Audi A6 C7 facelift 3.0 TDI, 218 PS, 7-speed dual-clutch, all-wheel drive (2014–2018)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Audi A6 C7 (2011-2018): known problems and buying guide

  A roomy premium saloon with costly engine and gearbox risks, so check the 3.0 TDI camshafts, chains and gearbox history first.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. 3.0 TDI camshafts: read the engine number from the label on the bank 2 cover and ask Audi to check it by VIN. Listen for ticking on a cold start. Sources give different engine-number ranges, so do not rely on a range. Audi's technical product information is TPI 2043172/19.
2. DL501 S tronic: test for jerks when pulling away and on downshifts. Ask for oil records (every 40,000-60,000 km). A scanner should show P189C or P17BF if the fault is stored.
3. 3.0 TDI timing chain: listen for a rattle on a cold start. A garage with ODIS (the Audi dealer software) reads the adaptation values. Target below 3 degrees; above +4 means early wear, above +6 means repair.
4. 3.0 TDI emissions parts: ask about short trips and city use, which clog the DPF (diesel particulate filter). A scanner should show no swirl flap codes P2015 or P2008.
5. Suspension: on a lift, check wheel bearings, bushes and dampers for play and leaks. On air suspension, check ride height; a scanner shows height sensor faults.
6. Recalls: ask a dealer to check open campaigns by VIN.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions