S6 V10 Maitenance Costs

[audimanstan]

Im looking into purchasing an S6 V10 for a daily. Would any owners share some information regarding maintenance costs for the V10. I heard that its a high maintenance car? Is that true? If so what are some common problems that occur? Also what things should I specifically look for when purchasing the car? The car would be 60k-70k mile range. Any general information would be great! =)

[c@@kieMonsta]

This forum is a gold mine for C6 S6 info, specifically about the type and cost of maintenance to expect. Many members have posted here so my suggestion is to use the search function because you'll be able to get a ton more details that way.

[Nizmo]

Its just like any other car. Take care of the maintenance items like plugs, filters, oil and tires and it will be a good vehicle.

Shop around for a well taken care of S6, lower mileage is not necessarily better.

Only thing thats really any different about THIS car, 12 quart oil change, and a cartridge filter $100+ even for DIY

[TechnoToad]

I'm a proud owner of a used 2007 Audi S6. The car was a one owner car, and had service records and the proper maintenance performed on the car before I bought it. To me this was one of the most important steps in owning a pre-owned S6 V10. I searched a long time to find a that had been taken care of and driven sensibly.

The S6 V10 has some inherent issues like: Carbon build up in the intake tract (lots of write ups about this) Somewhat temperamental lurching transmission in sport mode (again there are write up about this) Suspension control arm busings that seem to wear out prematurely.

The maintenance costs are higher, you have a big heavy car with a high performance engine with extra cylinders, this cost more for parts: I'm fortunate that I can do most of the maintenance work myself...so it just cost me the oem parts that I have to purchase to do the repairs: I just put front rotors and new pads, and caliper bushings. I also did a complete brake fluid flush...total cost of parts $535.00. I know it probably would have cost more having the work done at an Audi dealer or independent service shop. If you can do alot of the repair labor on your own.. The S6 V10 is probably not any more expensive to maintain then any other top line Audi:

[audimanstan]

Yes i know there are many threads regarding this topic, and I have read a large number of them. Most of them are older, never know what new topic might come up, and as well get an input on newer s6 owners.

The V10 S6 is so cheap compared to the models. The interior is my favorite plus the white seats just add the cherry on top. I currently drive a A6 C6 but have been itching for a newer car. I guess the only down part is that the car does not live up to its performance. I can buy a 3.0 A6 and tune it to be faster while getting better gas milage and lower maintenance costs. Theres just something about the V10 S6 that is so attractive. I do most of the maintenance myself as well. I enjoy getting my hand a bit dirty. ;)

[SinCityA6]

.... I can buy a 3.0 A6 and tune it to be faster while getting better gas milage and lower maintenance costs. Theres just something about the V10 S6 that is so attractive. I do most of the maintenance myself as well. I enjoy getting my hand a bit dirty. ;)

This is probably the most true statement!! I have an A6 that will walk an S6 of the same generation, but I would own an S6 (if I didnt need it as a daily driver) just to have the ability to say I own an S6 with the V10 motor and that exhaust growl!!.

[Kem]

Aren't the intake manifolds prone to problems and also very expensive?

[SinCityA6]

Aren't the intake manifolds prone to problems and also very expensive?

The intake flaps have a tendancy to fail.

[Purpleaardvark]

I've a 2007 S6, I've run it from 50k to 95k mile and generally it's been pretty good.
Ok lets face it, it's not cheap to run but V10 5.2 that has that kind of performance is not going to be like a hatchback to run.
My only advice would be to buy an aftermarket warranty as my engine blew at 75k miles, Audi have no idea what caused it, however it had a full dealer history, I'd not thrashed it or abused it and it gave way a 50 mph.
Audi UK, My Local Audi Dealer and warranty company were all very good to me and replaced the engine, cats, inlet manifold (£3k on its own!!) for only the excess on my policy £250, the whole bill was in excess of £24k!!!
So just beware as with cars of this nature if it goes wrong it can be very very expensive.

[c@@kieMonsta]

I've a 2007 S6, I've run it from 50k to 95k mile and generally it's been pretty good.
My only advice would be to buy an aftermarket warranty as my engine blew at 75k miles

[Saifxnyc]

how can you make a 3.0 faster than a S6 i am curious?.

I love S6 drove it once it was nice!
here is some info on it

http://tinyurl.com/hy62loe
http://tinyurl.com/h5b4934

[SinCityA6]

A 3.0 supercharged motor with a Stage 2 tune (w/ pulley) will put down more power and be quicker than a stock s6 with the v10.

[Nizmo]

A 3.0 supercharged motor with a Stage 2 tune (w/ pulley) will put down more power and be quicker than a stock s6 with the v10.

Sometimes its not about being quicker. Personally, I have more pleasure from the V10 than I do with a 3.0T at the same speed.

If I was looking for times, I would prob chose the 3.0T however the A6 in general may not be the best track car to chose.

[SinCityA6]

Sometimes its not about being quicker. Personally, I have more pleasure from the V10 than I do with a 3.0T at the same speed.

If I was looking for times, I would prob chose the 3.0T however the A6 in general may not be the best track car to chose.

As I stated above, if I wasn't using it for a daily driver, the S6 would be a great car.
But that being said, for a daily driver, you really can't beat the 3.0t as it can have more power, handle better and be less expensive to operate then the S6.
As for a track car, neither the S6 or A6 are track kings. Too big and heavy. If you want a track car, go into an S4.


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[Nizmo]

If you want a track car, go into an S4.

Exactly. I wouldn't call my S4 a track car, but it certainly is more fun to drive than the S6.

[AndreNY]

its an awesome car, but very expensive to maintain and very Slow for a V10

[Purpleaardvark]

its an awesome car, but very expensive to maintain and very Slow for a V10

What other V10's are quicker point to point?

[cal3thousand]

It's not always about quicker, but also think about the understeering nature of a big V10 up front. Also consider that most are going to be pre 2009, meaning a 50/50 torque split vs the newer 40/60 F/R, adding to even more understeer compared to a 3.0T.

I still love the feeling of an S6 though. The seats and materials are enough to make you want one.

[cal3thousand]

What other V10's are quicker point to point?

E60 M5 and Gallardo come to mind (obviously more expensive)

[c@@kieMonsta]

What other V10's are quicker point to point?

Not really much out there in terms of V10's especially 4 door sedans(E60 M5, D3 S8, and lol)...but there are plenty of NA V8's that are faster.

[AndreNY]

well a E60 M5 will demolish an S6 same goes for a Lambo and an R8, but considering the S6 has a V10 and 435HP is very slow (0-60 in 5.2 sec) Like I sad before fantastic car look great has Superb Interior but way too slow for being a 10 cylinder

[Nizmo]

well a E60 M5 will demolish an S6 same goes for a Lambo and an R8, but considering the S6 has a V10 and 435HP is very slow (0-60 in 5.2 sec) Like I sad before fantastic car look great has Superb Interior but way too slow for being a 10 cylinder

I am not a big guy, the S6 is a rocket ship. I really don't get where the S6 is slow.

*(1,163) 2008 Audi S6 5.2 Sedan quattros were sold in the United States

*Its a rare bird

[audimanstan]

Theres just something about driving a S6 V10. One of my favorite cars all around esp the interior. After doing a lot of research and talking with you smart gentlemen, Im going to wait to get an S6 V10 when i have extra finances to blow! lol

[Purpleaardvark]

E60 M5 and Gallardo come to mind (obviously more expensive)

Point to point i'm not so sure.
Our MD has a E60 M5 and S8 (a helicopter too!!) he drives rally cars for kicks and he's driven my S6 and he was of the opinion that in the real world the Audi would be quicker car, however it's a moot point and way off line from the Op's thread, sorry

[v8a6]

It's not always about quicker, but also think about the understeering nature of a big V10 up front. Also consider that most are going to be pre 2009, meaning a 50/50 torque split vs the newer 40/60 F/R, adding to even more understeer compared to a 3.0T.

I still love the feeling of an S6 though. The seats and materials are enough to make you want one.

From the S6 wiki...

A ZF 6HP26 six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission (parts code: 09E, identification codes: JBW, JMS, KHD, JLL) (gear ratios - 1st: 4.171, 2nd: 2.340, 3rd: 1.521, 4th: 1.143, 5th: 0.867, 6th: 0.691), with steering wheel-mounted "paddle-shifters" is the only transmission available. Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive - initially with the T-2 symmetrical differential, and from 2007 model year with the latest 40:60 front:rear asymmetric/dynamic Torsen T-3 differential, is standard. The final drive ratio is 3.801. Traction is assisted "Electronic Differential Lock" (EDL) and "Anti-Slip Regulation" (ASR) (commonly known as traction control system) - both functions of the Bosch ESP 8.0 Electronic Stability Programme.

Also, the S6 handles way better than the A6 3.0t. There is a lot more to handling than the number of cylinders in the engine. Stick to the facts.

[v8a6]

my v10

[c@@kieMonsta]

Also, the S6 handles way better than the A6 3.0t. There is a lot more to handling than the number of cylinders in the engine. Stick to the facts.

So just because it has the same torque split as the C6.5, it makes it handle a lot better? The cylinders DO MATTER in this case. Because of the increased displacement, that also adds to the weight that is hanging past the front axle. The weight distribution is quite disproportional, 59/41 F/R, so almost 60% of the weight is up front. Think about what kind of effect that will have when taking a corner=understeer boss. Can't overcome physics if if the there is dynamic torque split. Not to mention that the S6 weighs 4,486lbs vs 4,123lbs of the 3.0T A6 (363lb difference, most of it up front). Not trying to start a flame war hear, but to say that the S6 handles way better is probably stretching it a bit. But heck, I'm just sticking to the facts ;)

[Nizmo]

In handling and cornering an A6 3.0T is 244BHP bone stock...To the wheels
https://www.goapr.com/products/ecu_u...tfsi_c6a6.html

Even with the argument that the S6 is slow, Id give it 360-370BHP. The S6 has more traction and horsepower available than the A6. Not to mention the body bracing that is present.

The S6 will arguably handle better.

[v8a6]

So just because it has the same torque split as the C6.5, it makes it handle a lot better? The cylinders DO MATTER in this case. Because of the increased displacement, that also adds to the weight that is hanging past the front axle. The weight distribution is quite disproportional, 59/41 F/R, so almost 60% of the weight is up front. Think about what kind of effect that will have when taking a corner=understeer boss. Can't overcome physics if if the there is dynamic torque split. Not to mention that the S6 weighs 4,486lbs vs 4,123lbs of the 3.0T A6 (363lb difference, most of it up front). Not trying to start a flame war hear, but to say that the S6 handles way better is probably stretching it a bit. But heck, I'm just sticking to the facts ;)

Or you can just go test drive them both, back to back, in stock form, and then come back and report which one is better in handling, instead of just being an internet genius. There was a reason one MSRP was $47k and one was $72k, and it wasnt just the engine.

[c@@kieMonsta]

Or you can just go test drive them both, back to back, in stock form, and then come back and report which one is better in handling, instead of just being an internet genius. There was a reason one MSRP was $47k and one was $72k, and it wasnt just the engine.

Internet genius huh? I could have sworn you referenced Wikipedia? Pot, meet kettle . Nobody is saying that a stock 3.0T is going to out handle or out perform an S6. The argument all along has been that you can take a 3.0T and make it faster. With suspension upgrades, possibly out handle too. Most everyone agrees that the reason for owning an S6 is the sound and exclusivity. There were and are plenty of $72k vehicles out there that fill those roles much better than the S6. Case closed.

[AndreNY]

Internet genius huh? I could have sworn you referenced Wikipedia? Pot, meet kettle . Nobody is saying that a stock 3.0T is going to out handle or out perform an S6. The argument all along has been that you can take a 3.0T and make it faster. With suspension upgrades, possibly out handle too. Most everyone agrees that the reason for owning an S6 is the sound and exclusivity. There were and are plenty of $72k vehicles out there that fill those roles much better than the S6. Case closed.

Please Stop arguing with v8a6 he knows everything there is to know about anything and everything....

[Saifxnyc]

Both cars are amazing in their own respect S6 is still exclusive didn't know they sold little over one thousand cars here. I have also given this matter some great thought and the cost outweighs the satisfaction of owning and driving an S6 V10 which is priceless in my opinion.
Gas guzzler tax anybody.

I just realized that v8a6 is the creator of this thread. I tried to link it normal but it would come up blocked weird.

I love S6 drove it once it was nice!
here is some info on it

http://tinyurl.com/hy62loe
http://tinyurl.com/h5b4934

It's very nice the thread is informative and helpful to make the decision to go forward with the purchase whenever possible. As you can see I have been googling s6 forever. Thanks.


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[v8a6]

thanks Saifxnyc.

There is a large group of v10 S6 owners over on Audi Revolution. Most of the enthusiasts who own one, usually find their way over there, sooner or later.

Agreed, both the 3.0 and the v10 are awesome machines in their own respect. You can't go wrong with either one. Just have to be ready for potentially higher maintenance costs on the v10.

At the prices the v10s are selling for these days, I think they are an absolute steal. But, everyone has their own priorities on what makes an incredible sports sedan.

Back in 07, Car and Driver tested the S6, BMW M5, and E63 AMG. They thought it was pretty good, and even rated it above the BMW M5.
http://www.caranddriver.com/comparis...omparison-test

[PatPS6]

maintenance has been great ever since the last month, my s6 has been in the shop 4 times in the last month. power steering leak, coolant leak, check engine light for misfiring and for the belt that just snapped one day.

[Nizmo]

maintenance has been great ever since the last month, my s6 has been in the shop 4 times in the last month. power steering leak, coolant leak, check engine light for misfiring and for the belt that just snapped one day.

I did the intake flaps and oil separator this week as well.

Oh well, at least its not a turbo...

[EriCal]

I have a V10 S6, now with 52k miles, always garaged and well-cared for. Absolutely stock. Only maintenance issues have been a failed instrument cluster replaced under warranty by the dealer and a cracked coolant overflow tank replaced by me. It does have the ZF downshift lurch. I dearly love the car. It is at its best on a very fast drive between LA and Las Vegas (grin)

I also have a 2015 S5; 6MT, sport diff, adaptive suspension. A wonderful, fun car, as different as night and day. It is tough to decide which car to drive. I had planned to sell the S6 but I just cannot bring myself to part with it.

Eric

[AndreNY]

its interesting reading about all the people that have the issue with the Transmission in "Sport" mode I thought I was the only one when I had my car, and I did a full trans flush, trans adaptation and it was still happening, I guess its just an "S6" thing

[Nizmo]

I noticed a slight lurch when downshifting as well, but I attributed to the fact I kept the same pedal pressure.

Lifting off a bit when downshifting seems to make it better.

[2003svtjrc]

Looking at an s6 this coming Saturday at an audi dealer which the car was purchased and serviced at since new. Car has 68k and is advertised at $19,900. Im excited since ive never driven or been inside one!


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[cal3thousand]

Or you can just go test drive them both, back to back, in stock form, and then come back and report which one is better in handling, instead of just being an internet genius. There was a reason one MSRP was $47k and one was $72k, and it wasnt just the engine.

Yup, it's not just the engine. There's the sport seats, the carbon fiber interior, exclusive body design and LEDs, upgraded brakes, wheels and tires. None which add to better handling except for the tires (the heavy brakes actually take away from the handling), yet significantly add to the price. The suspension was NOT upgraded in any significant way (i.e. differing technology)

And unfortunately, test drives generally do not allow you to test these cars to their limits and that's where you will actually notice a difference between the 2 cars' dynamics. In regular driving, no difference in handling, just the other parts.