Guide to Direct Ignition Coils for the 2008-2012 Audi A6 Quattro
If your V6 engine is misfiring or running rough, a failing ignition coil is a likely and easy-to-fix problem.
- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe misfire; you should not drive the vehicle for long periods to avoid catalytic converter damage.
- It is highly recommended to replace all six ignition coils at once, as they fail at similar rates.
- While replacing coils, inspect for oil leaks in the spark plug tubes, which can cause premature failure.
- Choosing an OEM supplier brand like Bremi or Hella can provide dealer-level quality without the high cost.
Is Your Audi A6 Quattro Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil
A failing ignition coil is a common issue on many vehicles, including the C6 generation Audi A6. When a coil goes bad, the spark plug for that cylinder can't fire properly. This causes an engine misfire, which you'll feel as a shake, shudder, or loss of power. Fortunately, replacing ignition coils is a straightforward job that most owners can do themselves.
Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil
A bad coil will make itself known. Look out for these common signs:
- Check Engine Light: A misfire will almost always trigger the check engine light. If it's flashing, it signals a severe misfire that could damage your expensive catalytic converter. You should reduce speed and get the vehicle checked as soon as possible.
- Rough Idle and Vibration: The engine will feel shaky or vibrate, especially when stopped at a light.
- Hesitation or Loss of Power: When you accelerate, the car may feel sluggish, sputter, or jerk.
- Worse Fuel Economy: With one cylinder not firing correctly, your engine burns more fuel to compensate.
- Gasoline Smell: A failing coil can lead to unburnt fuel passing into the exhaust, which you might smell.
Check for Oil Leaks
When replacing your coils, inspect the spark plug wells for oil. A leaking valve cover gasket can cause oil to pool around the coil and spark plug, leading to premature coil failure. If you see oil, you should replace the valve cover gaskets to prevent the new coils from failing.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
You don't need to buy a genuine Audi-branded part to get your A6 running smoothly again. Many aftermarket brands produce high-quality coils, and some are even the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that made the part for Audi in the first place. Here’s a breakdown of the brands available:
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
These brands are known to be original suppliers to Audi and other German automakers or have a reputation for equivalent quality. They are a reliable choice for longevity and performance.
- Bremi: Often cited as an OEM supplier for Volkswagen and Audi ignition components. A solid choice that is expected to match original performance.
- Hella: A major German automotive parts supplier with a strong reputation for quality electronics.
- Denso: A top-tier OEM supplier for many car brands. While more associated with Japanese vehicles, their aftermarket parts are widely respected for quality and reliability.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
These brands offer a good balance of quality and price. They are a dependable alternative to premium brands.
- Beck Arnley: This brand sources parts from various manufacturers, including OEM suppliers. They focus on matching the original part's form, fit, and function, and you might even receive a re-boxed OEM part.
Tier 3: Economy Aftermarket
These brands provide a functional replacement at a lower cost, but may not have the same long-term durability as premium options.
- Prenco: An aftermarket brand that produces a wide range of ignition components.
- Facet: Another aftermarket manufacturer offering a budget-friendly alternative.
Pro Tip: Replace Coils and Plugs Together
It is highly recommended to replace all six ignition coils at the same time. When one coil fails due to age and heat cycles, the others are likely not far behind. Since you already have the engine cover off, it's also the perfect time to replace your spark plugs if they are due. Worn spark plugs can strain the ignition coils, causing them to fail sooner.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
Searches for the 2008-2012 Audi A6 Quattro did not reveal any specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA directly related to ignition coil failure. However, earlier Audi models did experience coil pack recalls. There were recalls for this vehicle generation related to fuel hoses that could degrade and leak, posing a fire risk.
Cost of Replacing Ignition Coils on a 2008-2012 Audi A6 Quattro
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Coil) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $37.39 - $80.41 |
| New OEM (Audi Branded) | $50 - $90 |
| Shop Labor (All 6 Coils) | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which ignition coil is bad?
The best way is to use an OBD-II scanner. It will read the trouble code, such as P0301 for a misfire in cylinder 1, P0302 for cylinder 2, and so on. If you don't have a scanner, you can swap the coil from the suspected bad cylinder with a coil from a good cylinder. Clear the codes, run the engine, and scan again. If the misfire code moved to the new cylinder, you've confirmed the coil is bad.
Is it difficult to replace the ignition coils myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The coils are located on top of the engine and are easily accessible after removing the plastic engine cover. The job requires basic hand tools like a screwdriver and a socket set. Each coil is held in by a small bolt and an electrical connector.
Should I replace all six coils at once?
Yes, it is strongly recommended. Ignition coils are exposed to the same heat and wear over time. If one has failed, the others may fail soon after. Replacing them all at once saves you from having to do the same job again in the near future.
Is an OEM-branded coil better than a quality aftermarket one?
Not necessarily. Brands like Bremi, Hella, and Bosch are often the original manufacturers for Audi. Buying a part from one of these brands often gets you the exact same quality as the dealer part, just without the Audi logo and associated markup.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 06E905115E 06E905115F 06C905115M
This vehicle uses one coil per cylinder in a coil-on-plug configuration. The 2008-2012 Audi A6 Quattro is equipped with a V6 engine, requiring a total of six (6) ignition coils.
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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 A6 Quattro:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi A6 Quattro Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil
- Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil
- Check for Oil Leaks
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Economy Aftermarket
- Pro Tip: Replace Coils and Plugs Together
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Cost of Replacing Ignition Coils on a 2008-2012 Audi A6 Quattro
- Frequently Asked Questions
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