2016 Audi S6 Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 Audi S6 and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2016 Audi S6 is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
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 S6 is leaking oil?

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.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2016 Audi S6?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2016 Audi S6, begin by locating the leak, which involves checking for visible signs of oil on the ground beneath your vehicle. Once you have a general area identified, inspect the engine components closely, paying particular attention to the oil filter, oil pan, valve cover gasket, and oil drain plug for any oil residue. It's also crucial to check the oil level; a significant drop may indicate a leak. If the source remains elusive, consider adding UV dye to the engine oil, as this can help illuminate the leak under UV light. For a more thorough investigation, a pressure test can be performed to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. If these steps do not yield results or if the situation appears complicated, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or an Audi dealership is advisable to ensure a proper diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the oil leak issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 Audi S6?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 Audi S6, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is the degradation of the oil pan gasket, which can wear out over time, leading to leaks that can compromise engine performance. Additionally, valve cover gaskets are known to deteriorate, allowing oil to escape from the top of the engine, which can be particularly messy and problematic. Another potential source of leaks is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component fails, it can result in significant oil loss. Furthermore, issues with the camshaft tensioner gasket can also lead to leaks, as can a worn rear main seal, which is located at the back of the engine. Addressing these leaks promptly is essential not only for maintaining the integrity of your engine but also for ensuring the longevity of your vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you catch these issues early, allowing for a DIY fix before they escalate into more serious problems.

How urgent is it to address an oil leak in a 2016 Audi S6?

Addressing an oil leak in a 2016 Audi S6 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The consequences of neglecting this issue can be severe, leading to significant engine damage and safety hazards. Oil plays a critical role in lubricating engine components, and a leak can result in insufficient lubrication, increasing friction and wear on vital parts. This not only jeopardizes the engine's performance but can also lead to catastrophic engine failure if oil levels drop too low. Moreover, an oil leak poses safety risks, as spilled oil can create slippery conditions on the road, endangering both the driver and other motorists. Therefore, it is essential to address any signs of an oil leak immediately to protect your vehicle's integrity and ensure safe driving conditions. Taking prompt action can save you from costly repairs and enhance the longevity of your Audi S6.

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