Guide to the 2006-2018 Audi A6 Quattro Automatic Transmission Mount
Experiencing clunks or vibrations in your A6 Quattro? Your transmission mount might be the culprit.
- Primary symptoms of failure are clunking noises when shifting and excessive vibration in the cabin.
- Driving with a bad mount can cause damage to other drivetrain and exhaust components over time.
- For best results and to maintain ride quality, OEM or OE-supplier mounts are recommended over budget brands like Anchor, which may increase vibration.
- The replacement is a manageable DIY job for many owners, typically taking 1-2 hours.
Is Your A6 Quattro's Transmission Mount Failing?
A worn-out transmission mount can make your smooth, premium sedan feel rough and unrefined. Because these mounts are made with rubber, they can crack, sag, or break down over time from heat, road salt, and leaking fluids. When the mount fails, the transmission can move excessively, leading to a number of noticeable problems.
Key Failure Symptoms
🎬 Watch: 5 common symptoms of a failing transmission mount- Clunking or Banging Noises: The most common sign is a distinct "clunk" when you shift gears (especially from Park to Drive or Reverse), accelerate hard, or brake suddenly. This is the sound of the transmission assembly moving and hitting against the chassis.
- Excessive Vibrations: You may feel unusual vibrations through the floor, seats, or steering wheel, particularly at idle while in gear or when accelerating at low RPMs. This happens because the failed mount can no longer absorb drivetrain vibrations.
- Drivetrain Slop: The car might feel less responsive, with a slight delay or jerk when you get on or off the gas. This feeling of "slop" is due to the unsecured movement of the transmission.
Don't Ignore a Bad Mount
Continuing to drive with a failed transmission mount can put extra stress on other expensive components, including the engine mounts, driveshaft, CV joints, and exhaust system. Addressing it early can prevent a chain reaction of repairs.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
When shopping for a replacement, you'll find a few tiers of quality. For a premium vehicle like the A6 Quattro, the quality of the mount's rubber compound is crucial for maintaining ride quality and avoiding unwanted vibrations.
- OEM / OE Supplier: Genuine Audi parts or parts from original equipment suppliers (like Lemforder or Corteco) offer the best fit and performance, matching the original ride comfort and durability. This is the safest, albeit most expensive, option.
- Standard Aftermarket (Anchor, Pioneer Cable): Brands like Anchor and Pioneer offer a budget-friendly solution. However, owner feedback for these brands is mixed. Many forum users report that economy mounts use harder rubber compounds that can increase cabin vibration. While they will secure the transmission, they may not restore the original smooth feel of your Audi. One user noted Pioneer quality was slightly better than Anchor, but neither matched OEM standards. These are functional replacements if budget is the primary concern.
A Note on Generations
The 2006-2018 range covers two different A6 generations: the C6 (2006-2011) and the C7 (2012-2018). The transmission mount design is different between them. The C6 platform may use two mounts, while the C7 uses a single, central mount. Always verify the part number and fitment for your specific model year before ordering.
Replacement Cost Breakdown
The cost to replace a transmission mount varies based on the parts you choose and whether you do the work yourself.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount | $82.15 - $126.60 |
| New OEM Mount | $330 - $350 |
| Shop Labor | $177 - $260 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $514 - $603 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a difficult DIY job?
For a C7 model (2012-2018), the job is considered relatively easy for someone with basic mechanical skills and tools. It typically takes under an hour. 🎬 See how to replace the mount on a C7 Audi You will need to safely raise the vehicle, support the transmission with a jack, and remove a few bolts, some of which may be triple-square types. The C6 (2006-2011) may be slightly more involved but is also a feasible DIY project.
🎬 Watch this DIY walkthrough for C6 Audi transmission mountsAre there any recalls or TSBs for this part?
There are no major safety recalls for the transmission mount on the 2006-2018 A6 Quattro. However, Audi did issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 2029665/2) for a creaking noise from the transmission mount area, especially when the vehicle is cold. The solution is to replace the mount with an updated part.
Will a new mount fix my car's vibration?
If the transmission mount is the cause, then yes, a replacement should make the car feel significantly smoother. However, vibrations can also be caused by failing engine mounts, unbalanced tires, or driveshaft issues. It's common for engine and transmission mounts to wear out around the same time.
What's the difference between a mount and a mount insert?
A mount is the entire component that holds the transmission. An insert, like those sold by performance brands, is a piece of billet aluminum or stiff polyurethane designed to fill the voids in the original rubber mount. Inserts are a performance upgrade to reduce drivetrain movement for crisper shifting, but they will not fix a mount that is already broken or completely worn out.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4G0399153T 4M0399153AA 4G0399153A 4M0399153Q
The transmission mount for the A6 Quattro is a single, rear-mounted rubber and metal assembly that bolts to the transmission and the vehicle's subframe. It serves to both support the transmission and dampen vibrations. Some C7 models require a 10mm triple square bit for removal.
We Have This Part in Stock
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 A6 Quattro: