AUDI S6 (2006)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 63 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,757
£230/month
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Good
Road Tax
£760
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 35-50
5204cc Petrol
Solid Option
87% pass rate, £2757/year to run. 5 points above average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 5204cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 20 years old, 87% of AUDI S6s from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 63 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 126,176 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
126,176
Average miles
148,000
Expected for age
The average 2006 AUDI S6 has 126,176 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 84%. The 2006 sits between the two at 87%.
AUDI S6 by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2006 AUDI S6
The 2006 AUDI S6 is a premium performance with a 5204cc petrol engine. 63 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 12% of all 2006 cars for reliability.
With an average of 126,176 miles at 20 years old, AUDI S6 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2006 AUDI S6 Fuel Costs
The 5204cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2006 AUDI S6?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,757 (£230/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £760 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 87% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
AUDI S6 Reliability Trend
The AUDI S6 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 AUDI S6
At 20 years old, the AUDI S6 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 96%. Note: with only 63 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2006 AUDI S6's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 20 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Oil Consumption
Medium riskLarger petrol engines can develop higher oil consumption as they age. Check the oil level and look for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 126k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2006 AUDI S6 stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AUDI S6(2006) | 87% | £1592 | £760 | Grp 35-50 | £2757 |
| BMW X5(2005) | 77% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2397-£360 |
| MERCEDES CLK(2004) | 76% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2397-£360 |
| MERCEDES SL(2004) | 88% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2247-£510 |
| MERCEDES ML(2006) | 80% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2247-£510 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Audi Models
Explore other Audi cars or similar models in the same category.
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BMW X5
2005 · 4799cc Petrol
MERCEDES CLK
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MERCEDES SL
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