belt tensioners (if applicable to specific variant), spark plug replacements, oil sludge buildup if not maintained properly.
Common Problems Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoids, torque converter issues, manual clutch wear.
Audi Legacy:
Audi has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, quattro all-wheel drive technology, and luxury vehicles since its inception.
C4 To C5:
The 1998 model year marked the introduction of the second generation (C5) Audi A6, replacing the outgoing C4 platform. This generation introduced a more aerodynamic design, improved chassis dynamics, and a wider range of powertrain options.
Production Period:
1997-2004 (C5 generation)
Assembly Plants:
Neckarsulm, Germany; Brussels, Belgium
Editorial Awards:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its refined ride, sophisticated interior, and strong performance, particularly the S6 and RS6 variants.
Safety Organization Ratings:
While specific ratings for 1998 are harder to pin down, the C5 platform generally performed well in its era's safety evaluations.