2016 Audi A6 Safety Report
2016 Audi A6: Excellent Crash Test Scores Undermined by Recurrent Engine, Fuel System, and Airbag Issues, Including Fire Risks
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Audi A6
Reliability Score
The 2016 Audi A6 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Audi A6
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Audi A6:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Pump Failure Multiple complaints detail premature water pump failures, leading to coolant leaks, overheating, and engine stalling, with some owners experiencing repeat failures. |
High | Common | 36000-83000 miles |
| Fuel Rail Leaks A recall (NHTSA 19V035) addresses leaking fuel rails, posing a significant fire risk. Complaints mention fuel gauge inaccuracies and fuel spills during refueling. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Auxiliary Heater Electrical Connector Overheating A recall (NHTSA 15V715) indicates that an incorrectly installed electrical connector can overheat, increasing the risk of fire, aligning with reported fire incidents. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Occupant Classification System Malfunction A recall (NHTSA 18V724) warns that a malfunctioning PODS module could prevent proper front passenger airbag deployment, increasing injury risk. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction Complaints describe the system erroneously detecting objects and engaging brakes, creating a rear-end collision risk, and camera failures rendering the system unavailable. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Steering System Failure Reports of sudden steering column or electronic steering control module failures, leading to loss of steering ability and 'Steering Malfunction' warnings. |
High | Occasional | 81000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Audi A6:
Frequent issues include water pump failures, overheating, loss of motive power, and engine stalling, contributing to 9 out of 50 complaints.
Concerns about airbag indicator lights and potential deployment issues, directly linked to a recall regarding the occupant classification system, accounting for 6 complaints.
Problems with fuel leaks, inaccurate fuel gauges, and refueling difficulties, consistent with the fuel rail recall, making up 3 complaints.
Vibrations during braking at highway speeds, even after rotor replacements, reported by owners, contributing to 3 complaints.
Malfunctions where the system incorrectly applies brakes or becomes unavailable due to camera issues, noted in 2 complaints.
Sudden steering failures, including steering column and electronic control module issues, leading to loss of steering, reported in 2 complaints.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Audi A6
Is the 2016 Audi A6 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Audi A6 received excellent 5-star crash test ratings across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover). However, it has 50 complaints, including 2 fires and 1 injury, and is subject to 3 safety recalls addressing critical issues like fuel leaks, electrical overheating (both fire risks), and potential airbag deployment failures. While crash protection is strong, owners should be aware of these known mechanical and electrical vulnerabilities.
What are common problems with the 2016 Audi A6?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Audi A6 are related to the ENGINE (9 complaints), primarily premature water pump failures leading to leaks and overheating. AIR BAGS (6 complaints) are also a concern due to a recall for the occupant classification system. Other common problems include FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM issues (3 complaints) like fuel leaks and refueling difficulties, and SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints) experiencing vibrations.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Audi A6?
Yes, the 2016 Audi A6 has 3 safety recalls. These include a recall for leaking fuel rails (NHTSA 19V035) which can cause a fire, an auxiliary heater electrical connector that can overheat (NHTSA 15V715) also posing a fire risk, and a recall for the occupant classification system (NHTSA 18V724) that could prevent proper front passenger airbag deployment.
Does the 2016 Audi A6 have fire risks?
Yes, the 2016 Audi A6 has documented fire risks. There are 2 reported fire incidents among the 50 complaints. Furthermore, two of the three recalls directly address fire hazards: one for leaking fuel rails (NHTSA 19V035) and another for an auxiliary heater electrical connector that can overheat (NHTSA 15V715).
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Audi A6?
When considering a used 2016 Audi A6, prioritize verifying that all 3 safety recalls have been addressed. Pay close attention to the engine for signs of coolant leaks or overheating, as water pump failures are common. Also, check the functionality of the forward collision avoidance system and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations during braking. A pre-purchase inspection by an Audi specialist is highly recommended.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2016 Audi A6's significant recall history and recurring mechanical issues, particularly with the engine and fuel system; ensure all recalls are completed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Audi A6
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Audi A6. The data includes 50 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Audi A6 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.