What are the most common problems with the 2018 Audi S6?

The 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine produces 450 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, offering exhilarating acceleration.

How many recalls does the 2018 Audi S6 have?

The 2018 Audi S6 currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2018 Audi S6 a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine produces 450 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, offering exhilarating acceleration. Quattro all-wheel drive provides excellent traction and stability in various conditions. The vehicle achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. A critical recall for the airbag system's occupant classification sensor requires verification of completion. With 179 TSBs, expect potential minor electrical or system glitches that may require dealer attention. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2018 Audi S6?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2018 Audi S6.

2018 Audi S6 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 2, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine produces 450 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, offering exhilarating acceleration.
Quattro all-wheel drive provides excellent traction and stability in various conditions.
The vehicle achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
A critical recall for the airbag system's occupant classification sensor requires verification of completion.

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Overview

2018 Audi S6

The 2018 Audi S6 is a potent performance sedan that blends everyday usability with a powerful V8 engine and Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive. It delivers strong acceleration and confident handling, wrapped in a sophisticated package. However, for the used car buyer, potential complexities and a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection and awareness of potential ownership costs.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addresses potential issues with the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) due to wear on the seat-sensing mat. This can lead to incorrect air bag deployment or non-deployment.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns1

Service Bulletins179

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower: 450HP
Torque: 406 lb–ft @ 1400 rpmLB-FT

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a powerful, all-weather performance sedan with a premium badge.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers expecting minimal repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Audi S6 Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Seating Capacity: 5
Horsepower: 450 hp
Torque: 406 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm
Transmission: Automatic (AM-S7)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
MSRP Range: $71,900 - $74,400
EPA Combined MPG: 18

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Air Bag System Malfunction (Occupant Classification Sensor)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Oil Leaks

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Synthetic Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer)

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2018 Audi S6 reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Audi S6 is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Audi S6 for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 399 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Audi S6?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Audi S6 is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.2/10. Practicality 4.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Audi S6?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Occupant Classification System Sensor (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Audi S6?

MSRP range is $71,900 - $74,400.

What engine is in the 2018 Audi S6?

Engine specs list V8 • 8 • 4.0. Output is 450 hp • 406 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm.

What transmission does the 2018 Audi S6 use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S6, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 S6 require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Audi S6?

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Audi S6?

9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2018 Audi S6?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S6, fuel economy range is 16-24 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2018 Audi S6?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S6, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Audi S6?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S6, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Audi S6 use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Audi S6, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Audi S6?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Audi S6?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Audi S6?

Alternative listed in this guide: 2018 BMW M3.