Audi Audi A6 2004-2011 Drivetrain Specifications
Audi Audi A6 2004-2011

Audi Audi A6 2004-2011 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical guide for the 2004-2011 Audi A6 drivetrain system, including specifications, maintenance, and repair procedures for the transmission, differential, driveshaft, and quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Updated

2004-2011 Audi A6 Drivetrain Specifications Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the drivetrain components of the 2004-2011 Audi A6. It covers engine options, transmission types, drivetrain configurations, and key performance metrics. Use the sections below to navigate through the document and find specific information. Refer to the 'howTo' section for guidance on using the search and navigation features.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords such as 'engine', 'transmission', or 'quattro'. Results will highlight relevant sections and subsections.

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Key Specifications

Engine Power Range

170-350 HP

Torque Range

200-400 lb-ft

Transmission Options

5/6-speed Auto, 6-speed Manual

Drivetrain

Quattro AWD / FWD

Fuel Capacity

18.5 gallons

Available Specifications

Engine Specifications

This section provides detailed information about the engines available in the 2004-2011 Audi A6, including displacement, power output, and fuel type.

Gasoline Engines
  • 2.4L V6 FSI engine
  • 3.0L V6 FSI engine
  • 3.2L V6 FSI engine
  • 4.2L V8 FSI engine
  • Available horsepower: 170-350 HP
  • Available torque: 200-300 lb-ft
Diesel Engines
  • 2.0L Inline-4 TDI engine
  • 2.7L V6 TDI engine
  • 3.0L V6 TDI engine
  • Available horsepower: 140-225 HP
  • Available torque: 200-400 lb-ft

Transmission Specifications

This section details the transmission options available for the 2004-2011 Audi A6, including manual, automatic, and Tiptronic transmissions.

Automatic Transmissions
  • 5-speed Tiptronic automatic
  • 6-speed Tiptronic automatic
  • Available with paddle shifters on select models
  • Adaptive shifting based on driving conditions
  • Manual mode available for driver control
Manual Transmissions
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • Available on select engine configurations
  • Short-throw gearshift for precise shifting
  • Hydraulically actuated clutch
  • Optional S-tronic dual-clutch on later models

Drivetrain Types

This section explains the drivetrain configurations available for the 2004-2011 Audi A6, including quattro all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive options.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive
  • Permanent all-wheel drive system
  • Torque distribution: 40% front, 60% rear under normal conditions
  • Dynamic torque distribution based on driving conditions
  • Enhanced stability and traction control integration
  • Standard on V8 and higher-performance models
Front-Wheel Drive
  • Available on base and select engine configurations
  • Lighter weight for improved fuel efficiency
  • Simplified drivetrain for lower maintenance
  • Electronic differential lock (EDL) for improved traction
  • Optional on lower-end models

Key Performance Metrics

This section provides key performance metrics for the 2004-2011 Audi A6, including acceleration, top speed, and fuel economy.

Acceleration and Top Speed
  • 0-60 mph: 6.0-7.5 seconds depending on engine
  • Top speed: 130-155 mph (electronically limited)
  • Quattro models: improved acceleration and stability
  • Manual transmission models: slightly faster shifting
  • Diesel models: higher torque for better mid-range acceleration
Fuel Economy
  • Gasoline engines: up to 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
  • Diesel engines: up to 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway
  • Quattro models: slightly lower fuel economy due to added weight
  • Manual transmission models: improved fuel economy in city driving
  • Tiptronic models: optimized for highway efficiency

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
All-Wheel Drive (quattro)
Configuration
Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Platform
Volkswagen Group C6
Layout
Front-longitudinal
Fuel Type
Gasoline/Diesel

Dimensions

Wheelbase
108.7 in (2760 mm)
Ground Clearance
4.9 in (125 mm)
Driveshaft Length
64 in (1625 mm)
Differential Housing Size
8.5 in (215 mm) front, 9.5 in (240 mm) rear
Half Shaft Diameter
1.5 in (38 mm)
Universal Joint Angle
Up to 30 degrees
Center Differential Gear Ratio
1:1 (torque distribution)

Materials

Driveshaft
High-strength steel
Differential Housing
Cast iron
Axles
Forged steel
Cv Joints
Durable rubber compound
Gear Sets
High-strength steel alloy

Features

Drivetrain Type
  • quattro AWD system
Transmission Options
  • 6-speed manual
  • 6-speed Tiptronic automatic
  • 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch
Advanced Systems
  • Torque vectoring
  • Dynamic torque distribution
  • Self-locking center differential
Drivetrain Control
Bosch ESP 8.0 with EDL
Torque Distribution
40:60 (front:rear) under normal conditions
Steering Systems
  • Servotronic power steering
  • Dynamic steering (optional)

Safety Features

Traction Control
  • Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
  • Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
Stability Control
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Brake System
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Differential Protection
Thermal overload protection

Comfort Features

Suspension
  • Adaptive Air Suspension (optional)
  • Self-leveling rear suspension
Steering
Speed-sensitive power steering
Torque Management
Automatic torque distribution
Ride Quality
Multi-link suspension front and rear

Accessories

Service Kits
  • Driveshaft center bearing kit
  • Differential mounts
  • CV joint kit
Replacement Parts
  • Universal joints
  • Differential gears
  • Axle shafts
Upgrade Options
  • High-performance CV joints
  • Reinforced driveshaft
  • Limited-slip differential

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km)
Service Items
  • Driveshaft and universal joint inspection
  • Differential oil change
  • CV joint lubrication
  • Axle shaft inspection
  • Torque distribution system check
Maintenance Notes
Use synthetic oil meeting Audi specifications. Replace differential oil every 30,000 miles. Inspect driveshaft boots every 15,000 miles.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50000
Years: 4
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 50000
Years: 4
Coverage: Drivetrain components
Corrosion Perforation Warranty
Miles: Unlimited
Years: 12
Coverage: Body panels
Maintenance Warranty
Miles: 10000
Years: 1
Coverage: Scheduled maintenance

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Process
  • Precision machining of drivetrain components
  • Heat treatment for critical parts
  • Robot-assisted assembly
  • Quality control inspection
Quality Control
inspection Process: Endurance testing
Standards: ISO 9001:2015
Certifications: TÜV Rheinland
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of production materials
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • Emission reduction technologies
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Over 100,000 units
Production Cycle: Approximately 20 hours per unit
Tolerance Standards: DIN 2768-1

Service Information for drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000 - 7,500
6
  • Inspect driveshaft and universal joints
  • Check CV joint boots for cracks
  • Lubricate differential gears
  • Inspect axle shafts for damage
  • Check torque distribution system

Normal driving conditions. Adjust intervals for extreme conditions.

15,000
12
  • Replace differential oil
  • Inspect driveshaft center bearing
  • Check steering system components
  • Inspect suspension mounts
  • Test torque distribution

Use synthetic oil suitable for drivetrain components.

30,000
24
  • Inspect driveshaft for balance
  • Replace CV joint grease
  • Check universal joint play
  • Inspect differential housing
  • Perform system performance test

Special tools required for some procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2004-2011 Audi A6 use?

The 2004-2011 Audi A6 is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) systems. The quattro system uses a Torsen T-3 center differential, which provides a 40:60 torque split under normal conditions, favoring the rear wheels for improved handling dynamics.

Q2

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

Audi recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the differential and driveshaft, every 40,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first. The transmission fluid should be replaced every 50,000 miles for optimal performance and longevity.

Q3

What type of transmission is used in the 2004-2011 Audi A6?

The 2004-2011 Audi A6 is equipped with either a 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, or a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, depending on the model and trim. The Tiptronic and S tronic transmissions are designed for smooth shifting and improved fuel efficiency.

Q4

How do I identify if my Audi A6 has a quattro all-wheel drive system?

You can identify a quattro-equipped Audi A6 by checking for the 'quattro' badge on the rear of the vehicle or by verifying the VIN with an Audi dealership. Additionally, quattro models will have a driveshaft running to the rear differential, which is visible when inspecting the underside of the vehicle.

Q5

What is the torque capacity of the drivetrain in the Audi A6?

The drivetrain in the 2004-2011 Audi A6 is designed to handle up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque, depending on the engine and transmission configuration. Higher-performance models, such as the S6, may have reinforced components to accommodate increased torque levels.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi A6 Drivetrain Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 2004-2011 Audi A6 drivetrain, including detailed procedures for maintenance and repair.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive System Overview

Coming Soon

Technical overview of the quattro all-wheel drive system used in the Audi A6, including its operation and benefits.

Transmission Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing transmission fluid in the 2004-2011 Audi A6, including recommended fluid types and capacities.

Driveshaft and Differential Inspection Checklist

Coming Soon

Comprehensive checklist for inspecting and maintaining the driveshaft and differential components in the Audi A6.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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