is it true that Audi A6 C6 dont need a timing belt change?

[expandable]

I work as a valet and asked one guy with A6 if he changed his since he had over 100k miles, and he said he didnt have to...so curiousity :)

[Thizz_S4]

I must say that statement is defiantly false. . .

[expandable]

idk i figured its probably a chain instead of a belt...sooo im asking :)

[Vinchenzo51]

2006 A6 Maintenance Schedule (https://wiki.bentleypublishers.com/display/tech/Audi+-+2006+Maintenance+Schedules)

75k on the dot

[JPJ2007]

It's a chain correct?

hmm. I bought mine with 90k and im at 123k now...

That link shows:

Timing belt: * 75K only: 1.8T, 3.0L, A8 4.2L

So my 3.2..... Doesnt show.

[ChrisFurlong]

It's a chain correct?

hmm. I bought mine with 90k and im at 123k now...

That link shows:

Timing belt: * 75K only: 1.8T, 3.0L, A8 4.2L

So my 3.2..... Doesnt show.

Yes, the 3.2 is chain driven. I contacted my local Audi dealer before I bought my 3.2 and they told me that, and that its maintenance free (i.e. doesn't need changing).

There has been reports of the chain stretching or breaking, might be something worth Googling.

[JPJ2007]

Thats what I thought with the 3.2 bein chain, it's not something you change.

However, I'd rather change it at say 150k miles just to play it safe. idk we'll see.

[Vinchenzo51]

yes the chains are "maintenance free" just like the transmission is "maintenance free" so it doesn't have a drain plug or filler on the pan, but from what i've read online its a good idea to change your tranny fluid around the ~100-150k mark give or take on the C5's anyway.

so your right, its probably a good idea to replace the timing chain just to be on the safeside once you get upwards of 150+k depending on how much $$$ it will be

[JPJ2007]

Yeah I'll have to see. I'm at 123k on my 06 and I really plan on keeping it to 200k hahaha. I hope.

[ThirdStrike]

With a chain timed engine the guides are what goes out. You will hear it when the begin to wear. The chain will flap around and make knocking noises.

[DrCold]

I thought that the non FSI engines still used a belt. If I remember correctly the 4.2 FSI wasn't an option until '07. Could be wrong here, just what I heard. :)

[Kevin1]

I thought that the non FSI engines still used a belt. If I remember correctly the 4.2 FSI wasn't an option until '07. Could be wrong here, just what I heard. :)

The non-FSI 4.2, which is in the 05 and the 06, has a timing chain.

[justinperkins]

jesus christ guys, you don't replace a friggin' timing CHAIN just because you feel like it

belt = maintenance item

chain = for life, for real

[lIRATIl]

jesus christ guys, you don't replace a friggin' timing CHAIN just because you feel like it

belt = maintenance item

chain = for life, for real
Chains stretch over time. It is recommended you change them at some point over 125k on most cars. Even bike chains stretch.
kthxbai

[justinperkins]

Chains stretch over time. It is recommended you change them at some point over 125k on most cars. Even bike chains stretch.
kthxbai

no way jose, you don't change a friggin CHAIN at 125k

bike chains don't have self adjusting tensioners

[lIRATIl]

That doesn't mean they don't stretch or wear over time. Just because they're tensioned doesn't mean they aren't stretched or worn.

[BBC]

That doesn't mean they don't stretch or wear over time. Just because they're tensioned doesn't mean they aren't stretched or worn.

Audi says these guys are lifetime, with no service interval, but if you insist, I'm sure you can find a shop who will do it for you. Oh Yah, lifetime doesn't mean FOREVER, just when it fails your motor does too, probably the carbon takes it out long before that though.

[JimmyBones]

The non-FSI 4.2, which is in the 05 and the 06, has a timing chain.

What he said and it is the just like the allroad and S4 non-FSI 4.2s. Audi started using timing chains on the V8s when they realized that the timing belt engine was too long to fit in the A4 body. Now the early A8 still had a ton of room so the early A8 4.2s (2004-2006) were the timing belt engine until Audi switched over to the FSI engine and that was an across the model range change except for the S4.

For those of you worried about the timing chains: the chains, guides, and tensioners start making a rattling noise when they are worn and there is play. If you search for S4 start up rattle a bunch of sites and forum threads will come up with information. On a side note, a tech across the shop from me at work is on his second C6 A6 3.2 V6 that needs cylinder heads after the owner ran over something in the road like latter and the timing chains or guides broke. The chains are on the back of the engine by the transmission too so the engine and trans has to come out to replace those parts. Don't shoot the messenger.

[diplomat128]

The non-FSI 4.2, which is in the 05 and the 06, has a timing chain.


What he said and it is the just like the allroad and S4 non-FSI 4.2s. Audi started using timing chains on the V8s when they realized that the timing belt engine was too long to fit in the A4 body. Now the early A8 still had a ton of room so the early A8 4.2s (2004-2006) were the timing belt engine until Audi switched over to the FSI engine and that was an across the model range change except for the S4.

For those of you worried about the timing chains: the chains, guides, and tensioners start making a rattling noise when they are worn and there is play. If you search for S4 start up rattle a bunch of sites and forum threads will come up with information. On a side note, a tech across the shop from me at work is on his second C6 A6 3.2 V6 that needs cylinder heads after the owner ran over something in the road like latter and the timing chains or guides broke. The chains are on the back of the engine by the transmission too so the engine and trans has to come out to replace those parts. Don't shoot the messenger.

So let me get this straight once and for all.

05-06 A6 4.2 = Timing CHAIN
07 + A6 4.2 FSI = Timing BELT

correct?

and BTW:

I know we don't replace the chains on timing chain engines but what about the water pump/thermostat. Since they are items we usually replace at 70k with the timing belt should we still replace them at 70k on a timing chain engine? And since the water pump is usually right there with the timing belt/chain shouldn't we just change the chain while we're at it?

thanks guys

[Kevin1]

So let me get this straight once and for all.

05-06 A6 4.2 = Timing CHAIN
07 + A6 4.2 FSI = Timing BELT

correct?



You are correct sir.

[diplomat128]

You are correct sir.


haha NICE! I was looking for an 06 V8. One more reason to get one...

[BeEmAcK617]

With a chain timed engine the guides are what goes out. You will hear it when the begin to wear. The chain will flap around and make knocking noises.

this is true just like in the VW mk3/mk4 VR6 engines.

[skpjah]

2006 A6 Maintenance Schedule (https://wiki.bentleypublishers.com/display/tech/Audi+-+2006+Maintenance+Schedules)

75k on the dot

Not sure this applies to the 3.2 litre?

[ManyAudis]

The 2006 3.2 definitely has a timing chain. Actually there are 4 of them in the engine. One runs the oil pump, one runs an intermediate sprocket and the balance shaft and the other two driven by the intermediate shaft run the cams. They are on the rear of the engine. If you want to change them for maintenance go right ahead but it will cost you big time. The engine has to come out and then you have to replace all 4 chains and tensioners. And while your at it you should probably replace the sprockets, seals, gaskets etc. $$$$$$'s

[whehd79]

Mine, 2005 A6 C6 3.2, has 110K now. I went to a local shop to replace the timing chain when it was 100K. Just for the future safe.
But they didn't recommend doing that since the chain still worked fine and would do what it has to do till the engine stops.
I would save the money for future maintenance of the other items upcomming soon if your car is over 100K such as ABS module as I have an issue with now$$$$$.

[KAL]

Hey guys so I'm trying to find an ooold post I read before I purchased my car last May. It refers to the way the 4.2 is positioned in the C6 vs the B6 S4. My chain has started to rattle around which tells me its gonna be time to replace those tensioners. In the S4 that would mean an engine pull. Would that also be the case with the C6 or is the motor positioned in a way were the chain is facing the front of the engine/ or is there more wiggle room to work on the motor while still on the car because its a bigger platform??? (My gutt is telling me I might have been reading that about the 4.2 in the A8 which is belt driven).

[SinCityA6]

Hey guys so I'm trying to find an ooold post I read before I purchased my car last May. It refers to the way the 4.2 is positioned in the C6 vs the B6 S4. My chain has started to rattle around which tells me its gonna be time to replace those tensioners. In the S4 that would mean an engine pull. Would that also be the case with the C6 or is the motor positioned in a way were the chain is facing the front of the engine/ or is there more wiggle room to work on the motor while still on the car because its a bigger platform??? (My gutt is telling me I might have been reading that about the 4.2 in the A8 which is belt driven).

Your timing chains live on the rear of the motor between the engine and the trans. Replacing requires dropping the motor and trans then splitting them. I had the tensioners and guides replaced in my 05 4.2 under warrantee. The service took them 21 days (mostly waiting for parts from the motherland) and cost Audi about $7500.

[KAL]

Ouch.. that is not the answer I was hoping for. I should start shopping around for a good quote. I've read in the B6/7 S4 forums that Mobil 1 0w-40 helps slow the wear as it keeps parts lubricated longer after the engine is turned off.

[xuandatou]

Yeah I'll have to see. I'm at 123k on my 06 and I really plan on keeping it to 200k hahaha. I hope.

Same here: 2007 A6 with 147k miles...

[The_Transporter]

Ouch.. that is not the answer I was hoping for. I should start shopping around for a good quote. I've read in the B6/7 S4 forums that Mobil 1 0w-40 helps slow the wear as it keeps parts lubricated longer after the engine is turned off.

I hate to be a downer, but...
It sounds like you should sell the A6 before you end up basically buying a new car for the price it will cost to fix that motor.

[CMagnus]

I have an '05 A6; it is chain not belt. I have only had one thing changed in it and that was the fuel pump due to the recall other than the regular and required maintenance. It still drives like new; inbetween, it is a 3.2l with 155k miles. but then again, I bought it brand new.

[KAL]

I hate to be a downer, but...
It sounds like you should sell the A6 before you end up basically buying a new car for the price it will cost to fix that motor.

Since that post I did some more research and switched to 0w40 which substantially lowered the rattling. So long as I keep up my oil changes and maintenance I should be fine. No CELs and everything is smooth as silk so I'm optimistic, no to mention its so hard contemplating selling this thing I've grown to love it.

My long term plan would be to jump into an RS4 but I think I might get into a c6.5 before that as thats still aways out budget wise and the .5s are slowly entering my budget range. And with a stage 2+ its putting down nearly similar numbers I reckon.

[royc]

What he said and it is the just like the allroad and S4 non-FSI 4.2s. Audi started using timing chains on the V8s when they realized that the timing belt engine was too long to fit in the A4 body. Now the early A8 still had a ton of room so the early A8 4.2s (2004-2006) were the timing belt engine until Audi switched over to the FSI engine and that was an across the model range change except for the S4.

For those of you worried about the timing chains: the chains, guides, and tensioners start making a rattling noise when they are worn and there is play. If you search for S4 start up rattle a bunch of sites and forum threads will come up with information. On a side note, a tech across the shop from me at work is on his second C6 A6 3.2 V6 that needs cylinder heads after the owner ran over something in the road like latter and the timing chains or guides broke. The chains are on the back of the engine by the transmission too so the engine and trans has to come out to replace those parts. Don't shoot the messenger.



That is TRUE. Engine out job for chaines change. Change your oil regularly guys, keep away from long life services - 10k max between oil/filter changes.
Auto trans fluid - Tiptronic, change at 70k - Multitronic change at 38k.



http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii626/royclark/32engine.jpg

[vajking]

jesus christ guys, you don't replace a friggin' timing CHAIN just because you feel like it

belt = maintenance item

chain = for life, for real

In a perfect world yes, In Audi World you replace the timing chain every year on the 3.2 I dont know how many times I've seen 3.2 FSI owners that had there chains broken, streched etc etc

[royc]

so your right, its probably a good idea to replace the timing chain just to be on the safeside once you get upwards of 150+k depending on how much $$$ it will be


http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?156240-Small-issues-with-3-0-tdi-Rattle-Please-help!


TDI but gives some idea of chains.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbjzUMCBf2Q

[The_Transporter]

In a perfect world yes, In Audi World you replace the timing chain every year on the 3.2 I dont know how many times I've seen 3.2 FSI owners that had there chains broken, streched etc etc

WHAT? I have to say, this is the FIRST time I've heard anything like this. Especially considering I have several colleagues with 3.2L A5's, A6's and A4's.... NEVER heard of any of them changing chains in all their years of ownership. In fact, I'll shoot them a text and confirm this story.

[snokarver]

For the B6/B7 S4 and the C5 allroad 4.2's, Audi used to say the chains were lifetime. I've heard they've since revised that to needing to be replaced every 100k. There have been quite a few failures of the chain drive in those 4.2's. There isn't always - and from what I've heard, quite rarely - a rattle before hand. There's been at least a few catastrophic failures of allroad 4.2's without any warning.

If you're actually going to go 10k between changes, I would do a blackstone report to see just how well the oil does over that length of time.

[royc]

If you're actually going to go 10k between changes, I would do a blackstone report to see just how well the oil does over that length of time.

I have just changed my oil & filter at just under 2k miles. (12 months)

[vajking]

WHAT? I have to say, this is the FIRST time I've heard anything like this. Especially considering I have several colleagues with 3.2L A5's, A6's and A4's.... NEVER heard of any of them changing chains in all their years of ownership. In fact, I'll shoot them a text and confirm this story.

hehe I dont know if the engines in US are built in some other way than the 3.2 in Europe, but here we have even had the engine problem thing on the news.

[Jimingle10]

Doing my chains nowhttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/28/vyrytade.jpg

[trifstar]

I must say that statement is defiantly false. . .

You should really check your facts before giving people inaccurate information and possibly making them spend enormous sums which are unnecessary (though any honest Audi mechanic would quickly set him straight). Keep in mind Audi produce 2 3.0 litre engines, one being a petrol unit while the other is a common rail single turbo with twin intercoolers. I owned this particular model until only 3 months ago. The 2007 model Audi A6 3.0 litre V6 tdi and I can assure you this engine does NOT have a timing belt, it runs a series of timing chains. A quick Google search to find out the cost of having to replace a chain in the unlikely event that you should ever need to replace it in your country (I'm aware of the cost in Australia only because I knew someone who had clocked up 350,000 kms and developed a timing chain rattle) is that the labour cost alone is over $4000. It is a 31 hour job (according to the Audi time guide for every repair). The timing chain is regarded as a life time unit and, unlike a belt, requires removal of the engine to do the job. It is technically possible to do with the engine in place but as it would actually take longer to do the job because of difficulty accessing components, it would only cost more this way so obviously not worth it.

If there was a problem with the timing chain you would hear a very distinct rattling from the front of the engine but it is a job very rarely performed. As a diesel it is a very low revving engine. Timing chains are designed to absorb tremendous loads (that's why all motorcycles use them as many motorcycles these days rev to close to 20,000 rpm - mine redlines at 17,000) so an engine revving to max 5,000 is a walk in the park.

In short you should call a reputable Audi workshop if you are now uncertain and they will assure you that it runs chains. There are cutaway photos online showing the internals of this engine and the chains can be clearly seen. Also if you look through the log book of this vehicle you will find nowhere where there is a service requiring a timing chain replacement.

As long as the car has been serviced correctly (just check that the services have been done by Audi specialists when looking through the log book) you should feel confident buying one of these. They are quiet, smooth, produce prodigious torque and more horsepower than you'd imagine from an oil burner. They are surprisingly good re fuel consumption considering the size of the car and engine, and are well engineered and inexpensive comparatively to maintain.

Good Luck and enjoy the car - if you haven't already bought something else after finding out what a timing chain replacement would cost!
(which you'd have a less than 1% chance of ever needing to do)

[c@@kieMonsta]

You should really check your facts before giving people inaccurate information and possibly making them spend enormous sums which are unnecessary (though any honest Audi mechanic would quickly set him straight). Keep in mind Audi produce 2 3.0 litre engines, one being a petrol unit while the other is a common rail single turbo with twin intercoolers. I owned this particular model until only 3 months ago. The 2007 model Audi A6 3.0 litre V6 tdi and I can assure you this engine does NOT have a timing belt, it runs a series of timing chains. A quick Google search to find out the cost of having to replace a chain in the unlikely event that you should ever need to replace it in your country (I'm aware of the cost in Australia only because I knew someone who had clocked up 350,000 kms and developed a timing chain rattle) is that the labour cost alone is over $4000. It is a 31 hour job (according to the Audi time guide for every repair). The timing chain is regarded as a life time unit and, unlike a belt, requires removal of the engine to do the job. It is technically possible to do with the engine in place but as it would actually take longer to do the job because of difficulty accessing components, it would only cost more this way so obviously not worth it.

If there was a problem with the timing chain you would hear a very distinct rattling from the front of the engine but it is a job very rarely performed. As a diesel it is a very low revving engine. Timing chains are designed to absorb tremendous loads (that's why all motorcycles use them as many motorcycles these days rev to close to 20,000 rpm - mine redlines at 17,000) so an engine revving to max 5,000 is a walk in the park.

In short you should call a reputable Audi workshop if you are now uncertain and they will assure you that it runs chains. There are cutaway photos online showing the internals of this engine and the chains can be clearly seen. Also if you look through the log book of this vehicle you will find nowhere where there is a service requiring a timing chain replacement.

As long as the car has been serviced correctly (just check that the services have been done by Audi specialists when looking through the log book) you should feel confident buying one of these. They are quiet, smooth, produce prodigious torque and more horsepower than you'd imagine from an oil burner. They are surprisingly good re fuel consumption considering the size of the car and engine, and are well engineered and inexpensive comparatively to maintain.

Good Luck and enjoy the car - if you haven't already bought something else after finding out what a timing chain replacement would cost!
(which you'd have a less than 1% chance of ever needing to do)

Holy thread revival batman! You do realize you replied to a post that's over 5 years old right?

[Kevin1]

Holy smoke!

[SinCityA6]

Internet must be slow in the Outback!

[luvdubs]

Pulling the motor and changing the chains is an expensive proposition. I changed the tensioners myself, with guidance from threads on here and a couple of video references. It's very do-able if you have moderate experience and the right tools (which aren't expensive). Lots of different opinions on here, and it's hard to say if any are 100% correct, but none are 100% wrong. My common sense told me that my '05 3.2 with 153,000 was well worth $400 worth of guides, but I'm not sure if it's worth $5,000 to have someone pull the motor and replace the chains and everything that goes with that service. I'll take my chances and try to prevent death by carbon or catastrophic transmission failure.