Audi S6 Engine Oil Pressure Switch Guide for the 4.0T V8 (2013-2018)
An oil pressure warning on your S6 is more than just a light—it could be a critical alert for your twin-turbo engine.
- An oil pressure warning could be linked to the critical Audi Recall 21H7 for a clogged turbo oil strainer; investigate this immediately.
- The switch is located deep in the engine valley, making replacement extremely labor-intensive and expensive.
- Due to the high labor cost, always use a high-quality OEM or premium aftermarket part to avoid repeat repairs.
- If having the turbo oil strainer or PCV valve serviced, replace the oil pressure switch at the same time to save on labor.
Is Your Oil Pressure Light On? What It Means for Your S6
Seeing the red oil pressure warning light on your dashboard is a serious event. Your first step should always be to safely pull over, turn off the engine, and check your oil level. If the oil level is normal, the problem could be a faulty oil pressure switch, or it could be a symptom of a much more critical issue within the 4.0T engine.
Warning: The Turbo Oil Strainer Recall (Audi 21H7)
For 2013-2017 Audi S6 models, an oil pressure warning can be a symptom of a clogged turbocharger oil strainer. This is a well-known issue that led to Audi issuing a safety recall (NHTSA Campaign: 22V178000 / Audi Code: 21H7). 🎬 Watch: How to replace the turbo oil screen and lines. A small mesh screen designed to protect the turbos can get blocked, starving them of oil and leading to catastrophic failure. If you see an oil pressure light, you must rule this out. Contact an Audi dealer with your VIN to see if the recall has been performed on your vehicle.
Symptoms of a Failing Oil Pressure Switch
A bad oil pressure switch can cause several confusing symptoms:
- Oil Pressure Light On or Flickering: The most common sign is the dashboard warning light coming on, even when the oil level is correct. 🎬 See this video to identify critical engine noises and symptoms.
- Check Engine Light with Code P0524: The switch can fail in a way that logs a P0524 trouble code, which means "Engine Oil Pressure Too Low."
- Oil Leaks: The switch itself can develop a leak, causing oil to seep from the sensor body or its electrical connector.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Oil Pressure Switch
Because this switch is so difficult to access, choosing a quality part is essential to avoid doing the job twice. The small price difference between a budget part and a quality part is insignificant compared to the high labor cost.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality:
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This is the same part your vehicle was built with, offering guaranteed fit and reliability. For a critical, hard-to-reach part, this is the safest choice.
- Premium Aftermarket (Vemo, Facet): Brands like Vemo specialize in parts for German vehicles and are often considered OE-equivalent. Facet also markets itself as a European manufacturer of quality components. These are reliable alternatives to OEM.
- Standard Aftermarket (Walker Products, etc.): These brands offer a cost-effective solution and claim to meet OE specifications. While functional, for a labor-intensive job on a high-performance engine, investing in a premium brand is strongly recommended for long-term peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Replace It During Other Service
The oil pressure switch on the 4.0T engine is located deep in the engine valley, underneath the turbochargers. Accessing it is an extremely labor-intensive job. The official Audi procedure for the turbo oil strainer recall may require the removal of the oil pressure switch. If your S6 is undergoing the recall service or any repair involving the PCV / oil separator, it is the perfect 🎬 Watch: A step-by-step guide to accessing the engine valley. and most cost-effective time to replace the oil pressure switch preventatively.
Cost to Replace an Audi S6 Oil Pressure Switch
The cost is dominated by labor due to the part's location. If you are only replacing the switch, expect a very high labor bill. If you are replacing it during the turbo oil strainer recall, you should only pay for the part itself.
| Part Type | Estimated Part Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $70 - $120 |
| New Aftermarket | $13 - $58 |
| Shop Labor | $1200 - $2000+ (if performed as a standalone job) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the oil pressure switch on a 2013-2018 Audi S6?
The oil pressure switch (or control valve) is not easily accessible. It is located deep within the 'V' of the 4.0T engine, under the intake manifold and turbocharger assembly. This location makes replacement a job for an experienced technician.
Can I drive my S6 with the oil pressure light on?
No. An oil pressure warning indicates a critical lack of lubrication. Driving the vehicle, even for a short distance, can lead to catastrophic engine damage, especially to the turbochargers. You should stop the engine immediately and have the vehicle towed.
What is the P0524 trouble code?
P0524 is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Engine Oil Pressure Too Low." It means the engine's computer has received a signal from the oil pressure sensor that the pressure has dropped to a critically low level. This could be caused by low oil, a failing oil pump, a clogged oil passage, or a faulty sensor.
Is an aftermarket oil pressure switch safe for my S6?
A high-quality aftermarket switch from a reputable brand like Vemo or Facet is a safe and reliable option. However, given the extremely high labor cost to access the part, using a low-cost, unproven brand is a significant risk. A premature failure would require paying for the labor all over again.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 079115243C
The Audi S6 4.0T engine uses one or more oil pressure switches/sensors to monitor the lubrication system. The primary switch is located in the engine valley. It functions as a critical input for the Engine Control Module (ECM) to protect the engine and turbochargers from oil starvation.
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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:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Oil Pressure Light On? What It Means for Your S6
- Warning: The Turbo Oil Strainer Recall (Audi 21H7)
- Symptoms of a Failing Oil Pressure Switch
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Oil Pressure Switch
- Pro Tip: Replace It During Other Service
- Cost to Replace an Audi S6 Oil Pressure Switch
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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