CR says A6 reliability is poor. I'm looking to buy a 2004 Avant. How is the reliability ?

 

Motor is strong- but still relatively young- any specific areas you are worried about? The warranty is good for 50K, or you can go CPO and get 100K.

 

I agree. It's broad. Unfortunately so was CR's review. They did mention the quattro was troublesome, especially in the allroad. Not sure why.

 

Bulletins for 2004 Audi A6 V6-2976cc 3.0L DOHC (AVK)


Service Bulletins

TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title

1. 910404 MAR 04 Audio System - Radio Code Retrieval
2. 010401 MAR 04 Immobilizer System - Code Retrieval Information
3. 910402 MAR 04 Telematics/V60 Digital Phone (R) - Diagnostics Guideline
4. 940303 NOV 03 Lighting - Moisture Accumulation in Headlamps
5. 150302 NOV 03 Engine - Possible DTC's/Oil Leak at Camshaft Adjuster
6. 910301 SEP 03 Accessories - On-Star(R) Cannot Locate Vehicle
7. 910302 SEP 03 Audio System - CD Player/Changer Displays ERR Code 1
8. 900301 AUG 03 Instrument Cluster - Service Interval Programming
9. 200302 JUN 03 Emissions - EVAP Leak Detection Pump Quick Check

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Bulletins for 2003 Audi A6 Wagon Quattro V6-2976cc 3.0L DOHC (AVK)


Service Bulletins

TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title

1. 910404 MAR 04 Audio System - Radio Code Retrieval
2. 010401 MAR 04 Immobilizer System - Code Retrieval Information
3. 910402 MAR 04 Telematics/V60 Digital Phone (R) - Diagnostics Guideline
4. 940303 NOV 03 Lighting - Moisture Accumulation in Headlamps
5. 150302 NOV 03 Engine - Possible DTC's/Oil Leak at Camshaft Adjuster
6. 010310 OCT 03 Engine Controls - A/T Jerks in Reverse at Idle
7. 910303 SEP 03 Audio System - Radio Inoperative After Replacement
8. 910302 SEP 03 Audio System - CD Player/Changer Displays ERR Code 1
9. 200302 JUN 03 Emissions - EVAP Leak Detection Pump Quick Check
10. 940301 MAY 03 Instruments - Cluster/Illumination Configurations
11. 010306 MAY 03 Engine Controls - MIL ON/Cam Adjustment DTC's Set
12. 010301 FEB 03 Ignition System - MIL ON/Engine Runs Rough/Low Power
13. 270201 NOV 02 Battery - Correct Din Specification Necessity
14. 910209 SEP 02 Cellular Phone - Aftermarket Installation Caution
15. 800201 JUN 02 A/C - Fresh Air Control Lever Light Inoperative

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As you can see, an extremely low rate of TSBs and no recalls.

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Sources like J D Power and CR, the ratings are based on people's perceptions of reliablity and what constitutes a problem in their opinion. Audi owners may tend to recognize problems or flaws in design at a higher rate than the average consumer. Hence the lower rating. Not to say they are trouble free of course ;-)<ul><li><a href="http://www.alldata.com/TSB/05/0405AG66.html">http://www.alldata.com/TSB/05/0405AG66.html</a</li></ul>

 

the mechanical Torsen center diff (also used in the H1 Hummer), or the EDL (electronic diffs) at either end, which simply use the ABS sensors in reverse to detect slip and slow a spinning wheel to send grip to other wheels. Very bulletproof. It's been around for almost 10 years now. Other manufactuers are starting to use similar systems, although usually without the Torsen center differential.

Some people have commented on the allroad suspension, but I guess you'll need to ask allroad owners the incidence of problems. Same basic system used in several generations of the Mercedes S class now.

I think sometimes it boils down to operator error in some complicated cars.<ul><li><a href="http://www.geocities.com/gkurka2001/CarTech/tech_traction_4wd_2.htm">Quattro 101</a></li></ul>

 

they have had a hard on for Audi for years. Yes the A6 is complex and yes it can have issues. They compare qualtiy of a Camry to an A6--which does not offer the level of technology like an A6.

I've dumped my subscription to consumer reports. A few of their recommendations I've bought were absolute dogs.

The avant is a solid, safe, luxowagon, with performance as well. I've had some issues, but nothing that has not been resolved by the dealer. Compared to the competition, BMW, MB, Audi wins IMO.

I'm biased. I can't imagine going through life based on consumer reports....blech.

 

Don't hold back !! I get your point. You own two A6 3.0 ? What issues? If you don;t mind me asking.

 

Well stated schnellmb...I agree.

 

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/45563/img_1252.jpg"></center><p>
The Avant has 11K and has had very few problems. One set of front rotors were replaced due to being warped, and one rear parktronic sensor was faulty. A recode was done of the transmission to adjust shifts. The avant is a comfortable wagon with AWD. Consumer's *report on quattro issues is a little unfounded IMO.

The 03 24K has had a few more problems. Brake light switch, leaky headlight washers, camshaft position sensor, power steering pump, front rotors/pads, key fob died. Everything has been addressed professionally by my dealer in Cleveland.

Audis have alot of technology, and given, they are German cars. I don't agree with CRs rating that this car is undependable. There are few other car companies out there that I trust to jump in and drive in foul weather.

Like April said, the quattro system has been around for years and is bulletproof. The system is there--it doesn't need to think to kick in, unlike some others on the market.

The 04 model is at the end of the C5 platform cycle. It is a comfortable wagon, that has some exclusivity. Not everyone is driving around in it. You can haul lots of stuff around, and go like the devil in rain and snow.

 

Agree, they treat cars like toasters; fine for Toyotas but not for Audis.