2004 Audi A6 Reliability ReportD+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2004 Audi A6
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (major severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, other:storage:tank assembly.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2002 Audi A6 earns a 68.
Is the 2004 Audi A6 Worth Buying?
The 2004 Audi A6 offers compelling luxury and performance at a bargain used price, but it's a vehicle that demands a substantial ongoing commitment to maintenance and potential repairs. While its sophisticated engineering provides a premium driving experience, prospective owners must be prepared for the financial realities of German luxury ownership from this era, particularly regarding complex systems like the automatic transmission and electrical components.
Biggest Strengths
- Quattro AWD system durability
- High-quality interior materials and comfort
- Strong engine performance (especially 2.7T and 4.2L)
What Tends to Fail First on the 2004 Audi A6
The systems that break first on the 2004 Audi A6. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
2004 Audi A6 Recall History
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 AUDI A6, MODEL YEAR 2002-2003 S6 AND MODEL YEAR 2003 RS6 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.2L ENGINES AND MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 19, 2001, THROUGH JUNE 8, 2004. THE AGING OF THE PLASTIC MATERIAL IN THE FUEL TANK ROLLOVER VALVE COMBINED WITH BENDING STRESS FROM THE ALUMINUM VENTILATION LINE TO THE ROLLOVER VALVE NIPPLE MAY LEAD TO CRACKING OF THE NIPPLE. IF THIS HAPPENS, A FUEL LEAK MAY RESULT.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 68,240 MY 2001-2004 AUDI A6 QUATTRO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.7L, 2.8L, OR 3.0L ENGINES AND MY 2001-2005 ALLROAD QUATTRO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.7L OR 4.2L ENGINES. THE AGING OF THE PLASTIC MATERIAL IN THE FUEL TANK ROLLOVER VALVE COMBINED WITH BENDING STRESS FROM THE ALUMINUM VENTILATION LINE TO THE ROLLOVER VALVE NIPPLE MAY LEAD TO CRACKING OF THE NIPPLE. IF THIS HAPPENS, A FUEL LEAK MAY RESULT.
What breaks on the 2004 Audi A6?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 2004 Audi A6? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Other Audi A6 Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Audi A6. Click any year for its full report.
2004 Audi A6 Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2004 Audi A6
Parts and accessories matched to your 2004 Audi A6
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2004 Audi A6? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Audi A6's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Audi A6
Most Reliable Cars to Buy Used (Top 10 Ranked)
Get our expert-ranked list of the 10 most reliable used cars you can buy today, saving money and avoiding future headaches with smart choices.
Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner: Which Lasts Longer?
Get the definitive answer: Which truly lasts longer, the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner? Our comparison reveals their long-term durability.
Toyota Tacoma vs Chevy Colorado: Reliability Compared
Explore a head-to-head reliability comparison of the Toyota Tacoma vs. Chevy Colorado. Discover which truck truly stands out for long-term dependability.