What's Wrong with the 3rd Generation (2005–2011) A6?

A6 owners have made 23 complaints about the 2005–2011 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 28th out of 39 Audi generations in overall reliability, with real interior and electrical concerns.

Compare With Other A6 Generations

Common 2005-2011 Audi A6 Problems

Some of the worst issues 3rd generation A6 owners have to deal with.

  1. Busted Timing Chains

    Audi's EA888 2.0-liter engine has a history of tensioner problems in its timing chain. The loose chain is to blame for multiple occurances of catastrophic engine failure. Audi was forced to offer settlement offers, including an extended war…

    Continue reading article "Busted Timing Chains" View of engine timing chain

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue View of engine timing chain

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

3rd Generation (2005–2011) A6 Key Numbers

  1. 7 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 23 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 28th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 39 eligible generations.