Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles

Replacing the Timing Belt

Model: Audi A6 C6, MK 3 - Years: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Part: Timing belt

See other generations:
Video tutorial

Replacing the timing belt is not a typical DIY maintenance task because it requires special tools and any mistake during installation could severely damage the engine. That said, in the case of this vehicle, like many from the German manufacturer Volkswagen-Audi, the engine is installed transversely, meaning the timing belt is located at the front rather than the side.

Therefore, to access the timing belt, first remove the bumper, headlights, and detach the grille with the radiator assembly; at this point, remove the protective covers, disconnect the auxiliary belt, take off the crankshaft pulley, and remove the last cover.

Then align the timing marks and hold them in position with the appropriate tools: this step is absolutely critical, and no mistakes must be made.

Next, loosen the timing belt tensioner and remove the belt, replace the water pump, idler pulleys, and tensioner, then install the new belt (usually, the timing belt kit already includes these parts) and tension it, adjusting the tensioner so that the arrow aligns with the reference mark.

After installing the timing belt, install the crankshaft pulley, the new auxiliary belt, reassemble everything, and fill the cooling system with the appropriate antifreeze before starting the engine.


Updated on 15 February 2026 by ScegliAuto


Related tutorials

Audi A6 (1997-2004 / MK 2, C5) .. provides important instructions for removing and replacing the timing belt on the Audi A6 1.8 Turbo. For this engine type, the timing belt should be replaced.. …
Audi A6 (2011-2018 / C7, MK 4) The following steps will show us how to disassemble and replace the timing belt of the Audi A6 2.0 TDI. First, lift the car and start by disassemblin…
Audi A6 (2011-2018 / C7, MK 4) In this video tutorial, you will see the main instructions to help you replace the timing belt on an Audi A6 2.0 TDI. First, open the hood of the veh…

Other guides you may be interested in

How to Open the Fuel Filler Flap in the Hyundai i30?

In this tutorial, you will learn how to open the fuel filler flap in the Hyundai i30, a very simple operation that follows the typical procedure of most vehicles. First, unlock the locks using the designated button on the remote, then open the driver's door, locate the release lever on the left side of the seat, and operate it. Next, move to the fuel filler flap, open it completely, unscrew the cap, and refuel as needed. To close the flap, simply press it gently.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos