I have a 2003 RS6 with 24,000 miles. In January I had the 35,000 mile warranty work done since my car was coming off warranty.
Friday on the way home from work the car started shaking. At first I thought I had a flat tire. I stopped the car to check the tires and then noted the engine warning light came on. I read the manual and it noted the warning light, but the manual did not say to stop driving the car. I restarted the car and headed home. About 5 miles later the car died.
After sitting on the highway for 2 1/2 hours the car was taken via flat bed to a dealer.
They called to tell me that something really bad has happened. They are unable to manually turn over the engine. Sounds bad huh?

 

Sounds like a timing belt, or tensioner let go. Most likely the valves were starting to collide with the pistons. Now, the valves are most likely broke off in the tops of the pistons. Making it very difficult to rotate the motor.

Sorry to hear.

Mike

 

Ouch... always heed the dreaded red light. Expensive lesson to learn.