Are there problems with the Audi A6 2.0 TDI Multitronic?
I was going to buy a 2008 Audi A6 2.0 TDI Multitronic, but I have been told they give a lot of turbo and flywheel trouble. It has 143,000km on the clock. What's your opinion?
I had a 2004 E-Class Mercedes-Benz in Elegance spec, powered by a petrol engine. The Audi I think gives me the same comfort as the E-Class, but is diesel, which will be much cheaper to run. It is also in a low tax band, but I have heard bad reports from an owner regarding flywheels and the turbo. Mind you, the Mercedes was not without problems like the SRS, which cost me money.
James Murphy (Dublin)Dec 2012 Filed under: reliability
Expert answer
Hi James,
As discussed via email:
That generation Audi A6 is in general a reliable car, but not fault-free. Some owners have had no problems, while others have been plagued. The Multitronic transmission is not renowned for being the most trouble-free, though units made pre-2006 have the most problems. Also, the gearbox's fluid should be changed at 55,000 and 115,000 kilometres (or 35,000 and 75,000 miles) so the car you're looking at should have had two changes by now. Check that it has and then look in detail at how the gearbox works. Does the 'PRNDS' indicator on the dash flash? Is there hesitation? Is it easy to get reverse?
No matter what turbodiesel car you look at you'll hear of turbo problems from some owners. Most of the time it's likely to be due to poor oil maintenance. So check the car's service history in terms of oil changes and that the oil level itself is right. They do use a bit of oil.
While you're checking out the car in detail, make sure the air conditioning can produce freezing air in just a few minutes, as these have been known to fail.
I'm probably making this sound worse than it is! I'd buy an A6 for myself - it's a good car - you just need to know what you're looking for and not get caught out by one of the few badly maintained examples out there.
Let us know how you get on.
@Shane_O_D