Audi has stopped production of its current A6 C7 model following accusations pointing to the presence of software written to manipulate emissions controls.
According to Spiegel, both the A6 as well as the A7 Sportback TDI could be fitted with a previously unknown defeat device. If that proves to be true, more than 30,000 vehicles could face scrutiny in Germany alone, states the publication. The real number of suspected vehicles is currently 60,000, reports The Local.
“The KBA has requested a hearing on suspicion the Audi V6 TDI A6/A7 models have been fitted with an illegal defeat device,” stated a spokesman for Germany’s Transport Ministry.
What is this unknown defeat device?
Right now, word has it that the two models could have software that deliberately slows down the use of AdBlue cleaning fluid in the final 2,400 km (1,491 km) of its life span, thus keeping drivers from having to refill it in-between regular servicing. With reduced AdBlue functionality, the engine’s harmful nitrogen oxides are more difficult to neutralize.
“An official recall for at least the affected Audi cars registered on German roads is highly likely,” wrote Spiegel.
Affected diesel engines are the V6 TDI Gen2 Evo, specifically the 200 kW (272 PS / 268 HP) versions.
While this issue is quite different from the scandal that plagued Volkswagen back in 2015, it’s also not the first time the German car industry has been accused of AdBlue tampering – both Mercedes as well as VW faced similar accusations.
An Audi spokesman had this to say: “We discovered an irregularity just over a week ago and communicated it to the KBA last Friday. We are working on a software update and are in close contact with the KBA.”
Correction: We’re sorry to say that some of the information regarding this report has been lost in translation across the web today. Suspected of AdBlue tampering are the current/previous-generation A6 (C7) model, as well as the first-generation A7 Sportback. The all-new Audi A6/A7 aren’t in any way involved. Thanks to Mark for pointing it out!
