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tilda_himmel2

RS6 Idle Control Valve Failure Causing Engine Stalls

Looking for advice on my 2009 Audi RS6 with 44657km. The engine keeps stalling at idle and check engine light is on. My mechanic checked the error codes and mentioned issues with the idle control, but I am not fully convinced. Does anyone have experience with IAC valve problems on this model? I heard replacing the air valve can be quite expensive and want to make sure it really needs to be done. Any tips on what else to check or how to verify if the idle speed issues are definitely caused by a bad IAC valve?

4 comment(s)

friedrichhofmann10

Recently dealt with similar idle speed issues on my 2012 Audi S6. The stalling engine symptoms matched exactly, rough idle, unexpected stalling, and illuminated check engine light. The IAC valve was heavily contaminated with carbon deposits, causing erratic air intake control. Initial testing showed the idle speed fluctuating between 500-1500 RPM, indicating the air valve was not maintaining proper flow. This required a complete IAC valve cleaning and recalibration. In severe cases like mine, the entire unit needed replacement since the carbon buildup had damaged internal components. The stalling engine issue was indeed serious as it could lead to: Complete engine shutdown in traffic, Increased fuel consumption, Potential damage to other engine components, Failed emissions tests Before replacing the IAC valve, have your mechanic: 1. Check for vacuum leaks 2. Clean the throttle body 3. Test idle control sensor signals 4. Verify proper air intake system connections The symptoms point strongly toward IAC valve issues, especially given the age and mileage of your RS6. These problems are common on this engine family when the air intake system maintenance is delayed.

tilda_himmel2 (Author)

Thanks for sharing those details about your S6 idle control problems. Did the fix completely solve your stalling engine issues? Just dealing with a similar situation on my RS6 where the throttle body and air valve needed attention. Mine was also showing those exact symptoms with the rough idle speed. Considering getting it fixed but want to know the cost implications first. Do you remember roughly how much you paid for the IAC valve work? Also curious if any other related issues came up since the repair?

friedrichhofmann10

After getting my S6 serviced last month, I can confirm the stalling engine problems are completely resolved. The mechanic found heavy contamination in the intake system, and the IAC valve was indeed the main culprit causing the irregular idle speed. The total repair cost was 425 Euro, which included a thorough cleaning of the intake system and fixing the bad IAC valve. Since the fix, the car maintains a steady idle and runs smoothly, no more unexpected stalling or rough running issues. The air valve repair was absolutely worth the investment, as the car now: Maintains consistent idle speed, Starts perfectly every time, Shows no check engine light, Has improved fuel efficiency No other issues have emerged since the repair. The key was addressing the problem before it could cause additional damage to other engine components. If your RS6 shows similar symptoms, I would recommend getting the IAC valve checked and cleaned sooner rather than later.

tilda_himmel2 (Author)

After reading everyone's input, I wanted to share how my RS6 situation turned out. Finally took it to my mechanic last week for a proper diagnosis of the stalling engine problem. They confirmed it was indeed the idle control system causing issues. The throttle body was completely gunked up and the IAC valve needed replacement. Total bill came to 475 Euro, slightly more than expected but worth every cent. The repair took about 4 hours and included: New IAC valve installation, Full throttle body cleaning, Idle speed calibration, System diagnostic check Car runs perfectly now. The engine idle is smooth and consistent, no more unusual stalling or rough running. Fuel economy has actually improved too. Really glad I got it sorted before any serious problems developed. Thanks for all the advice, your similar experiences helped convince me to get it properly checked instead of trying cheaper temporary fixes.

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