An Owner's Guide to the 2013-2019 Audi S6 Ignition Coil

Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil in Your S6

Ignition coil failure is a common issue on many modern engines, including the 4.0T V8. The high heat and electrical demands can cause them to wear out over time. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, a bad ignition coil is a likely culprit.

• Check Engine Light: A solid or, more seriously, a flashing Check Engine Light is the most obvious sign. A flashing light indicates a severe misfire that can damage your catalytic converters, so you should reduce speed and have the vehicle checked immediately.
• Engine Misfires: You may feel the engine shaking or stumbling, especially at idle or under acceleration. 🎬 Watch: Diagnosing real-world misfire symptoms on an S6 It can feel like a shudder or a series of jerks from the engine bay.
• Reduced Power and Hesitation: Your S6 may feel sluggish and slow to respond when you press the gas pedal.
• Rough Idle: The engine may vibrate or run unevenly when the car is stopped.
• Worse Fuel Economy: When a cylinder isn't firing correctly, the engine becomes less efficient, and you'll notice you're visiting the gas station more often.

Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil

When replacing ignition coils, you have several options. While OEM parts are available from the dealer, the aftermarket offers a wide range of quality and price points. It is highly recommended to replace all eight coils at the same time. If one has failed due to age and heat cycles, the others are likely not far behind.

Tier 1: OEM and OE-Equivalent Brands

These brands are known to be original equipment (OE) suppliers for Audi and other German manufacturers. They offer the same quality and performance as the part you'd get from a dealership, but often at a better price. For a stock or lightly modified S6, these are excellent choices.

• NGK: A confirmed OEM supplier for the Audi 4.0T engine. Choosing NGK is essentially buying the original factory part.
• Bosch: A top-tier German parts manufacturer and a common OE supplier for Audi. While a TSB noted some early Bosch coils could fail prematurely, their replacement parts are a reliable choice.
• Delphi: A major OE supplier with a strong reputation for quality ignition components.

Tier 2: Performance Brands

For owners with tuned engines or those seeking a potential performance edge, these brands offer "high-output" coils. They often claim a modest increase in spark energy (6-10%) which can help ensure a complete burn, especially in high-boost applications. They are a direct plug-and-play replacement.

• APR
• Spectra
• Standard Ignition

Tier 3: Standard Aftermarket Brands

These companies are well-established in the aftermarket and produce reliable replacement parts that meet or exceed original specifications. They are a solid choice for daily driving and offer good value.

• Walker Products

Tier 4: Value Brands

These brands focus on providing the most affordable options. They can be a good choice for a budget-conscious repair, but may not have the same longevity or robust construction as higher-tier brands.

• DriveWire
• Global Parts

Estimated Replacement Costs

The cost to replace ignition coils on a 2013-2019 Audi S6 can vary based on who does the work and the parts you choose. The driver's side of the engine is more difficult to access, which increases labor time.

Frequently Asked Questions