2012-2018 Audi A6, A7, S6, S7 & RS7 Spare Wheel Guide: Fitment, Warnings & Common Issues

The C7 Platform Emergency Spare Wheel: 4G0601027E

Many Audi A6, A7, S6, S7, and RS7 models from 2012-2018 were delivered from the factory with a tire inflator kit instead of a spare wheel to save weight. Part number 4G0601027E is the genuine OEM emergency spare wheel for these vehicles. It is a black steel wheel designed for temporary use only.

Key Specifications

Common Issues with Standard Alloy Wheels (2012-2018)

While the spare wheel is straightforward, the standard alloy wheels on the A6, A7, S6, S7, and RS7 are known for a few common issues. These problems are more frequent on vehicles with larger diameter wheels (19, 20, and 21-inch) and low-profile tires, which offer less cushioning against road hazards.

Bent or Cracked Wheels

The most frequent complaint from owners is bent or cracked wheels after hitting a pothole. The combination of a heavy vehicle and short, stiff tire sidewalls puts the aluminum rim at high risk. A bent wheel is often repairable, but a cracked wheel should always be replaced for safety.

Clear Coat Peeling

Some owners report the protective clear coat on their factory wheels peeling or developing a hazy, white appearance. This is often caused by harsh wheel cleaning chemicals or environmental factors. Once the clear coat is compromised, the aluminum beneath can begin to corrode.

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Wheel

• Vibrations: A vibration or shimmy felt in the steering wheel, especially at highway speeds, is a classic sign of a bent or out-of-balance wheel. While other issues like worn tires or suspension components can cause vibrations, a bent wheel is a common culprit.
• Difficulty Holding Air: If a tire constantly loses air pressure without any obvious puncture, it could be due to a hairline crack in the wheel or a bend in the bead area where the tire seals.
• Visible Damage: A visual inspection may reveal curb rash, peeling finish, or more serious damage like cracks or flat spots on the inner or outer lip of the wheel.

Buying a Used Wheel: What to Inspect

A used OEM wheel can be a high-quality, cost-effective replacement. However, careful inspection is critical to avoid buying a dangerous or unusable part.

1. Check for Cracks

Thoroughly inspect the entire wheel, front and back. Pay close attention to the area where the spokes meet the barrel and around the lug holes. Hairline cracks can be difficult to see, so clean the wheel and use a bright light. A cracked wheel is unsafe and cannot be safely repaired.

2. Look for Bends

Lay the wheel on a flat, level surface to check for bends. Look for any flat spots or warping on both the inner (barrel side) and outer (face side) lips. The best way to check for a bend is to have it spun on a wheel balancing machine, which will quickly reveal any deviation.

3. Inspect for Previous Repairs

4. Verify Specifications

Check the back of the wheel for stamped markings. Confirm the part number, size (e.g., 19x8.5), and offset (e.g., ET43). Using a wheel with the wrong offset can cause serious problems.

Understanding Wheel Offset

Offset is the distance from the wheel's mounting surface to its centerline. Using a wheel with the wrong offset can:

• Cause Rubbing: Too little offset (a lower number) pushes the wheel outward, risking contact with the fender. Too much offset (a higher number) pulls the wheel inward, where it can rub against suspension components or brake calipers.
• Affect Handling: Incorrect offset changes the car's suspension geometry, which can negatively impact steering feel and stability.
• Increase Wear: It can put additional stress on wheel bearings and other suspension parts, leading to premature failure.

Verifying Paint and Color Codes for Alloy Wheels

If you are buying a used alloy wheel to match your existing set, verifying the color is important. The steel spare wheel is only available in black. For alloy wheels, Audi places a vehicle information sticker in the trunk, typically in the spare wheel well under the floor carpet. This sticker contains the paint code, which is often a four-digit code containing letters and numbers (e.g., LY9T). This code identifies the exact color of your vehicle's body, and wheel colors often have their own specific finish names (like 'Hyper Silver' or 'Titanium Finish') that may not be on this sticker. When in doubt, visually matching the wheel in person is the best approach.

Known Issues, Recalls & TSBs

• Recalls: There are no major recalls specifically for wheels on these models. However, a significant safety recall was issued for the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) which affects the 2012-2018 A6, A7, S6, S7, and RS7. This system can fail and prevent the passenger airbag from deploying.
• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Audi has released several TSBs related to vibrations felt through the steering wheel. While some are related to tire and wheel balancing procedures, many point towards issues with front wheel bearings, which can produce a humming or buzzing noise that changes with speed. 🎬 Watch: Hear what a failing C7 wheel bearing sounds like. Another TSB addresses clunking noises from the front suspension, often caused by failing control arm bushings.
🎬 See how a worn bushing causes suspension popping and clunking.

Cost Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)