2013 Audi A6 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2013 Audi A6 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 2013 Audi A6 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 2013 Audi A6 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2013 Audi A6?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2013 Audi A6, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues. Start by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a loose or faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to the vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will allow you to retrieve specific error codes that indicate the nature of the problem. Once you have the codes, take the time to research their meanings, as this will help you narrow down the potential issues. Additionally, inspect essential components such as the air filter, spark plugs, and battery to confirm they are functioning properly, as any malfunction in these areas can also illuminate the check engine light. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2013 Audi A6?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2013 Audi A6, it can be a source of concern for any car owner. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase emissions. Another simple issue could be a loose or damaged gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks. More complex problems may involve the catalytic converter, where inefficiencies or failures can trigger the light. Additionally, issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can result in engine misfires, prompting the check engine light to activate. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can also disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to similar warnings. Lastly, an engine misfire, often caused by worn spark plugs or low fuel pressure, is another potential reason for the light. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis if the check engine light remains illuminated.

What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 2013 Audi A6?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2013 Audi A6, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid serious repercussions. Ignoring this warning can lead to significant engine damage or safety hazards, especially if the light is flashing, which indicates a critical issue that requires immediate attention. Start by safely pulling over and turning off the engine to prevent further complications. A common yet often overlooked cause of the check engine light is a loose or damaged gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened, as this simple fix can sometimes resolve the issue. If the light persists, consider performing a diagnostic scan, which can be done at many auto parts stores, to pinpoint the underlying problem. Once you have identified the issue, take the necessary steps to address it, whether that involves repairs or part replacements. Additionally, maintaining a regular service schedule for your Audi A6 is essential in preventing future occurrences of the check engine light, as routine maintenance can help catch potential problems before they escalate. By being proactive and attentive to your vehicle's signals, you can safeguard its performance and longevity.

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