Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic & ABS), body electrical, climate control, body repair, interior components, and troubleshooting.
Engine Electrical Coverage:
Detailed diagnostics for ignition system, fuel injection system (CIS-Jetronic/Motronic), starting system, charging system, and engine control unit (ECU) functions. Includes component testing and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Drivetrain Coverage:
Covers front-wheel drive axles, driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differentials (for quattro models), and clutch system (for manual transmission).
Suspension Coverage:
Front and rear suspension components including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, anti-roll bars, and wheel bearings. Includes alignment specifications.
Steering Coverage:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, and tie rod ends. Includes troubleshooting for leaks and stiffness.
Brake Coverage:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, and parking brake. Detailed procedures for ABS system diagnostics and repair if equipped.
Body Electrical Coverage:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, power windows, central locking, wipers, horn, instrument panel, warning lights, and fuses/relays. Includes comprehensive wiring diagrams.
Climate Control Coverage:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (A/C) system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-drier), and blower motor. Includes refrigerant charging procedures and system troubleshooting.
Body Repair Coverage:
Basic body panel removal and installation, adjustment of doors, hoods, and trunk lids. May include information on corrosion protection and sealing.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, component diagnostics, repair procedures, overhaul instructions, electrical system troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, torque specifications, removal and installation of major components, and adjustment procedures.
Engine Overhaul Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshaft), cylinder head rebuilding, and engine reassembly with critical torque sequences.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Detailed procedures for manual transmission disassembly, component inspection, and repair. For automatic transmissions, it will cover fluid and filter changes, valve body diagnostics, and common repair strategies. Clutch replacement procedures for manual models.
Suspension Alignment Specs:
Specific camber, caster, and toe angle specifications for front and rear suspension, crucial for proper handling and tire wear.
Brake Bleed Procedure:
Detailed instructions on how to properly bleed the hydraulic brake system, including specific sequences for vehicles equipped with ABS.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, often color-coded, wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, facilitating efficient troubleshooting of electrical faults.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic troubleshooting charts and flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical problems, and mechanical malfunctions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical detailed procedure for timing belt replacement, including camshaft and crankshaft timing marks, tensioner adjustment, and necessary component removal/installation, crucial for the 5-cylinder engines.
Technical Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, in-depth repair instructions, and complete overhaul guides, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools:
While OBD-I was in its infancy, the manual will detail the use of specific diagnostic connectors and basic diagnostic equipment relevant to the era's technology.
Rebuild Instructions:
Instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds, including part specifications and tolerances.
Service Intervals:
Typical intervals include: Oil and filter change every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months. Spark plug replacement typically around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Timing belt replacement is critical, typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years for the 5-cylinder engine (refer to manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40) and API service classification (e.g., API SG or SH). Typically 4.5-5 liters for the 2.3L engine.
Coolant Specification:
G11 coolant (phosphate-free, silicate-free coolant with ethylene glycol base). Capacity approximately 8-9 liters.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Check reservoir level regularly.
Transmission Fluid Specification Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF. Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
Typically CHF 11S or equivalent power steering fluid. Check reservoir for markings.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approximately 1.5-2.0 liters.
Known Issues:
Common issues can include fuel distributor problems, aging vacuum lines, worn suspension components (bushings, ball joints), electrical gremlins (especially with door locks and climate control), and potential rust in common areas like wheel arches and sills. Timing belt failure can be catastrophic on the 5-cylinder engines, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to replacement intervals.
Common Electrical Faults:
Door lock actuators, central locking pump failure, intermittent dashboard warning lights, and HVAC control unit issues are not uncommon due to age.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter W914/2 or equivalent. Specific part numbers will be detailed in the manual.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C23431 or equivalent. Specific part numbers will be detailed in the manual.