Models · Audi
Audi A4 B6 buying guide
The B6 A4 was launched in late 2000 as a saloon and Avant, with a Karmann-built cabriolet from 2002, and was replaced by the B7 in late 2004. The 1.8T is the favoured petrol and the 2.5 TDI V6 the pick of the diesels.
The versions
- Petrol: 1.6 (102PS), 2.0 (130PS), 2.0 FSI (150PS), 1.8T (150 to 190PS), 2.4 V6 (170PS) and 3.0 V6 (220PS)
- Diesel: 1.9 TDI (100 to 130PS) and 2.5 TDI V6 (155 to 180PS)
- 5- and 6-speed manuals, multitronic CVT, and 5- and 6-speed automatics
- Front-wheel drive or quattro, chosen by about 30 per cent of new buyers
- Saloon, Avant and cabriolet
What to check on a B6 A4
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
1.8T: misfires and coil packs
What to look for: Start the engine and feel for a regular stumble or shake at idle. On the drive, watch for the engine warning light flashing under acceleration. Look for invoices for new ignition coils.
Why it matters: The 1.8 turbo petrol has a history of ignition coil failure, causing poor starting and misfires. Most cars have probably had them replaced with more reliable parts by now. All four should be changed together, or the problem can come back.
multitronic gearbox behaviour
What to look for: On a multitronic automatic, drive from cold and in traffic. Pulling away and changes of speed should be smooth. Notice any jolting, the gearbox holding a ratio too long, or reluctance to drop down when you accelerate.
Why it matters: Bumpy changes can signal a problem with the multitronic, and from around 45,000 to 60,000 miles it can begin to hold gears longer than normal without warning. A smooth-driving gearbox is the main thing to confirm, and many owners simply choose a manual.
Cambelt and water pump
What to look for: Look in the history for the date and mileage of the last cambelt change, and whether the water pump was replaced with it.
Why it matters: A broken cambelt can cause major valve and piston damage. Specialists recommend changing the belt and water pump at around 50,000 miles (80,000km), and certainly before 62,000 miles (100,000km). A recent change with paperwork is a real plus.
Also in the full guide
- Turbo petrol: oil and heat
- Cooling system and air conditioning
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the B6 A4
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Audi.