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Audi A6 C5: General Information and Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Are you curious to know how long your Audi A6 C5 will last? Keep reading for the information you will need to answer that question.

By Charlie Gaston - April 4, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A6 C5 (2008-2015).

When it comes to the Audi A6 C5, there is absolutely no getting around it. You will need to follow the general maintenance schedule and stay on top of any needed repairs as they arise. Doing so will not only ensure your car reaches 100,000 (or more) miles on the odometer, but, in some cases, can save you money at the pump and ensure your car experiences quality performance on the road. Let's take a look at the general information you'll want to know about the A6 C5, including what maintenance work needs to be performed and when.

Audi A6 C5

Mileage: The Highs and The Lows

The Audi A6 C5 has the potential to achieve up to 300,000 miles on the odometer; however, some owners have reported reaching just 150,000 miles. This is not to say some minor to major repairs won't be needed in the interim. In many cases, you will be looking at a timing belt repair at some point down the line. Be sure to check the key on your crank sprocket while you're at it. Don't cut corners when it comes to achieving the most mileage on the A6 C5.

Figure 1. Achieve high mileage through regular car maintenance.

Resetting the Service Interval on the Instrument Cluster

If you are a DIY-enthusiast, you may work on your car more often than some owners. If you regularly change your engine oil, for example, it would be handy to know how to reset the service interval notification. This is a simple task you can complete at home in 15 or fewer minutes. Here's how:

  • With the ignition switched off, press and hold the trip reset button located on your instrument cluster.
  • Turn your ignition on, while continuing to press and hold the reset button.
  • Your computer will display a message that says, "Service Oil."
  • Once it does, go ahead and release the button and reset the reading.
  • When you are done, you will see three dashes (- - -) display across the instrument panel.
  • Move on to the next service event by once again pressing the button.
  • Release the button and wait for "Service INSP" to appear on the display.
  • Reset the reading, and then turn off your ignition.

Figure 2. Use your instrument cluster to reset the service interval after you've completed a repair.

Common Engine-Related Repairs

Your most common engine repairs will relate to your timing belt. Other components you'll need to inspect and replace (as needed) include your camshaft cap seals and rear camshaft plug seals, as well as your camshaft chain tensioner gasket and valve covers.

Figure 3. Cam seal leaks can occur.

Scheduled Maintenance

To achieve the greatest number of miles on your Audi, you will need to have your engine and transmission oil replaced regularly (approximately every 7,500 miles). Your timing belt should be able to last up to 70,000 miles. Refer to your owner's manual for a complete list of regular maintenance items.

Common Questions

How does the 2.8L engine compare to the 3.0L engine when it comes to reliability?

The 2.8L engine offers a great deal of reliability and is considered to be "less stressful" to maintain than a 3.0L engine. This is largely because the former has fewer parts to maintain and replace.

Can I use aftermarket replacement parts on my Audi?

Yes. However, for more complicated replacements, it's best to have your Audi serviced by a certified Audi repair specialist.

How long can my Audi run on a bad serpentine belt?

Generally speaking, you can run your Audi long enough to reach a local Audi dealer or professional mechanic, which is approximately one hour of drive time.

Common Issues

Leaky Cam Adjuster/Valve Cover Seals

These can be said to show visible signs of wear, resulting in leaks, more quickly than other parts on the Audi A6 2.7t. However, generally speaking, you shouldn't notice any problems until well after the 50,000- to 75,000-mile mark. This is around the time you might need a new alternator and/or timing belt, so have your automotive service professional inspect these and other components at that time, as well.

After Run Coolant Pump

A common repair, the after run coolant pump could begin to leak over time, especially as wear and tear builds up. If you change it on your own, the entire DIY project could take around two hours and cost approximately $100.

Alternator

If your alternator dies, it is probably not because of poor driving habits. This is a common repair for most Audi A6s, and needs to be done right away, or else your car won't receive the necessary battery power to run.

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