Audi A6
EA288 with 140 kW ultra variant. Optimised for low consumption with good power delivery. Proven long-distance engine.
Anxiety engine — costly weakness looms
190 hp 2.0L with a known issue: EGR system and intake tract coked up. The risk of expensive repairs overshadows any driving pleasure.
Engine Weaknesses 5
On the 3.0 TDI EA897 (CRT, CUE, CVM variants 272 hp), a material defect causes the camshaft to snap without warning. Affects Audi A4/A6/A7/Q7 from 2014–2017.
Symptoms: Ticking/knocking clearly above normal diesel noise, power drop, engine protection shutdown.
The 2.0 TDI EA288 in A4 and A5 shows coking in the EGR system and intake tract at higher mileages. Urban traffic and frequent short trips noticeably accelerate the process.
Symptoms: Stumbling and hesitation in the lower rpm range, rough idle, slight power loss and increased fuel consumption
The DPF on the EA288 cannot fully regenerate with predominantly urban and short-trip use. Regular motorway driving is essential for self-cleaning.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, engine power loss, increased fuel consumption, possible limp mode
Like all EA288 variants, the CSUB uses a wet timing belt for the oil pump drive. Rubber particles enter the oil. VAG gives no official replacement interval; specialists recommend replacement from 200,000 km or conversion to chain drive.
Symptoms: No direct driver warning signals; with wear, oil pressure loss and subsequent engine damage
At higher mileages injector seals on the 2.0 TDI can leak. This causes oil contamination around the injectors and in extreme cases combustion misfires. Often just the O-ring and copper sealing washer need replacing.
Symptoms: Visible oil trail around injectors, rough running, slight smoke from engine bay
Vehicle Weaknesses 9
On model years 2015–2018, the locking bolt of the tow bar can fracture, potentially causing the trailer to become detached while driving. Free workshop visit required.
The Multitronic CVT gearbox has a notoriously poor reliability record. Improved on the C7, it remains a risk. Total failure possible from 100,000 km; repair is very costly.
A material defect can cause the camshafts in the 3.0 TDI to fracture, leading to engine damage. Mainly affects vehicles from model year 2014 to early 2017.
The optional air suspension (AAS) is prone to failure through porous air bellows and defective compressors. Repair costs of 600–1,800 EUR per corner are possible.
LED headlights fail due to defective control modules or individual LEDs. Repair is often more expensive than replacement, as modules cannot be replaced individually.
The automatic climate control shows malfunctions from around 60,000 km: incorrect temperature regulation, blower stage issues or complete failure of individual zones on the three-zone system.
Wheel bearings, particularly at the rear axle, show increased wear at higher mileages. Regularly flagged on vehicles from 80,000 km.
On the C7, rust occurs primarily on the underbody and sills, sometimes in hard-to-reach areas. On vehicles over 7 years old, the underbody should be thoroughly inspected.
On V6 and V8 engines, engine mounts often wear from around 50,000 km, causing noticeable vibrations.