Buying a used Audi A6 (1997-2002)
Audi's radical new look seen first in the A6 had a profound influence on world car stylingAudi's first major break from its evolutionary styling updates that linked previous models back to the 1970s and earlier, stopped the world's designers in their tracks. Because this landmark A6's striking sculptured design is still exerting a profound influence on the world's 2008 models, it is hard to reconcile its 1997 arrival beside the EL Falcon and VT Commodore.
It was backed by engineering integrity that cut 40kg from a body that was 50 per cent stiffer with a benchmark 0.28 Cd. High-quality cabin design was a mix of modern dash and timeless pleated seats with electronic aids only just filtering into today's cars.
Audi continued with its longitudinal engine ahead of the front axle layout shared with Subaru but offered a choice of front drive and Quattro models. Reliability was dramatically improved with efficient 30 valve 2.4/2.8-litre V6 engines that can bring extra costs as the kms add up.
Desirable Avant wagon arrived a year after the sedan's October 1997 local launch. Post-February 2002 upgrade with choice of 2.4, 2.8, 3.0, 2.7 Turbo V6 and 4.2 V8 petrol engines are in another price league compared to overlooked and bargain-priced earlier models which now must be valued in the shadow of BMW's best-ever E39 5-Series.
PRICES:
Early Audi reputation for trouble even if not applicable here helps pull first examples with smaller 2.4 V6 and front drive back to a sub-$15,000 starting price. More desirable 2.8 V6 will fetch a $3,000 premium but the real prize is the 2.8 Quattro that cost $100,000 new and can now be found in the $20-30,000 range. An early 4.2 QuattroV8 starts at the top end of this range.
CHECKPOINTS:
- Early ABS technology was main premature failure item which can cost $800-2000 to rectify when it also takes out traction control and other functions. Test that it works and ABS warning systems have not been disconnected.
- Visual dash display unit fails and LCD unit can cost up to $800 to repair so most owners don't bother. Check and allow for in final price if not operative.
- Cam belt, water pump and thermostat should be replaced together to avoid a repeat of big labour cost to access them. Engine location ahead of front axle is a tight fit against front structure requiring special tools for most repairs or removal of front which an Audi expert can achieve inside two hours compared to almost a day for a first-timer.
- Variable cam solenoids will drop oil earlier than some others and should be addressed during the cambelt changeover if starting to weep when access is easier.
- Advanced double wishbone front end can chew through uprights and upper arms every 80,000km depending on usage. Poor quality replacements will last a third of that so check for shortcuts.
- Superb auto lasts better than most but fluid changes and a check every 80,000km is recommended for long life.
- Oil consumption better than previous Audis with a one litre top-up usually required before the 15,000km service. Better to replace the oil at this point. Engine thrives on quality synthetic oil.
- Allow for new brake rotors every third service or 50-60,000km depending on driver. Check power steering lines for minor leaks usually caused by loose clamps.
- Unusual and unavoidable tyre wear on inner edge of rear tyres is generated by front drive's torsion beam rear axle. Quattro's multi-link rear end is much kinder to rear tyres which should be premium European or equivalent. Cheap 18 or 19-inch wheel and tyre upgrades destroy A6 refinement.
- Hazard and indicator switch failures can be an issue otherwise interior is long-lived providing leather is given regular conditioning.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
