2019 Audi A6 Safety Report
2019 Audi A6: High Crash Test Scores Mask Significant Electrical System Reliability and Recall Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Audi A6
Reliability Score
The 2019 Audi A6 receives a reliability score of 45 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 2019 Audi A6
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Audi A6:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System Malfunction Leading To Vehicle Shutdown Numerous complaints describe the vehicle displaying 'Electrical System Malfunction' warnings, followed by a complete loss of power, engine shutdown, and loss of power steering/brakes while driving, often requiring towing. This is linked to recalls concerning the starter generator and gateway control module. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Starter Generator Failure Moisture entering the starter generator can cause a short circuit, increasing fire risk and leading to vehicle non-operation. This is a known issue with a specific recall (19V847000). |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, reducing the driver's view and increasing crash risk. This is covered by recall 23V656000. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Lane Departure Warning System Deactivation A software error can deactivate the lane departure warning system without driver notification, increasing crash risk. This was addressed by recall 23V007000. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Inaccurate Fuel Level Reading A faulty fuel level sender may provide inaccurate readings, potentially leading to an engine stall due to lack of fuel. This is covered by recall 22V188000. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Water Pump Failure Several complaints mention water pump failures, sometimes requiring expensive repairs not covered by warranty, despite similar issues in other VW Group vehicles. |
Medium | Occasional | 49000-50000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Audi A6:
The most prevalent issue, accounting for 41 out of 107 complaints, involves various electrical system malfunctions leading to critical failures like vehicle shutdown, loss of power, and non-functional safety features. This is directly linked to multiple recalls.
While fewer direct engine complaints (3), several electrical system failures impact engine operation, leading to stalls or reduced power. Water pump failures are also noted.
Complaints often link power train issues with electrical system failures, resulting in transmission malfunction warnings and the vehicle becoming undriveable.
Steering malfunctions, including loss of power steering or the steering wheel becoming tight, are reported, frequently in conjunction with broader electrical system failures.
Issues with the rearview camera not displaying, as noted in recall 23V656000, are a recurring problem.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Audi A6
Is the 2019 Audi A6 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Audi A6 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, side, and rollover, 4-star frontal). However, its safety is significantly undermined by a high volume of electrical system complaints (41 out of 107 total) and 7 recalls, many of which address critical failures like sudden power loss, fire risk from the starter generator, and non-functional safety systems (e.g., rearview camera, lane departure warning). While it performs well in a crash, its reliability and active safety system functionality are concerning.
What are common problems with the 2019 Audi A6?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Audi A6 revolve around the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, accounting for 41 complaints. These often manifest as 'Electrical System Malfunction' warnings, leading to vehicle shutdown, loss of power steering, and transmission issues. Other common problems include starter generator failures (linked to fire risk), rearview camera malfunctions, and water pump failures.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Audi A6?
Yes, the 2019 Audi A6 has 7 recalls. Key recalls address issues such as a software error affecting the lane departure warning system (23V007000), a software error preventing rearview camera display (23V656000), incorrectly labeled brake fluid caps (21V295000), liquid spills causing gateway control module shutdown (22V189000), inaccurate fuel level senders (22V188000), improperly manufactured airbags (21V007000), and moisture entering the starter generator causing a short circuit and fire risk (19V847000).
Does the 2019 Audi A6 have electrical issues?
Yes, the 2019 Audi A6 has significant and well-documented electrical issues. The 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' is the top complaint component with 41 reports, often describing catastrophic failures like the vehicle shutting down while driving, loss of power steering, and various malfunction warnings. Multiple recalls, including those for the starter generator, gateway control module, and fuel level sender, directly address electrical system defects.
What is the reliability of the 2019 Audi A6?
The reliability of the 2019 Audi A6 appears to be compromised, primarily due to widespread electrical system issues. Despite strong crash test ratings, the high number of complaints (107 total) and 7 recalls, many addressing critical electrical and safety system failures, indicate a concerning pattern of unreliability that can impact vehicle operation and safety.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Prospective buyers of a 2019 Audi A6 should be aware of the significant electrical system issues and numerous recalls; ensure all recall repairs have been completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on electrical components and the starter generator.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Audi A6
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Audi A6. The data includes 107 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Audi A6 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 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.