2021 Audi A6 Engine Stalling Update 13H3
Audi has released Update 13H3, an ECM software update, for certain 2021 Audi A6 vehicles to address engine stalling or rough running at idle due to camshaft adjuster control issues. Owners will not be directly notified.
Symptoms
Owners of affected 2021 Audi A6 vehicles may notice their engine not running smoothly, particularly under specific operating conditions. In rare instances, the engine might even stop running entirely under these conditions. This Audi A6 engine stalling issue is primarily observed when the vehicle is idling, such as when it is stationary or just before coming to a complete stop. While the engine can typically be restarted, the intermittent nature of the problem can be concerning.
Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions
Audi's internal research indicates that the issue with the camshaft adjuster's control only manifests when the engine is idling. This means the problem is most likely to occur when your 2021 Audi A6 is stopped in traffic, waiting at a light, or slowing down to park. If you experience your Audi A6 engine stalling or running roughly during these specific times, it may be related to this known condition.
Repair Procedure Summary
The solution for the Audi A6 engine stalling and rough running issue involves an update to the Engine Control Module (ECM) software. This software update, identified as Update 13H3 and also referred to as FED_EMS, is designed to optimize the control of the camshaft adjuster, ensuring the engine runs smoothly across all operating conditions, including idle. The update will be performed by an authorized Audi dealer.
Important Warnings / What Owners Should Know
Audi has issued specific guidance regarding this update:
- No Consumer Notification: Consistent with Audi's corporate policy for
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Update 13H3 for the Audi A6?
- Update 13H3 is an Engine Control Module (ECM) software update released by Audi to address issues with the camshaft adjuster control in certain 2021 Audi A6 vehicles, which can lead to the Audi A6 engine stalling or running roughly at idle.
- Will Audi notify me about the 13H3 update?
- No, Audi is not directly notifying consumers about this Update 13H3. This differs from recalls or service actions, for which written notifications are typically sent. Owners should proactively inquire with their Audi dealer.
- What should I do if my Audi A6 engine is stalling at idle?
- If your 2021 Audi A6 engine is stalling or running roughly at idle, you should contact your authorized Audi dealer. They can check if your vehicle is covered by Update 13H3 and perform the necessary ECM software update.
- Can I drive a new 2021 Audi A6 that needs Update 13H3?
- No. Audi has instructed dealers that stock vehicles cannot be delivered to consumers until Update 13H3 is completed. Dealers must ensure all affected vehicles receive the update before customer delivery.
What Audi A6 owners report
Counted from the records in our database across 33 model years.
- 1,665
- Owner complaints
- 55
- Recalls
- 5,316
- Service bulletins
- 64
- Crashes reported
- 71
- Fires reported
- 65
- Injuries reported
The 2021 model year
18 complaints, the 24th most of 33 model years on file. Owners reported 0 crashes, 0 fires and 0 injuries for this year, which also has 11 recalls on file.
Equipment and Engine, the system this article covers, accounts for 158 of 1,665 complaints (9%), including 3 for 2021.
Complaints by model year
| 1998 | 130 | |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 217 | |
| 2000 | 148 | |
| 2001 | 113 | |
| 2002 | 88 | |
| 2005 | 91 | |
| 2006 | 67 | |
| 2008 | 71 | |
| 2019 | 114 | |
| 2021 | 18 |
Most-reported systems
- Electrical System — 396
- Air Bags — 316
- Service Brakes — 161
- Fuel System — 150
- Engine — 130
Latest recalls for the 2021 model year
- 25V900000 — Back Over Prevention (Dec 2025)
- 25V201000 — Electrical System (Mar 2025)
- 23V601000 — Service Brakes, Hydraulic (Aug 2023)
Recent owner reports about equipment and engine
The contact owns a 2021 Audi A6. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle overheated. The engine overheating and the low coolant warning light illuminated. In addition, the engine seized.
Read owner complaints →Thermostat housing and oil cooler bracket leaking coolant with only 56k miles on the car
Complaints are owner reports filed with NHTSA. They are unverified, and counts depend on how many vehicles were sold, so they are not a failure rate.
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