A Guide to the Engine Camshaft Position Sensor for the 2001-2005 Audi S6
Solve stalling, rough idle, and check engine lights by choosing the right sensor for your S6's 4.2L V8 engine.
- Your S6 has two sensors; a fault code like P0341 or P0346 will tell you which bank has the issue.
- For best results, use an OEM-quality brand like Bosch, as cheap sensors can fail quickly on German vehicles.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job that takes about 30 minutes per side and requires basic tools.
- If a new sensor doesn't fix the code, investigate the wiring and the camshaft adjuster solenoid before attempting more complex repairs.
Is Your Audi S6 Camshaft Position Sensor Failing?
A bad camshaft position sensor can cause noticeable problems with your car's performance. The engine's computer loses track of the precise camshaft timing, leading to a range of issues from annoying to serious. The most common sign is the check engine light turning on, but you might also experience other symptoms.
Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Position Sensor
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first and most obvious sign. The computer will store a trouble code, typically P0341 for Bank 1 (passenger side) or P0346 for Bank 2 (driver side).
- Rough Idle and Stalling: The engine may run poorly, shake at a stop, or even shut off unexpectedly.
- Hard Starting or No Start: Your S6 might take longer than usual to start, or it may crank without ever firing up. A completely failed sensor can prevent the car from starting at all, leaving you stranded.
- Poor Acceleration and Power Loss: With incorrect timing data, the engine can't produce power efficiently, making the car feel sluggish.
- Transmission Shifting Problems: As a safety measure, the vehicle's computer may lock the transmission in a single gear, known as "limp mode," to prevent potential engine damage.
Pro Tip: It Might Not Be the Sensor
Before you replace your sensors, be aware that other parts can cause the same error codes. On the Audi 4.2L V8, a faulty or stuck camshaft adjuster solenoid can trigger a camshaft sensor code even if the sensor is working perfectly. Also, inspect the sensor's wiring connector for damage or corrosion, as a bad connection can mimic a failed sensor.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When it comes to critical engine sensors for a German vehicle like your S6, quality matters. While many brands are available, they generally fall into a few tiers.
- Tier 1: OEM-Quality Brands (Bosch, Hella): Bosch is a well-known original equipment manufacturer for Audi and other German brands. Choosing a Bosch sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from the dealer without the high price tag. Hella is another highly reputable German brand for sensors. These brands are recommended for their reliability and precise fit.
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands (Delphi, Standard Ignition, Walker Products): These brands offer a good balance of quality and value. Delphi has mixed reviews in forums, with some users having success and others reporting issues, so it can be a gamble. Walker and Standard are generally considered reliable aftermarket choices.
- Tier 3: Budget Brands (URO Parts, and others): While the low price is tempting, budget sensors have a higher risk of being dead-on-arrival or failing prematurely. For a critical part like this, it's often worth spending more to avoid doing the job twice.
Cost to Replace an Audi S6 Camshaft Position Sensor
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Sensor (Dealer) | $150 - $250 (per sensor) |
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $21 - $136 (per sensor) |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $300 |
| Total (DIY) | $21 - $136 (per sensor) |
| Total (Shop) | $121 - $436 (per sensor) |
Note: Your 2001-2005 S6 has two camshaft position sensors. Costs are estimates and may vary by location and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many camshaft sensors does my 2001-2005 S6 have?
Your Audi S6 with the 4.2L V8 engine has two camshaft position sensors. One is for Bank 1 (passenger side in the US) and the other is for Bank 2 (driver side).
Where are the sensors located?
The sensors are on the front of the engine, located behind the upper timing belt covers on both the left and right sides of the engine.
What happens if I ignore a bad sensor?
Ignoring a failing sensor will lead to poor engine performance, bad fuel economy, and could cause the engine to stall while driving, which is a safety risk. Eventually, the car may not start at all.
What if a new sensor doesn't fix the P0341/P0346 code?
If a new sensor doesn't solve the problem, the issue is likely elsewhere. Check the wiring and connector for damage. The next most likely culprit is a faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid, which is a known issue that can trigger the same codes.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 058905161B 06C905163B
The 2001-2005 Audi S6 uses two 3-pin Hall-effect camshaft position sensors, one for each cylinder bank (Bank 1 and Bank 2).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi S6: