The 1996 Audi A4, built on the B5 platform, represents a significant entry into the compact executive sedan and wagon segment. Known for its premium appointments, sophisticated styling, and German engineering, the A4 offered a compelling alternative to competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It was recognized for its driving dynamics and refinement, earning a place on Car and Driver's 10Best list. Available with a 1.8L turbocharged inline-four producing approximately 150 horsepower or a 2.8L V6 generating around 172 horsepower, the A4 provided a balance of performance and efficiency, with options for front-wheel drive or the renowned Audi quattro all-wheel-drive system. Its robust construction and advanced features for the era contributed to its reputation for quality and reliability.
This System Wiring Electrical Diagram Manual provides comprehensive coverage of the electrical systems within the 1996 Audi A4. It details Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission Control, ABS, Airbag System, Climate Control, Power Steering, Body Control Modules, Lighting, Audio System, Instrumentation, Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Antitheft System, Wiper/Washer System, Cruise Control, and Diagnostics and Fault Codes. The manual includes detailed troubleshooting procedures, component testing instructions, wiring repair guidance, advanced diagnostic capabilities, component location diagrams, and connector pinouts. This resource is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and technicians in effectively maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the electrical aspects of the vehicle, ensuring its optimal performance and longevity.
Chassis Code:
B5 Platform
Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus ES300, Acura TL
Premium Appointments:
Known for its refined interior, sophisticated styling, and German engineering.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Volkswagen Group B5 platform, shared with the Volkswagen Passat B5.
Systems Covered:
Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission Control, ABS, Airbag System, Climate Control, Power Steering, Body Control Modules, Lighting, Audio System, Instrumentation, Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Antitheft System, Wiper/Washer System, Cruise Control, Diagnostics and Fault Codes
Page Count:
Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for comprehensive wiring diagrams)
Manual Type:
System Wiring Electrical Diagram Manual
Format:
Printed Manual (typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound)
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of all electrical circuits and components within the 1996 Audi A4.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for electrical faults, including symptom analysis and diagnostic flowcharts.
Component Testing:
Instructions on how to test individual electrical components using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Wiring Repair:
Guidance on identifying wiring harness issues, proper repair techniques (splicing, crimping, soldering), and component replacement.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic capabilities, including interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and signal tracing.
Component Location:
Diagrams indicating the physical location of electrical components, relays, fuses, and control modules within the vehicle.
Connector Pinouts:
Detailed pinout diagrams for all major electrical connectors, crucial for diagnostics and repairs.
File Format:
N/A (Printed)
Print Quality:
High-quality, clear line drawings and diagrams suitable for professional use.
Binding Type:
Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock resistant to shop fluids and frequent handling.
Engine Code Gasoline:
2.8L V6: AHA, APB (Later years, but early variants likely shared similar blocks); 1.8L Turbocharged I4: AEB
Horsepower V6:
Approximately 172 hp @ 5800 rpm (2.8L V6)
Torque V6:
Approximately 191 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2.8L V6)
Horsepower I4:
Approximately 150 hp @ 5700 rpm (1.8T)
Torque I4:
Approximately 155 lb-ft @ 1750-4600 rpm (1.8T)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Configuration:
Front-mounted, Transverse (I4) or Longitudinal (V6)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 5 Valves per Cylinder (common on V6)
Transmission Standard:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Optional:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (with manual shift mode)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
G 005 000 (GL-4) or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 (ATF) or equivalent synthetic automatic transmission fluid
Length:
Approximately 4518 mm (177.9 in)
Width:
Approximately 1733 mm (68.2 in)
Height:
Approximately 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2613 mm (102.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1450-1550 kg (3200-3400 lbs) depending on engine and drivetrain
NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:
4/5 Stars (1996 model)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:
4/5 Stars (1996 model)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory Audi Chorus or Concert radio with cassette player and CD changer preparation. Optional Bose sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Telematics:
Limited connectivity by modern standards; pre-wiring for optional car phone on some models.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights; projector-style headlights available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Replace annually or as needed, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Change:
Replace every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil, meeting VW 502 00 or VW 505 00 specifications.
Coolant Specification:
G 12 (Pink) or G 12+ (Purple) coolant, or an equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze meeting Audi specifications.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Ignition Coils:
Coil-on-plug (or distributorless ignition system) failures were common, leading to misfires.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals are prone to leaking over time.
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings and tie rod ends can wear out, affecting steering and ride quality.
ABS Sensor Failure:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS warning lights.
Climate Control Actuators:
Blend door actuators in the HVAC system can fail, leading to improper temperature control.
Audi Legacy:
Audi has a long history of engineering innovation, particularly in quattro all-wheel-drive systems and advanced engine technology.
A4 Introduction:
The A4 replaced the Audi 80/90 and marked a significant step forward in Audi's design language and technology adoption.
B5 Platform:
The B5 platform was a crucial generation, establishing Audi's presence in the premium compact executive segment.
Production Period:
1994-2001 (B5 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Ingolstadt, Germany; Brussels, Belgium
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Audi A4 (B5) was frequently listed on Car and Driver's 10Best list in its segment during its production run, recognizing its driving dynamics and refinement.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Generally received good to above-average ratings in initial quality surveys for its class.
