Get Driving Guide for Audi RS6 4 Door Fourth Generation (2019-2025)

Driving

Mild hybrid drive: The combustion engine will

start. Depending on the situation, the electric

drive system may be switched on when driving off

or manoeuvring.

Driving

Starting the vehicle

Introduction

Electrical components with a high power con-

sumption are switched off temporarily while you

start the engine. If the engine fails to start im-

mediately, the starter will be switched off auto-

matically after a few seconds. In this case, you

should try to start the engine again after about

30 seconds.

Diesel engine: The engine may take a few sec-

onds longer than usual to start on cold days.

Please keep your foot on the brake pedal until

the engine starts.

Fig. 70 Centre console: Switching on the drive system

The vehicle (ignition) and the drive system can be

switched on separately. Electronic systems such

as the MMI are available when the vehicle is

switched on but the drive system is not. The vehi-

cle can only be driven once the drive system has

been switched on. Depending on the model, the

term “drive system” refers to the combustion en-

gine or the electric drive system.

Switching off the drive system

►

Stop the vehicle.

START ENGINE STOP

►

Press the

button. The

drive system will be switched off.

After the engine is stopped, the radiator fan may

remain on or turn itself back on for up to 10 mi-

nutes, even if the ignition is switched off.

Important: The key must be in the vehicle. When

using the digital key, the activated digital key

card must be in the phone compartment

ðpage 194; the mobile device does not have to

be in the phone compartment.

Applies to vehicles with steering lock: The steer-

ing will be locked if you switch off the engine in

transmission position P and open the driver's

door. The steering lock acts as a theft deterrent.

Switching off the drive system in an

emergency

Any brief noises which may be heard when the ve-

hicle is started and stopped are quite normal and

no cause for concern.

If necessary, the engine can be switched off in an

emergency while the vehicle is still moving. De-

pending on the vehicle’s equipment, it may only

be possible to switch the engine back on again af-

ter the vehicle has come to a standstill.

Switching the drive system on

►

Press and hold the brake pedal.

START ENGINE STOP

►

Press the

button in the

centre console. The drive system will be switch-

ed on.

START ENGINE STOP

►

Press the

button twice in

quick succession or press and hold it.

It may not be possible to start the vehicle at ex-

tremely low outside temperatures.

Switching the vehicle on/off

If you only wish to switch the vehicle on/off and

do not want to start the drive system as well,

proceed as follows:

The full performance is not available until the en-

gine is warm. Certain powertrain components

may need to be warmed up depending on the

type of engine. During this warming up phase,

 is shown.

START ENGINE STOP

►

Press the

button without

pressing the brake pedal.



97

Driving

Situations where the vehicle is switched off

automatically

leave the engine idling for about 2 minutes

before switching it off.

To prevent the vehicle battery from being dis-

charged, the vehicle and, in some cases, the exte-

rior lighting may be switched off automatically.

Driver messages about the vehicle key

The following driver messages may appear, de-

pending on the equipment installed in your vehi-

cle:

Important:

– The start/stop system must have switched off

the engine.



Vehicle start system: fault. Please contact

– You must have left the vehicle more than 30

seconds ago.

workshop soon

A vehicle start system fault has occurred. Drive to

a qualified workshop soon and have the fault rec-

tified.

– The vehicle must be switched on.

The methods used by the vehicle for detecting

whether you have left include the following:



Remote control key: key not recognised. Is

– Driver’s door has been opened.

– Driver’s seat belt has been unbuckled.

– Brake pedal is not pressed.

key still in vehicle?

The vehicle key was removed from the vehicle

while the drive system was active. If the vehicle

key is not in the vehicle you will not be able to

switch on the vehicle or restart the drive system

after it has been switched off. You will also not be

able to lock the vehicle from the outside.

The vehicle will also be switched off after 30 mi-

nutes or when you lock the vehicle from the out-

side.

WARNING



Vehicle key: key not detected. Is there still a

– Never run the engine in confined spaces. The

exhaust gases are toxic – risk of poisoning!

– Never switch off the engine until the vehicle

is stationary. Otherwise you may not have

the full benefit of the brake servo and power

steering. You may need more strength to

steer and brake the vehicle than you normal-

ly would. This would mean a greater risk of

accidents and serious injury, because you

cannot steer and brake in the normal man-

ner.

valid key in the vehicle?

The vehicle key and the digital key were removed

from the vehicle while the drive system was ac-

tive. If the vehicle key and digital key are not in

the vehicle you will not be able to switch on the

vehicle or restart the drive system after it has

been switched off. You will also not be able to

lock the vehicle from the outside while the drive

system is active.

 Remote control key: hold against marked

area and press start/stop button. See owner’s

manual

– Before leaving the vehicle, secure it to pre-

vent it from rolling away ðpage 99.

The vehicle key battery is empty or there is radio

interference. To start the vehicle, you must also

hold the vehicle key against the  symbol

ðpage 97, Fig. 70.

CAUTION

– Avoid high engine speeds, full throttle and

extreme load conditions until the engine

has reached its normal operating tempera-

ture; otherwise this can damage the engine.

– If the engine has been working hard for a

long time, there is a risk of heat building up

in the engine compartment after the engine

has been switched off; this could cause en-

gine damage. For this reason, you should

If the fault persists, drive to a qualified workshop

soon and have it rectified.

 Hold remote control key against marked

area or place digital key in Audi phone box. See

owner’s manual



98

Driving

The vehicle key battery is empty or there is radio

interference. To start the vehicle, you must also

hold the vehicle key against the  symbol

ðpage 97, Fig. 70 or place the digital key in the

phone compartment.

be gone for a short time. Otherwise the ve-

hicle can roll away – risk of accident!

– Never leave your vehicle unattended while

the drive system is active – risk of accident!

– If the parking brake is engaged, it may be re-

leased automatically if the accelerator pedal

is pressed. Take care when pressing the ac-

celerator pedal and always make sure that

position P is selected when you park the ve-

hicle – risk of accident!

If the fault persists, drive to a qualified workshop

soon and have it rectified.

Driving the vehicle

Information on driving away, stopping and

parking

– Always switch off the vehicle and take the

key with you when you leave the vehicle.

This is particularly important if persons or

animals are left in the vehicle. They might

otherwise unintentionally start the vehicle,

release the parking brake or use power-oper-

ated equipment – this could cause accidents.

– Do not leave any persons or animals in the

vehicle when it is locked. Locked doors could

delay assistance in an emergency, potential-

ly putting lives at risk.

Driving away from a standstill

►

Press and hold the brake pedal.

►

Start the vehicle.

►

Select transmission position D or R. The park-

ing brake will be released automatically.

►

Take your foot off the brake pedal. The vehicle

may start to creep forwards.

►

Press the accelerator to increase the speed.

– If you do not drive away immediately after

releasing the brake pedal, the vehicle may

start to roll backwards. You should there-

fore immediately press the brake pedal or

apply the parking brake.

Please note, especially when driving off and park-

ing, that the vehicle “creeps” forwards/back. The

drive system sets the vehicle in motion when you

take your foot off the brake pedal.

Securing the vehicle to prevent it from

rolling away

CAUTION

Before leaving the vehicle, always secure it so

that it cannot roll away.

To avoid rolling back on gradients always hold

the vehicle with the brake pedal if you have to

stop. Do not attempt to hold the vehicle by

keeping your foot on the accelerator. This

could cause the drive system to overheat –

risk of damage!

►

Apply the parking brake.

►

When parking on a slope, turn the steering

wheel so that the vehicle would roll into the

kerb if it did start to move unexpectedly.

If this is not possible (e.g. if the vehicle has no

electrical power), you must take additional steps

to secure the vehicle so that it cannot roll away.

Information on transmission positions and

driving programs

►

Only park the vehicle on a level surface.

►

Block the wheels by placing suitable objects un-

derneath both the front and rear of each wheel.

Keeping the vehicle free to roll

Refer to ðpage 108.

WARNING

– Always apply the parking brake before leav-

Fig. 71 Centre console: Selector lever



ing your vehicle – even if you only intend to

99

Driving

Transmission positions

2 km/h), you can switch back to D without press-

ing the brake.

The transmission positions are shown on the se-

lector lever in the centre console.

For safety reasons, the vehicle can only be locked

with the central locking switch when N is selec-

ted.

– P (Park)

– R (Reverse): Drive backwards

– N (Neutral)

Transmission position P (parking lock)/

parking brake

– D (Drive): Drive forwards

Important: The ignition must be switched on.

Driving programs

In transmission position P, the vehicle is preven-

ted from rolling away by the parking lock. The

parking lock is a mechanical locking mechanism

for the gearbox.

Various driving programs can be selected in

transmission position D. These have an effect on

when the gearbox changes gear and the reaction

to accelerator pedal inputs, for example.

– Stop the vehicle and press the brake pedal.

– Press the  button 1 . The parking brake will

be applied. Transmission position P (parking

lock) will be selected.

The selected driving program will be displayed in

the instrument cluster.

– D (Drive): Normal driving

– E (Efficiency): Economical driving

– S (Sport): Performance driving

– The parking brake status is shown on the selec-

tor lever and in the instrument cluster. The

parking lock status is shown in the instrument

cluster.

Audi recommends driving program D for everyday

use.

If you switch off the drive system when transmis-

sion position D or R is selected, transmission po-

sition P will be engaged automatically. If you

switch off the drive system in transmission posi-

tion N, transmission position P will be selected

automatically after approx. 30 minutes.

Selecting a transmission position

Important: The ignition must be switched on.

– Stop the vehicle and press the brake pedal.

– To select the next adjacent transmission posi-

tion, move the selector lever forwards or back-

wards to the first point of resistance.

Transmission position P will be selected automat-

ically if you release the driver’s seat belt and

open the driver’s door while the vehicle is sta-

tionary in transmission position D or R.

– To skip a transmission position (e.g. to go from

D to R), move the selector lever past the point

of resistance in the desired direction.

– You do not have to press the brake pedal if you

switch back and forth between D and R within

one second. This allows you to rock the car

backwards and forwards, e.g. to free it from

snow or mud, etc.

The drive system must be active in order to

change from P to D or R. Depending on the vehi-

cle’s equipment, the drive system may need to be

active in order to change to N.

– The selected transmission position will light up

on the selector lever.

Selecting a driving program

Press the selector lever downwards to switch be-

tween the current driving program and S.

Transmission position N (neutral)

No power is transmitted to the driven wheels in

transmission position N. Use transmission posi-

tion N, for example, in a tunnel car wash

ðpage 108.

If you select dynamic or efficiency mode in Audi

drive select, driving program S or E will be activa-

ted respectively. The driving program may be

switched back to D when the ignition is switched

off.



If you accidentally select transmission position N

while the vehicle is moving (at more than

100

Driving

Gear selection with paddle levers

WARNING

►

To change up: Press the paddle lever

+

– Before driving off, check that the desired

transmission position is displayed on the se-

lector lever.

ðFig. 72.

►

To change down: Press the paddle lever – .

To shift into the lowest possible gear for maxi-

mum acceleration, hold the paddle lever – .

To switch back to automatic mode, press and

hold the paddle lever + .

►

– Before leaving the vehicle, secure it to pre-

vent it from rolling away ðpage 99.

– In transmission positions D and R, the vehi-

cle must always be held with the foot brake

when the drive system is activated. This is

because the gearbox still transmits power

and the vehicle will “creep”.

►

Depending on the selected driving program and

Audi drive select mode, the gearbox may revert

to automatic mode if you do not operate one of

the paddle levers again within a short period.

– If the vehicle drives into an obstacle, e.g. a

higher curb, the vehicle will no longer creep

and it may roll back slightly - risk of acci-

dent! Creeping can be reactivated with the

accelerator or by changing the transmission

position/driving program.

Information on manual gear selection

– The gearbox only allows manual gear changes if

the engine speed would remain within the per-

missible range.

– The gearbox automatically shifts up or down in-

to the next gear before a critical engine speed

is reached.

– Do not press the accelerator before select-

ing a transmission position with the vehicle

stationary and the drive system switched on

– risk of accident!

– Never select transmission position R when

driving at normal speeds – risk of accident!

– The vehicle can roll away even if it is switch-

ed off.

Information on the accelerator pedal

You can use the accelerator pedal to increase the

vehicle’s speed.

Maximum acceleration

Manual gear selection

A kick-down function is available for maximum

engine output and acceleration if you press the

accelerator all the way down.

Applies to vehicles with boost function: In driving

programs D and S, the electric motor may cut in

briefly when the accelerator pedal is pressed

heavily. The availability of this function depends,

among other things, on the charge level of the

high-voltage battery and the temperature of the

drive components. The function may also be au-

tomatically activated earlier in Audi drive select

comfort or dynamic mode, depending on the

amount of power required.

Fig. 72 Steering wheel: Paddle levers

You can change gear manually in transmission

position D. The gearbox must be in tiptronic

mode. Depending on the active Audi drive select

mode, it may be possible to switch to manual

gear selection mode both when the vehicle is sta-

tionary and when it is moving.

WARNING

The driven wheels may start to spin when you

use the kick-down function, causing the vehi-

cle to lose grip, on slippery or wet roads – risk

of accident!

101

Driving

Using the launch control

CAUTION

The launch control gives you optimum accelera-

tion when starting from a standstill.

Accelerating with the launch control places a

heavy load on all parts of the vehicle. This can

result in increased wear and tear.

Availability

– Do not use the launch control when the ve-

hicle is in towing mode as this could result

in damage to the vehicle, trailer and load.

Whether this function is available depends on

the availability of the drive components.

Some vehicle components may be hot after accel-

erating with the launch control. In this case, the

function may not be available for several mi-

nutes. This is to avoid damage. The launch con-

trol will be available again after a cool-down peri-

od.

Driver messages about the selector lever

The following driver messages may appear, de-

pending on the equipment installed in your vehi-

cle:

 Gearbox overheating: please adapt driving

style

Important

– The engine must be warm.

The gearbox temperature has risen significantly.

Drive more passively or take a break until the

temperature is back to normal and the indicator

lamp has gone out.

– The steering wheel must be pointing straight

ahead.

– The hold function must be deactivated.

– The ESC must be restricted.

 Selector lever: fault. You can continue driv-

ing in current position until drive system off

– Driving program S must be selected and Audi

drive select must be set to dynamic mode.

A gearbox malfunction has occurred. The gearbox

will switch to the back-up programme. If you

switch the drive system off, you will not be able

to engage any other transmission positions after

the drive system is switched on again. Drive to a

qualified workshop without delay and have the

fault rectified.

Using the launch control

– Press the brake pedal with your left foot and

hold it down for at least one second.

– Keeping the brake pedal pressed, quickly press

the accelerator all the way down with your right

foot (kick-down function).

– The following driver message will appear:

Launch control programme: activated. When

the engine revs are high and steady, take your

foot off the brake.

 Selector lever: fault. Transmission mode can

only be changed using both paddle levers.

Please contact workshop

A selector lever malfunction has occurred. You

can continue driving but the selector lever is out

of operation. The transmission positions can only

be selected by simultaneously pulling both pad-

dle levers briefly while the vehicle is stationary.

Transmission position P will be selected automat-

ically when you switch the drive system off. Drive

to a qualified workshop without delay and have

the fault rectified.

Once the launch control or acceleration process is

complete, please remember to fully activate the

ESC again.

WARNING

Only use the launch control when road and

traffic conditions permit, and make sure your

driving style and acceleration do not incon-

venience or endanger other road users. The

driven wheels may start to spin, causing the

vehicle to lose grip, in particular on slippery or

wet roads – risk of accident!

 Selector lever: fault. You can continue driv-

ing. Please contact workshop soon



102

Driving

A selector lever malfunction has occurred. Drive

to a qualified workshop soon and have the fault

rectified.

switch automatically between electric driving and

hybrid driving.

Using recuperation

 Parking lock: fault. Please contact workshop

Depending on the vehicle’s equipment, the vehi-

cle may be able to recover energy via recupera-

tion. A large amount of the kinetic energy is

thereby converted into electrical energy and stor-

ed in the battery of the hybrid drive system. The

recuperation process causes the vehicle to decel-

erate in addition to the engine braking effect. De-

pending on the selected transmission position,

the recuperation feature may be activated when

you take your foot off the accelerator or press the

brake pedal.

A parking lock malfunction has occurred. You can

continue driving. However, you should drive to a

qualified workshop soon and have the fault recti-

fied. Secure the vehicle so that it cannot roll away

ðpage 99.

 P button: fault. Auto P when drive system

switched off. Please contact workshop

A malfunction has occurred on the P button on

the selector lever. Transmission position P will be

selected automatically when you switch the drive

system off. Drive to a qualified workshop without

delay and have the fault rectified.

Because the recuperation feature is used to slow

the vehicle down when you press the brake pedal,

the brakes are only used in addition as necessary.

This means that, by adopting a moderate driving

style, it is possible to brake the vehicle almost

down to a standstill using the recuperation func-

tion.

 P cannot be selected. Vehicle may roll away!

Please contact workshop

It is no longer possible to engage the parking

lock. Drive to a qualified workshop without delay

and have the fault rectified. Before leaving the

vehicle, secure it to prevent it from rolling away

ðpage 99.

Switching automatic recuperation on/off

You can switch automatic recuperation on/off in

the Car menu depending on the active Audi drive

select mode ðpage 26.

Engine

Information on running in

When this function is switched on, the recupera-

tion braking effect is based on predictive control,

e.g. allowing for the road or traffic ahead, de-

pending on the vehicle's equipment.

A new vehicle should be run in over the first

1,500 km so that all moving parts can settle in

together gently and the service life of the engine

and other powertrain components can be in-

creased.

When this function is switched off, predictive

control is not used when the vehicle is coasting

and the vehicle is controlled based on the selec-

ted transmission position instead.

For the first 1,000 km, do not exceed two thirds

of the engine’s maximum rpm speed and do not

accelerate at full throttle. You can increase the

engine speed gradually over the next 500 km.

When the ESC is restricted or switched off, the

automatic recuperation is unavailable and there

will be no braking effect.

Information on conventional and mild

hybrid drive

WARNING

In certain situations, the recuperation func-

tion can brake the vehicle in anticipation of

the route or traffic ahead; however the recu-

peration braking effect is limited. Always be

ready to apply the brakes – risk of accident!

Vehicles with conventional drive systems or mild

hybrid drive are powered by a combustion engine

which burns fuel to generate energy.

Vehicles with mild hybrid drive are equipped with

additional battery technology. These vehicles

103

Driving

ronment and those around you, particularly at

night.

Information on the vehicle sound

Electric motors are much quieter than combus-

tion engines. To make the vehicle more audible

when driving under electric power, an artificial

vehicle sound is produced on models for some

countries. The vehicle sound is faded out at high-

er speeds.

Information on energy management

Your vehicle is equipped with a smart energy

management system to control the distribution

of electrical energy. This significantly improves

reliability when starting the engine, and also pro-

longs the life of the vehicle battery.

WARNING

Other road users may not hear an electric ve-

hicle when it is moving. This applies in partic-

ular in areas with traffic calming measures,

when manoeuvring or reversing – risk of acci-

dent!

If the vehicle is driven frequently on short trips,

the battery may not be sufficiently charged while

driving. In this case, certain convenience func-

tions for electrical equipment may be temporari-

ly unavailable.

If the vehicle is left standing for long periods, or

if electrical equipment is used without running

the engine, the battery will gradually lose its

charge. To ensure that the vehicle can be started,

the electrical equipment is powered back or

switched off.

Driving in an efficient and environmentally

conscious way

Fuel and energy economy, environmental impact

and wear on the power unit, brakes and tyres de-

pend largely on the way you drive the vehicle. You

can drive in an efficient and environmentally con-

scious way by considering the following tips:

Driver messages about the drive system

– Select efficiency mode in Audi drive select.

– Activate the predictive efficiency messages.

– Switch off any electrical equipment you do not

need (e.g. seat heating).

The following driver messages may appear, de-

pending on the equipment installed in your vehi-

cle:



Drive system: fault. Safely stop vehicle

– Anticipate the traffic conditions to avoid unnec-

essary acceleration and braking.

– Avoid driving at high speeds.

A malfunction has occurred in the drive system.

The vehicle must not be driven any further. Con-

tinuing to drive can cause damage to the drive

system. Stop the vehicle in a safe place as soon

as possible. Before leaving the vehicle, secure it

to prevent it from rolling away ðpage 99. Seek

professional assistance.

– Remove ballast, such as roof racks or rear carri-

ers, when not needed.

– Make sure the tyres are inflated to the correct

pressure.

– Have the vehicle serviced regularly.

– Do not leave the engine running while the car is

stopped.



Drive system: fault. Please contact work-

shop

– Do not use winter tyres in summer.

– Brake early and evenly in order to use the recu-

peration function.

A malfunction has occurred in the drive system.

The vehicle’s performance may be limited. Drive

slowly to a qualified workshop and have the fault

rectified.

– Make use of the start/stop system.

– Make use of the engine braking effect.

– Avoid short trips.



Drive system: fault. Limited performance.

Please contact workshop



Sporty driving can lead to significantly higher

noise emissions. Please therefore be aware of

your social responsibilities and consider the envi-

104

Driving

Switching the start/stop system off and on

A malfunction has occurred in the drive system.

The power output is limited. Drive slowly to a

qualified workshop and have the fault rectified.

The  button is located in the centre console

above the selector lever. The button lights up

when the function is switched off. Depending on

the engine, it may not be possible to switch the

start/stop system off/on.



Drive system: fault. Limited performance.

No reverse gear. Please contact workshop

A malfunction has occurred in the drive system.

The power output is limited. You can no longer

engage reverse gear. Drive slowly to a qualified

workshop and have the fault rectified.

►

Press  to switch the function on/off.

If you switch off the system during a stop phase,

the engine will start again automatically.



Drive system: warning! Performance tempo-

Basic conditions

rarily restricted. Please adapt driving style. See

owner's manual

– The driver's door and bonnet must be closed.

– Transmission position P, N or D must be selec-

ted.

The performance is temporarily restricted due to

the ambient temperature or the temperature of

the drive components. Adjust your driving style

accordingly.

– The steering wheel must be relatively straight.

– The vehicle must have been moving at over

3 km/h since the last stop.



Vehicle sound: fault. Vehicle inaudible to pe-

Information on the start/stop system

destrians. Please contact workshop

– In certain situations, the engine may stop earli-

er while the vehicle is still coasting.

A vehicle sound fault has occurred. Drive ex-

tremely carefully, as other road users may not be

able to hear the vehicle under electric power.

Drive to a qualified workshop without delay and

have the fault rectified.

– If you select transmission position D after se-

lecting reverse gear, the car must have been

moving at over 10 km/h before the system can

switch off the engine again. This allows you to

manoeuvre the vehicle without the engine be-

ing switched off.

Start/stop system

Introduction

CAUTION

The start/stop system can help to save fuel and

Always switch off the start/stop system be-

fore driving through water.

reduce CO emissions. In start/stop mode, the

2

engine is switched off automatically when the ve-

hicle stops, e.g. at traffic lights.

Switching off/starting the engine

If certain conditions are met, the engine may be

switched off before the vehicle has come to a

standstill. If the brake pedal is released or the ac-

celerator pedal is pressed in this case, the engine

starts and delivers power again.

►

Apply the brakes and keep your foot on the

brake pedal until the vehicle is stationary. The

indicator lamp  will appear in the instrument

cluster as soon as the engine has been switched

off automatically.

The engine will start again automatically when

you take your foot off the brake pedal. The indi-

cator lamp will go out.

The ignition and important supporting systems,

e.g. the brake servo, remain available during the

stop phase. The engine is automatically started

on demand.

►

If the parking brake is applied or the hold func-

tion is switched on, the engine will only restart

when you press the accelerator pedal.

The start/stop system is automatically activated

each time you switch on the ignition.



105

Driving

Information on switching off/starting the

engine

This message appears if certain conditions have

not been met during the stop phase and the

start/stop system cannot start the engine again

– Keep your foot on the brake pedal during a stop

phase to prevent the vehicle from moving.

START ENGINE STOP

automatically. The

button

must be used to start the engine.

– If you press the

button

during a stop phase, the ignition will be switch-

ed off.

Brakes

– If you briefly leave the vehicle during a stop

phase and then get back in, you will need to

close the driver's door and fasten your seat belt

for the engine to start again.

Introduction

You can use the brake pedal to slow the vehicle

down. The braking effect of the brake pedal may

be affected by the automatic recuperation if this

is switched on.

– You can control whether or not the engine is

switched off by varying the amount of pressure

on the brake pedal. For instance, if you brake

gently in stop-and-go traffic or before turning

off at a junction, the engine will remain on

while the vehicle is at a standstill. As soon as

you press the brake pedal harder, the engine

will be switched off.

Noises

Brake noise may develop in certain situations, de-

pending on the speed, braking force and ambient

conditions (such as temperature and relative hu-

midity).

The brake system performs system tests at regu-

lar intervals while the vehicle is stationary and

shortly after the vehicle starts moving. Noises

may occur temporarily and haptic feedback may

be felt on the brake pedal.

Information on automatic starting/

stopping of the engine

Before and during each stop phase, the system

checks that certain conditions have been met and

decides whether to switch off the engine and for

how long. For instance, the engine is not switch-

ed off if the power consumption is high. Whether

or not the engine is started/stopped automatical-

ly depends on factors such as the following:

Braking effect

To ensure an optimum braking effect, the brake

pads are applied to the brake discs briefly at high

speeds when the windscreen wipers are on.

If the brake system is wet, e.g. after driving in

heavy rain, the braking effect may be delayed.

Further causes of a temporary increase in brake

response time include:

– Ambient conditions (downhill/uphill gradient,

altitude and temperature)

– Battery (charge level, temperature and power

consumption)

– Air conditioner

– Wet conditions

– Engine temperature

– Low temperatures, ice and snow

– Salted roads

– Driver assist systems

– Driving style

– Dirty brake pads

Corrosion

Driver messages about the start/stop

system

Corrosion can form on the brake discs if the car is

used infrequently, or if you only drive low mile-

ages. In this case, you can clean the brake discs

by braking firmly a few times from a moderately

The following driver messages may appear, de-

pending on the equipment installed in your vehi-

cle:

high speed ð

.



Drive system: please start vehicle manually

106

Driving

Brake pads

CAUTION

New brake pads do not give full braking effect for

the first 400 km, they must first be “bedded in”.

However, you can compensate for the slightly re-

duced braking effect by applying more pressure

on the brake pedal. Avoid placing a heavy load on

the brakes during the running-in period.

– Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving your

foot on the pedal when you do not really in-

tend to brake. This can cause the brakes to

overheat, resulting in longer stopping dis-

tances and greater wear.

– Please observe the important safety warn-

ings on driving on gradients ðpage 110.

This is especially important when towing a

trailer or caravan.

The rate of wear on the brake pads depends a

great deal on how you drive and the conditions in

which the vehicle is operated. For example, the

rate of wear will increase if the vehicle is used

frequently in city traffic, for short distances, or

for hard driving with abrupt starts and stops.

Driver messages about the brake system

The following driver messages may appear, de-

pending on the equipment installed in your vehi-

cle:

Multicollision brake assist system

The multicollision brake assist system can help to

reduce the risk of skidding and further collisions

during an accident. If the airbag control unit de-

tects that a collision has taken place, the ESC sys-

tem applies the brakes.

 Brakes: fault. Safely stop vehicle

A malfunction has occurred in the brake system.

If  and  also light up, this means that the

ABS, ESC and brake force distribution systems

have failed. You need to apply much more force

to operate the brakes if the brake servo fails.

The vehicle will not be braked automatically if:

– you apply the accelerator, or

– the brake pressure applied by pressing the

brake pedal is higher than the brake pressure

initiated by the system, or

Do not drive on. Seek professional assistance.

Please refer to the additional safety information

ð

.

– the ESC, the brake system or the vehicle's elec-

trical system are not fully functional.

 Brakes: function restricted. You can drive on

carefully. Please contact workshop

WARNING

A malfunction has occurred in the brake system.

There is a risk that the braking effect may be de-

layed. Drive to a qualified workshop without de-

lay and have the fault rectified.

– When applying the brakes to clean off de-

posits on the pads and discs, select a clear,

dry road. Be sure not to endanger other road

users; do not risk an accident.

 Brake pads: wear limit reached. You can con-

– All brake repairs must be carried out by a

qualified workshop working to the specifica-

tions of the Audi factory – risk of injury! Im-

proper repairs can also impair the function

of the system.

tinue driving. Please contact workshop

The brake pads are worn. Drive to a qualified

workshop soon and have the brake pads checked.

 Brake servo: restricted. You can continue

– Never let the vehicle coast with the power

unit switched off (this can cause accidents).

– If you wish to equip the vehicle with accesso-

ries such as a front spoiler or wheel covers,

it is important that the flow of air to the

brakes is not obstructed; otherwise the

brakes can overheat – risk of accident!

driving. Please contact workshop

There is a malfunction in the brake servo. The

brake servo remains available with reduced ca-

pacity. The brakes may perform differently than

usual. Drive to a qualified workshop without de-

lay and have the fault rectified.



107

Driving

Brake servo will be deactivated shortly. See

owner's manual

for concern. Noises may also occur when the ve-

hicle is stationary due to automatic test cycles.

The brake servo remains active for a short time

after the vehicle is switched off. Secure the vehi-

cle so that it cannot roll away ðpage 99.

Applying the parking brake via the button

Press the  button. The parking brake will be

applied. Transmission position P (parking lock)

will be selected.

Brake cleaning function active

The recuperation function is blocked in certain

weather conditions or if parts of the brake sys-

tem have recently been replaced to ensure that

the full braking effect is provided.

When  appears, the parking brake is keeping

the vehicle stationary. You can now take your foot

off the brake pedal.

If the red warning lamp flashes, insufficient brak-

ing force has been applied. Take additional meas-

ures to secure the vehicle so that it cannot roll

away when parked ðpage 99.

 Brakes: hot. Please adapt driving style

The brakes have been used intensively. This may

be because you left your foot on the brake pedal

or adopted a dynamic driving style, for example.

You can continue driving. Adapt your driving style

to reduce the load on the brakes.

Applying/releasing the parking brake via the

MMI

You can apply and release the parking brake man-

ually, independently of transmission position P

(parking lock).

 Brakes: risk of overheating. Please select D

and use recuperation

►

The brakes have been used intensively while driv-

ing downhill for an extended period. Follow the

instructions in the driver message to use the re-

cuperation function and take the load off the

brakes.

Select:  > Car > More > Electromechanical

parking brake.

To avoid noises when driving off, do not release

the parking brake manually when the vehicle is

parked on a hill or is heavily loaded.

WARNING

Putting the vehicle in neutral (to allow it to

roll)

If the ABS, ESC and brake force distribution

systems fail, input from the functions that

stabilise the vehicle is no longer available.

This could cause the vehicle to skid sideways.

Do not drive on. Seek professional assistance.

To prevent the parking brake from being applied

automatically (e.g. in a tunnel car wash), proceed

as follows:

Important: The vehicle must be stationary and

must be switched on. Press the brake pedal and

select transmission position N.

Electromechanical

parking brake

►

Confirm the message on the MMI, or

►

Select:  > Car > More > Ability to roll > Make

Operating the parking brake

vehicle able to roll after exit.

When you leave the vehicle, it will still be able

to roll.

The  button is located in the centre console

above the selector lever ðpage 99, Fig. 71.

►

To prevent the vehicle from rolling away again,

press the  button.

To activate/deactivate the message display

The electromechanical parking brake is intended

to prevent the vehicle from rolling away acciden-

tally.

►

when neutral (N) is selected, select:  > Vehi-

cle > More > Ability to roll > Show pop-up in

position N.

Any noises heard when the parking brake is ap-

plied or released are quite normal and no cause



108

Driving

In certain situations, such as when parking on a

hill, the hold function is deactivated automatical-

ly to enable manoeuvring. If you want to activate

the hold function again, press the brake pedal

again more firmly.

WARNING

– Always ensure that the vehicle is stopped

properly and safely – risk of accident!

– If the parking brake is engaged, it may be re-

leased automatically if the accelerator pedal

is pressed. Take care when pressing the ac-

celerator pedal and always make sure that

position P is selected when you park the ve-

hicle – risk of accident!

When the hold function is switched on, it stops

the vehicle from creeping forwards when you

take your foot off the brake pedal.

WARNING

– If the electrical power supply fails, it is not

possible to apply the parking brake (if it was

released) or to release the parking brake (if

it was applied). Before leaving the vehicle,

secure it to prevent it from rolling away

ðpage 99. Seek professional assistance.

– The hold function cannot keep the vehicle

stationary in all conditions on a gradient

(e.g. if the road is slippery or icy). Always be

ready to apply the brakes when using the

hold function.

– Always ensure that the vehicle is stopped

properly and safely – risk of accident!

CAUTION

The parking brake must not be allowed to be

applied automatically in a tunnel car wash.

Make sure that the vehicle is free to roll. Do

not switch the vehicle off – risk of damage!

CAUTION

If you come to a standstill without pressing

the brake pedal on a steep road, the vehicle

may roll back slightly before the hold function

holds the vehicle. In this case, you should

press the brake pedal.

Using the hold function

This function can help you to move off easily, for

example at traffic lights, on inclines or in stop-

start traffic.

Using the emergency braking function

You should only use the emergency braking func-

tion in a real emergency, for example if the brake

system were to fail or if the brake pedal were to

be obstructed. If you use the emergency braking

function, this has the same effect as heavy brak-

ing.

The hold function is generally activated automat-

ically on gradients when the vehicle is stationary.

The indicator lamp  will light up.

Important: The driver's door must be closed

and/or the driver's seat belt must be buckled.

The drive system must be switched on and trans-

mission position D or R or driving program S

must be selected.

►

Press and hold the  button while the vehicle

is moving.

►

A warning buzzer will sound and the emergency

Depending on the situation, you may need to ac-

tivate the hold function yourself.

braking procedure will be triggered.

If you release the button or press the accelera-

►

tor pedal, the emergency braking procedure

will be cancelled.

►

With the vehicle stationary, press and hold the

brake pedal.

►

Now increase the pressure on the brake pedal.

WARNING

►

When  appears, the vehicle is being held

automatically. You can now take your foot off

the brake pedal.

Press the accelerator pedal to drive off.

Heavy braking in corners or in bad road or

weather conditions can cause the vehicle to

skid or lose steering control – risk of accident!

►

109

Driving

The vehicle can no longer be held stationary.

Press the brake to prevent the vehicle from roll-

ing away.

Driver messages about the electrome-

chanical parking brake

The following driver messages may appear, de-

pending on the equipment installed in your vehi-

cle:

Special driving situations

Information on driving on hills and

gradients

 Parking brake: fault. Safely stop vehicle. See

owner's manual

Please follow the tips below when driving on hills

and gradients or at high altitudes:

 Parking brake: fault. Please release parking

brake

– Drive slowly and be ready for possible hazards.

– Do not try to turn round if you can’t make it up

a hill or gradient. Instead, drive back down in

reverse gear.

If one of these two messages appears, there is a

parking brake fault. If this message appears

while the vehicle is stationary, check whether the

parking brake can be released and reapplied. If

so, switch the vehicle off and on again.

– When driving down steep gradients, the down-

hill speed control function may be activated if

you press the brake pedal while in transmission

position D. The automatic gearbox will then se-

lect a suitable gear for the gradient and will at-

tempt to maintain the speed at which the vehi-

cle was travelling when the brakes were ap-

plied. You should still continue to use the

brakes as necessary. Downhill speed control is

deactivated as soon as the road levels out again

or you accelerate.

If the driver message still appears, if the parking

brake cannot be released or if the driver message

appears while the vehicle is moving, do not con-

tinue driving. Before leaving the vehicle, secure it

to prevent it from rolling away ðpage 99. Seek

professional assistance.

 Parking brake: fault. Please contact work-

shop

 Hold system: currently unavailable. See

owner's manual

– When driving down steep gradients, use the en-

gine braking effect by selecting driving pro-

gram S. This is especially important when tow-

ing a trailer or caravan. This will reduce the load

on the brakes.

There is a malfunction in the parking brake or

hold function. Drive to a qualified workshop with-

out delay to have the fault rectified. Do not park

the vehicle on a slope and secure the vehicle so it

cannot roll away ðpage 99.

– Use the hold function if appropriate.

WARNING

Parking brake: caution! Vehicle parked too

steep

– Drive only on gradients for which your vehi-

cle is designed. Do not exceed the vehicle’s

available climbing power. Your vehicle could

tip over or slide away.

Hold system: caution! Incline is too steep

If one of these two driver messages appears, the

braking force may not be sufficient to prevent the

vehicle from rolling away. Park the vehicle at a lo-

cation with a gradient that is less steep.

– Keep the vehicle straight when driving on

steep hills and gradients. If your vehicle is in

danger of tipping over, you must steer in the

direction of the gradient immediately – risk

of accident!

Parking brake is applied

The parking brake is applied. Press and hold the

brake pedal and release the parking brake.

– Always be ready to apply the brakes when

using the downhill speed control.



Please take over.

110

Driving

Information on driving through water

If you cannot avoid driving on a flooded road, you

should follow the advice below:

– Check the type of road surface under the water,

the strength of the current and the depth of

the water. The water must not be higher than

the vehicle's underbody, even allowing for

landslides, strong currents and waves.

– Deactivate the start/stop system.

– Drive carefully and not faster than walking pace

so that any waves created by the movement of

the car do not splash over the underbody. Bear

in mind that waves can also be created by on-

coming traffic.

– Do not stop the car in water.

– Do not drive in reverse.

– Do not switch off the drive system.

WARNING

After driving through water, carefully apply

the brakes to dry them and restore the full

braking power.

CAUTION

– Parts of the vehicle (e.g. drive system, gear-

box, running gear or electrical components)

can be badly damaged when driving through

water.

– Avoid driving through salt water to prevent

corrosion. If any vehicle parts come into

contact with salt water, rinse them with

fresh water – risk of damage!

111

Driving for Your Audi RS6 4 Door Fourth Generation (2019-2025)

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