Problem Lookup âș Audi âș A6 âș 2016
Car problem report
2016 Audi A6 problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Audi A6 has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 3safety recalls
- 51owner complaints
- 0crash reports
- 2fire reports
- 15%fail the UK MOT
51 complaints, against an average of 28 for the other 13 Audi A6 model years.
Every Audi A6 model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Audi A6?
The components named most often in the 51 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Audi A6 owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 51 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why does my 2016 Audi A6 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?7 owners · 13.7%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Audi A6?6 owners · 11.8%
- Why does my 2016 Audi A6 overheat?5 owners · 9.8%
- Why does my 2016 Audi A6 idle rough, misfire or hesitate?4 owners · 7.8%
- Why does my 2016 Audi A6 vibrate or shake while driving?3 owners · 5.9%
Has the 2016 Audi A6 been recalled?
3 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Fuel System, Gasoline: Fuel Injection System: Fuel Rail Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Q7, A6 and A7 vehicles, and 2015-2018 Audi A8 vehicles. The left and right fuel rails may leak fuel.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase risk of a fire.
Fix: Audi has notified owners, and dealers will replace the left and right fuel rail, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 24DP.
Electrical System: Wiring Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Audi A6 Sedans and 2015 Audi A7 vehicles. The auxiliary heater electrical connector on these vehicles may have been incorrectly inserted into the auxiliary heater, possibly resulting in increased electrical resistance.
Risk: The extra resistance can cause the connector to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the auxiliary heater connector, replacing the auxiliary heater and connector, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 15, 2019. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 82C1.
Air Bags: Sensor: Occupant Classification Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S6 and S7, 2012-2018 A7 and A6 Sedan, and 2014-2018 RS7 vehicles equipped with basic seats (with or without heating). Stress or wear of the body-sensing mat within the front passenger seat may cause the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) control module to malfunction.
Risk: If the PODS module malfunctions, the front passenger air bag may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a PODS system repair kit, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 74D5.
Is the 2016 Audi A6 recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAThe mesh size of the oil strainer in the oil supply for both turbochargers is too small
Risk: The mesh size of the oil strainer in the oil supply for both turbochargers is too small.
Fix: The oil strainer will be replaced with a revised version with a larger mesh size.
UK DVSAThe locking mechanism in the hinged towing bracket could be faulty
Risk: Hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
Fix: The hinge module for the towing bracket must be checked and replaced if required.
UK DVSAFuel may escape from one or both fuel rails
Risk: It is possible that fuel may escape from one or both fuel rails (low-pressure side).
Fix: The fuel rails for the low-pressure side of both cylinder banks must be replaced on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSACoolant pump may overheat
Risk: Foreign particles in the engine coolant can lead to a blockage in the additional coolant pump and cause the pump to overheat.Foreign particles in the coolant can lead to a blockage in the additional coolant pump and cause the pump to overheat.
Fix: Recall the machines that are likely to be affected and update the software which will deactivate the additional coolant pump in the event of malfunction. If there has been a malfunction of the additional water pump it will be replaced.
UK DVSAAirbag/belt tensioners may not trigger in event of an accident
Risk: Due to an error in the manufacturing process the air bag and/or seat belt pretensioner may not trigger in the event of a collision
Fix: On affected vehicles replace air bag assembly and seta belt pretensioner where necessary.
EU Safety GateThe vehicles are equipped with control software regarded as unauthorised by the competent authorities.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Importer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 23/04/2021
EU Safety GateThe vehicles may be fitted with a towbar with a swivel mechanism that may have a defective locking pin.As a result, the pin could break while driving, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateIn certain vehicles, fuel can leak onto the engine fuel rail.Fuel leakage close to a source of ignition may increase the risk of the vehicle catching fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe auxiliary coolant pump may seize up.This could lead to the pump overheating after the engine has been switched off with the risk that the vehicle could catch fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe additional coolant pump can block due to foreign particles in the cooling system.This can result in the pump overheating which could lead to a fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDifferences in the mixture ratio for the initiating devices for the airbags or seat-belt pre-tensioners could lead to the airbags orâŠDifferences in the mixture ratio for the initiating devices for the airbags or seat-belt pre-tensioners could lead to the airbags or seat-belt pre-tensioners not activating in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2016 Audi A6 fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2016, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2016 Audi A6 owners report?
12 of the 51 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
There is a recall out for â2016 Audi A6 vehiclesâ the recalls are âfuel system railâ as well as âcoolant pumpâ. Both recalls are vin specific and what I find to be devastating is that both recall risk pertains to possible fire! I have the exact issues with my vehicle I even have the epc light coming on and the code is âfuel rail systemâ I also have an ongoing issue with my coolant system. I have documentation that Iâve paid out of pocket to take care of these issues, however being that there is no current open recalls under my vin number I do not believe mechanics know exactly what to do toâŠ
I own a 2016 Audi A6 3.0T. After filling the fuel tank completely, the vehicle only traveled approximately 190â200 miles before the fuel gauge indicated empty. This represents a sudden and significant loss of fuel range compared to normal operation. There are no warning lights, check engine lights, fuel smells, visible leaks, rough idle, or abnormal noises. The vehicle operates normally otherwise. The issue appears to involve excessive fuel consumption or incorrect fuel management without any driver warning. This condition poses a potential safety risk because the vehicle may unexpectedly runâŠ
The water pump on my 2016 Audi A6 has failed multiple times prematurely. The first water pump failed at 36,965 miles in May 2019. That repair was covered under an extended warranty I purchased. The second water pump failed around 83,000 miles in September 2025, and Audi is now quoting me $2,350 out of pocket to replace it. I am now facing a third water pump replacement, which is far earlier than expected for this type of component. These repeated failures create a significant safety concern, as sudden coolant loss can cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to engine failure or lossâŠ
This vehicle had a claim for water pump replacement and the 3.0 model has a recall for the turbo charger. This vehicle is experiencing the same issues and went from 70 mph to 0 and stalled on the freeway. Thankfully the semi and other vehicles were able to avoid me or my family would be reaching out instead of me. Currently the vehicle is parked in my garage because it is unsafe to drive. Can you please advise Audi to take responsibility and offer the same recalls on the 2.0 vehicles for the water pump and turbo charger because they have the same internal parts as the 3.0 vehicles that failedâŠ
Engine area of car caught fire with ignition off
The contact owns a 2016 Audi A6. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle suddenly experienced a loss of motive power and stalled. During the failure, the message Electric Power Control "EPC" was displayed. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the electric wiring harness located in the engine compartment had failed due to moisture intrusion and the harness along with an internal computer needed to be replaced. No further information was available. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was 49,000.
I took the vehicle into a repair shop because the check engine light is on. I was advised that the water pump is leaking and it needs to be replaced along with the thermostat. The turbo charger assembly also needs to be replaced. Both of these items appear to be deficient and were listed under recent recalls on similar Audi vehicles and this VIN was not included in either recall. However, it appears to be a similar concern and should be resolved by the Manufacturer.
At high speeds (around 65 or more), when I apply the brakes I can sense some vibration in the brakes. I mentioned to the dealer that the brakes are not smooth as in my other cars. I was told, it is because Audi is a "performance car." Now I know that it is just poorly built.
During annual oil change inspection the mechanic found that the coolant was leaking and that the water pump needed to be replaced. The car has under 48000 miles.
The contact owns a 2016 Audi A6. The contact stated that while refueling, the gas nozzle would frequently stop, causing gasoline to leak from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was discovered that the fuel tank sensor needed to be moved to another location on the vehicle. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair; however, the contact declined to seek a second opinion. The contact was assured by the dealer that the vehicle was safe to be driven. A few days after leaving the dealer, the vehicle stalled while driving at a slow speed, with the check engine warningâŠ
1. Vehicle airbag indicator has illumated. I haven't received a recall letter from manufacturer. Have concerns about driving with airbag light on. 2. There is a recall for electrical wiring. 3. Fuel system/ fuel rail is being recalled.
OK PURCHASED THE CAR OCTOBER 2019, IMMEDIATELY NOTICED A BURNING SMELL, IN THE CAR. TOOK OUT TO AUDI MULTIPLE TIMES ASK IF THERE WAS A LEAK, BEFORE THE WARRANTY RAN OUT. THEY SAID NO, NOW A YEAR LATER MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS COME ON. ONE DIAGNOSTIC DONE AT JIFFY LUBE READ A CODE THAT SAYS IT IS THE COMPUTER AUXILIARY OUTPUT. TOOK THE CAR TO AUDI TO DO A SECOND DIAGNOSTIC, THEY SAID ITS THE THERMOSTAT, AND COOLANT PUMP. MY CAR IS NOT EVER HEATING AND THE HEAT AND AIR WORK FINE. HOW IS IT NOW THAT THE CAR IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY THEY NOTICE THE LEAK IN THE COOLANT PUMP, WHEN I COMPLAINED ABOUTâŠ
2016 Audi A6: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Audi A6 reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 51 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Audi A6; the most common categories were engine (17, 33.3%), air bags (8, 15.7%), electrical system (8, 15.7%). There are 3 safety recalls. 2 mention a fire, 1 injury was reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Audi A6?
Across 51 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are engine (33.3% of complaints), air bags (15.7% of complaints), electrical system (15.7% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (11.8% of complaints), power train (9.8% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Audi A6 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2016 Audi A6; the most recent (campaign 19V035000, 2019-01-16) concerns Fuel System, Gasoline: Fuel Injection System: Fuel Rail. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2016 Audi A6 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
7 of the 51 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Audi A6 (13.7%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "This vehicle had a claim for water pump replacement and the 3.0 model has a recall for the turbo charger. This vehicle is experiencing the same issues and went from 70 mph to 0 and stalled on the freeway." (NHTSA complaint 11650550, March 2025). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Audi A6?
6 of the 51 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Audi A6 (11.8%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "I took the vehicle into a repair shop because the check engine light is on. I was advised that the water pump is leaking and it needs to be replaced along with the thermostat. The turbo charger assembly also needs to be replaced." (NHTSA complaint 11583388, April 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Audi A6 overheat?
5 of the 51 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Audi A6 (9.8%) describe the engine overheating or coolant loss. One owner wrote: "There is a recall out for â2016 Audi A6 vehiclesâ the recalls are âfuel system railâ as well as âcoolant pumpâ. Both recalls are vin specific and what I find to be devastating is that both recall risk pertains to possible fire!" (NHTSA complaint 11727798, March 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Audi A6 idle rough, misfire or hesitate?
4 of the 51 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Audi A6 (7.8%) describe rough idling, misfires or hesitation when accelerating. One owner wrote: "My wife was slowing this car down to make a right turn on a busy expressway, after she made the turn, the engine suddenly shut off and the 'stop/start deactivated manually restart your car" light came on." (NHTSA complaint 11072020, February 2018). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Audi A6 vibrate or shake while driving?
3 of the 51 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Audi A6 (5.9%) describe vibration or shaking while driving. One owner wrote: "At high speeds (around 65 or more), when I apply the brakes I can sense some vibration in the brakes. I mentioned to the dealer that the brakes are not smooth as in my other cars." (NHTSA complaint 11538985, August 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own A6
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only.