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Audi A6 C5: How to Change Oil

Replacing the engine oil on time in the Audi A6 C5 is considered to be the most important maintenance intervals. Read on to learn how to quickly do it.

By Bassem Girgis - April 4, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A6 C5 (1998-2004).

The engine oil is not designed to last forever in the Audi A6 C5; in fact, it's not recommended you wait a day after 5,000 miles. As the car gets older, the oil starts getting burnt faster and quicker. Replacing the engine oil prevents your engine's internal components from wearing, since the oil starts losing its lubricant properties after a while. If you haven't replaced your engine oil recently, now is the time. Read on to learn how to do it all by yourself in the Audi A6 C5.

Audi A6 C5: How to Change Oil

Materials Needed

  • 19mm socket
  • Oil filter wrench
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Drain pan
  • Engine oil

Step 1 – Raise car

Before you raise the car, open the hood and remove the oil cap. This will assist in the draining process. Raise the car with your jack, then secure it with your jack stands.

AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
Figure 1. Raise and secure the car.

Step 2 – Remove lower cover

The lower cover is held in place by a series of screws. You will have to remove four screws on the front on the cover, two screws on the back of the cover, and two on each side of the cover, from inside of the wheel well.

  • AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
    Figure 2. Remove front screws.
  • AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
    Figure 3. Remove two screws on each side.
  • AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
    Figure 4. Remove rear screws.

Step 3 – Drain engine oil

Place the drain pan underneath the engine's drain plug, then use your 19mm socket to loosen it. Once it's loose, use your hands to remove it slowly. Give it a few minutes for the engine to drain.

AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
Figure 5. Remove engine's drain pan.

Step 4 – Replace oil filter

The oil filter is located directly above the drain plug. Use your oil filter wrench, and wrap it around the oil filter. Turn it counter-clockwise to remove it. Before installing the new one in place, rub some oil on its rubber gasket to prevent it from tearing or prematurely leaking.

  • AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
    Figure 6. Remove oil filter.
  • AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
    Figure 7. Install new filter.

Step 5 – Refill engine oil

Make sure the drain plug is closed tightly, then lower the car and refill the engine oil. The factory recommends 6.4 liters. Pour in about six and check the level before continuing to fill, as some residual oil is always left in the engine that could not be drained. After filling the engine with oil, start the car for a few minutes, then check the oil dipstick for proper levels.

AUDI A6 C5 OIL CHANGE HOW TO REMOVE REPLACE CHANGE
Figure 8. Refill engine with oil.

Featured Video: How to Change Audi A6 Oil and Filter

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