Audi Audi A6 2004-2011 Suspension Specifications
Audi Audi A6 2004-2011

Audi Audi A6 2004-2011 Suspension Specifications

Comprehensive technical guide for the 2004-2011 Audi A6 suspension system, including detailed specifications, alignment settings, torque values, and maintenance tips for front and rear suspension components.

Updated

Suspension Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the suspension specifications for the 2004-2011 Audi A6. It includes technical details, components, adjustments, and key measurements to help users understand and maintain their vehicle's suspension system. Use this guide to identify components, understand suspension types, and perform basic adjustments. Refer to the sections below for in-depth information.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'spring rate,' 'shock absorber,' or 'ride height.' This will help you quickly locate relevant details within the document.

Navigate through the sections by selecting the major categories (e.g., Front Suspension, Rear Suspension). Within each section, use the subsections to find specific details. Start with the Quick Reference section for key specifications.

Key Specifications

Front Spring Rate

85-110 N/mm

Rear Spring Rate

80-100 N/mm

Anti-Roll Bar Diameter (Front)

24-26 mm

Anti-Roll Bar Diameter (Rear)

20-22 mm

Suspension Travel (Front/Rear)

70/60 mm

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

The front suspension of the 2004-2011 Audi A6 features a MacPherson strut design with lower wishbones. It is designed for precise handling and stability. This section details the components, adjustments, and technical specifications.

Front Suspension Components
  • MacPherson strut with coil spring
  • Lower wishbone with ball joint
  • Anti-roll bar with mounting links
  • Steering knuckle with hub carrier
  • Stabilizer bushings
Front Suspension Adjustments
  • Camber adjustment via eccentric bolts
  • Toe adjustment via steering knuckle
  • Spring preload adjustment
  • Anti-roll bar link length adjustment
  • Strut damping settings (if equipped with adaptive suspension)

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension of the 2004-2011 Audi A6 utilizes a self-leveling trapezoidal-link axle design. This setup provides a balance of comfort and handling. This section covers the components, adjustments, and technical details.

Rear Suspension Components
  • Trapezoidal-link axle with torsion beam
  • Gas-filled shock absorbers
  • Coil springs with integrated helper springs
  • Anti-roll bar with mounting brackets
  • Trailing arms with bushings
Rear Suspension Adjustments
  • Ride height adjustment via coil spring preload
  • Toe adjustment via eccentric cam
  • Camber adjustment via shim plates
  • Anti-roll bar stiffness adjustment
  • Shock absorber damping settings (if equipped with adaptive suspension)

Suspension Components and Materials

The suspension system of the 2004-2011 Audi A6 is constructed from high-strength materials to ensure durability and performance. This section details the materials and components used in the suspension system.

Materials and Construction
  • High-strength steel for wishbones and links
  • Aluminum for strut housings and knuckles
  • Polyurethane for bushings and mounts
  • Steel for coil springs
  • Gas-filled chambers for shock absorbers

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
multi-link suspension
Configuration
front and rear independent
Platform
Audi A6 C6
Material
aluminum and steel components
Location
front and rear axles
Wheelbase
108.7 inches (2759 mm)

Dimensions

Spring Diameter
55 mm (2.17 in)
Shock ABSorber Length
18.9 inches (480 mm)
Stabilizer Bar Diameter Front
20 mm (0.79 in)
Stabilizer Bar Diameter Rear
18 mm (0.71 in)
Bushing Size
45 mm (1.77 in)
Coil Spring Rate
100 N/mm (front), 90 N/mm (rear)
Ride Height
5.3 inches (134 mm) front, 5.1 inches (130 mm) rear

Materials

Control Arm
forged aluminum alloy
Knuckle
cast aluminum alloy
Subframe
high-strength steel
Stabilizer Bar
spring steel
Bushings
polyurethane elastomer

Features

Ride Quality
  • multi-link rear suspension
  • self-leveling suspension
  • anti-dive and anti-squat geometry
  • progressive-rate coil springs
  • adaptive damping system
Handling Characteristics
  • variable assist power steering
  • speed-dependent steering ratio
  • rear wheel steering capability
  • dynamic stability control integration
  • torque vectoring
Suspension Control
  • electronic suspension control
  • driver-selectable ride modes
  • automatic ride height adjustment
  • load-leveling capability
  • integral steering system
Safety integration
  • crash-active suspension response
  • roll-over protection integration
  • deformation zones for impact absorption
  • suspension failure monitoring
  • emergency lowering system
Comfort Enhancements
  • acoustic insulation of suspension components
  • ride comfort optimization
  • road noise reduction
  • vibration damping
  • air suspension option

Safety Features

Load Limiting
  • suspension load limiters
  • spring travel limiters
  • shock absorber overload protection
Impact Protection
  • energy-absorbing deformation zones
  • reinforced suspension mounting points
  • crash-optimized suspension components
Stability Control
  • electronic stability program (ESP)
  • traction control system (TCS)
  • roll stability control
  • cornering brake control (CBC)

Comfort Features

Ride Quality Settings
  • comfort mode
  • auto mode
  • dynamic mode
  • individual mode
  • off-road mode
Noise Reduction
  • sound-dampening bushings
  • insulated suspension mounts
  • acoustic shielding
  • vibration-isolating subframe
Adjustability
  • manual ride height adjustment
  • electronic ride height adjustment
  • cornering light function
  • dynamic turning lights
Convenience
  • automatic ride height lowering at speed
  • parking mode ride height
  • trailer stabilization assist
  • towing mode suspension settings

Accessories

Suspension Kits
  • lowering springs
  • coilover suspension kits
  • air suspension conversion
  • sport suspension package
  • off-road suspension lift
Handling Enhancements
  • anti-sway bar kits
  • camber adjustment kits
  • stabilizer bar links
  • sport-tuned dampers
  • adjustable control arms
Protection
  • suspension skid plates
  • control arm guards
  • steering rack protectors
  • subframe reinforcement
  • cv joint guards

Maintenance

Service interval
15,000 miles (24,140 km) or 12 months
Service Items
  • inspect suspension components
  • check shock absorbers
  • replace stabilizer bar links
  • lubricate bushings
  • tighten suspension bolts
Maintenance Notes
  • use only approved lubricants
  • replace worn components immediately
  • follow torque specifications
  • check ride height periodically
  • perform alignment after suspension work

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 50,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: suspension components
Extended
Miles: 100,000 miles
Years: 6 years
Coverage: suspension system
Powertrain
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: suspension-related powertrain components
Corrosion
Miles: unlimited miles
Years: 12 years
Coverage: perforation of suspension components

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Facility
Neckarsulm, Germany
Manufacturing Process
  • robotic welding
  • CNC machining
  • aluminum forging
  • steel stamping
  • surface coating
Quality Control
inspection: 100% component inspection
Testing: dynamic and static load testing
Certification: ISO/TS 16949 compliant
Sustainability Practices
  • recycled materials usage
  • energy-efficient manufacturing
  • waste reduction programs
  • environmentally-friendly coatings
Production Metrics
Cycle Time: 120 seconds per component
Throughput: 500 units per day
Defect Rate: less than 1%
Warranty Claim Rate: 0.5%

Service Information for Suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to the suspension system

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect suspension components for wear or damage
  • Check shock absorbers for leaks or damping issues
  • Replace stabilizer bar links if worn
  • Lubricate suspension bushings
  • Check and tighten all suspension bolts

Perform wheel alignment if any suspension component is replaced

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Replace shock absorbers if showing signs of wear
  • Inspect coil springs for sagging or damage
  • Check stabilizer bars for bending or damage
  • Inspect control arms for ball joint wear
  • Check ride height and adjust if necessary

Use only OEM or equivalent parts for replacement

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Perform full suspension overhaul if necessary
  • Replace all suspension bushings
  • Inspect and replace subframe mounts
  • Check and replace steering rack components
  • Perform dynamic suspension testing

Special tools may be required for certain procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

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

The 2004-2011 Audi A6 features a multi-link front and rear suspension system. The front suspension uses a four-link design with upper and lower control arms, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal-link setup. This configuration provides superior handling, stability, and ride comfort.

Q2

What is the recommended ride height for the Audi A6 suspension?

The factory ride height for the 2004-2011 Audi A6 is approximately 150 mm (5.9 inches) from the ground to the bottom of the front bumper. However, this can vary slightly depending on the trim level and optional adaptive air suspension, which adjusts ride height dynamically.

Q3

How do I know if my Audi A6 suspension components need replacement?

Common signs of worn suspension components include uneven tire wear, excessive bouncing or swaying, knocking noises over bumps, and a noticeable drop in ride height. Inspect the control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, and springs for wear or damage. Use a torque wrench to ensure all bolts are tightened to factory specifications (e.g., front lower control arm bolt: 90 Nm + 90°).

Q4

Can I install aftermarket suspension components on my Audi A6?

While aftermarket suspension components are available, it is recommended to use genuine Audi parts or OEM-equivalent components. Aftermarket parts may affect ride quality, handling, and warranty coverage. Always ensure compatibility with your specific model and trim, as the 2004-2011 Audi A6 has variations in suspension design for different engines and drivetrains.

Q5

What is the torque specification for the Audi A6 suspension bolts?

Torque specifications vary by component. For example, the front upper control arm bolt requires 50 Nm + 90°, while the rear lower control arm bolt requires 70 Nm + 90°. Always refer to the official Audi service manual for precise torque values and tightening sequences to ensure proper installation and safety.

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 Suspension Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official Audi service manual detailing suspension system maintenance, repair procedures, and torque specifications.

Audi Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Catalog of genuine Audi suspension components, including part numbers and compatibility information for the 2004-2011 A6.

Suspension Diagnostic Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide to diagnosing common suspension issues, including noise, vibration, and handling problems.

Adaptive Air Suspension Overview

Coming Soon

Technical overview of the optional adaptive air suspension system, including operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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