2016 Audi A6 Quattro Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Audi A6 Quattro and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, monitor your dashboard gauges for any unusual readings that might indicate a specific problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing insights into the underlying issue. After gathering this information, inspect the spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can also cause the light to illuminate. Additionally, examine the mass airflow sensor and the oxygen sensor for dirt or damage, as these components are vital for optimal engine performance. Lastly, consider checking the catalytic converter for any signs of malfunction. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, it indicates that the vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a potential issue that requires attention. Common problems that could trigger this warning include a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. A loose or damaged gas cap is another frequent cause, as it can allow fuel vapors to escape, prompting the light to turn on. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also activate the check engine light. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor may disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, while problems with spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to misfires, further contributing to the warning. Lastly, an engine misfire, which can arise from various factors including ignition system faults or fuel delivery issues, is another reason the check engine light may illuminate. It is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to address these issues promptly to ensure optimal vehicle performance and prevent further damage.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues with your engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to more severe mechanical problems, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Additionally, driving with the check engine light on can adversely affect your vehicle's fuel efficiency and overall performance, leading to a less enjoyable driving experience. While some issues may be minor and easily fixable, it is essential to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to prevent complications that could arise from neglect. Therefore, addressing the check engine light promptly is not just advisable; it is a necessary step in maintaining the health and longevity of your Audi A6 Quattro.

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