[s-cars] A6Q 2.7 6spd

[Steve Eiche]

I have owned my '00 A6 2.7T 6speed since '01.  I have about 55k on it, and it has been one of the most trouble-free Audis that I have had, right behind the '86 5kS that I drove for 175k miles (believe it or not).  That said, there are some problem areas.  First off, the front suspension components on ALL the newer Audis with the eight link suspension get loose (there should be no noise from the suspension, and tires should be worn evenly).  I have had to replace the tie rods ends at 40k and expect to have to replace some control arms at some point, though everything seems fine now.  Door window guides fail, but are cheap and fairly easy to replace (windows go down, but stop when going up).  ABS controllers are failing due to what I would call a design flaw, but can be rebuilt inexpensively (ABS light will in the cluster will go on and off with a couple of beeps).  As with any of the Audi turbos built since '86, the after-run coolant pumps leak.  Unlike the older cars, replacement is a PITA as the pump is mounted UNDER the intake manifold (remove the center engine cover and look for evidence of coolant under the intake).  Oil leaks are common from the cam adjuster seals on all the newer Audi V engines (check the back side of the passenger side head for oil leaks).  The LCD center information display fades on all the A4s and A6s.  Replacements are fairly expensive.  My cluster was replaced under warranty.

As for the turbos, I wouldn't worry about them as long as you follow you use synthetic oil and let it warm up before abusing it.  Chipping and intake leaks are the main cause of turbo failures IME.  Stock cars rarely lose turbos; chipped cars often do.  If you chip it, don't be surprised if you end up having to replace the turbos at $4k for parts and labor.  Signs of failed turbos are a "dentist drill" noise, soon followed by massive amounts of oil blowing out the exhaust.  When they go, they really go. 

--
Steve Eiche
Shade Tree Software, LLC
http://www.shadetreesoftware.com   http://www.prodiag-hd.com
seiche at shadetreesoftware.com
800.419.6896 ext. 902

s.richter at comcast.net wrote:

>> I just drove a 2001 A6Q 2.7 6speed, sport package, zenons etc.   Anything 
>> I should look out for before considering purchase?  It's a certified car
>> from a dealer.  
>  
>
Kent wrote:

Is it a Twin Turbo? I think I remember something about those turbos
being fragile and dying at around 60K miles (someone feel free to
tell me I'm wrong). I'd want to see full maintenance records for
the car, which a dealer should be able to provide.