Segment:
Compact executive/premium sedan and wagon
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, enthusiast communities
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36/E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus ES, Volvo S70/V70
Vehicle Appeal:
Sporty handling, sophisticated interior, available Quattro all-wheel drive, refined turbocharged engines
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling cost savings and comprehensive vehicle care
Engine Coverage:
All gasoline and diesel engines for the B5 generation
Transmission Coverage:
Manual and automatic transmissions, including Quattro all-wheel drive systems
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust system, body structure, and collision repair
Electrical Coverage:
Complete electrical system, including wiring diagrams, diagnostics, ECUs, and accessory systems
Interior Coverage:
Interior trim, seats, climate control, airbags, and infotainment systems
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, starting and charging
Transmission Systems:
Clutch, manual gearbox components, automatic transmission valve body and hydraulic control, torque converter, drivetrain (axles, CV joints, differentials)
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, hydraulic lines, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), power steering system, steering rack
Electrical Systems:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics, fuses, relays, wiring schematics
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, climate control unit
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, timing belt/chain replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures for sensors and actuators
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all components, from minor bulbs to major engine parts
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific Audi special tools required for certain procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and wiring diagrams
Engine Codes Gasoline:
AHA, APB, AEB, ADR, APU, ACK, ALG, AMB, ATQ, AVV, AWL, AVANT
Engine Codes Diesel:
AHH, AFF, AJM, AVG
Engine 1 8L Turbo 20V Specs:
1.8L Inline-4 turbocharged, 150-180 hp, 165-170 lb-ft torque (e.g., AEB, AMB, ATQ)
Engine 2 8L V6 30V Specs:
2.8L V6 30v, 190-200 hp, 207 lb-ft torque (e.g., ACK, AHA, ALG)
Engine 2 7L V6 Bi-Turbo Specs:
2.7L V6 Bi-turbo (S4 model), 250 hp, 258 lb-ft torque (e.g., APB)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) / Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91+ recommended for turbocharged engines), Diesel (TDI models)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack systems
Emission Standards:
Meets EPA/CARB standards for respective model years; OBD-II diagnostics
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., 012, 01A)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (e.g., 01V)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Transmission Fluid Specs Automatic:
G 052 162 A1/A2 (Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent, check specific model year)
Transmission Fluid Specs Manual:
G 052 171 A2 / G 052 512 A2 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 gear oil, consult manual)
Length:
Approx. 177.3 inches (sedan), 178.2 inches (avant)
Width:
Approx. 69.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 55.8 inches (sedan), 56.1 inches (avant)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200 - 3600 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)
Towing Capacity:
Generally not recommended or rated for significant towing; check local regulations and specific vehicle documentation
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for applicable model years/testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (for applicable model years/testing)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Child Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH compatible child seat anchors
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific engine/oil type)
Timing Belt Interval:
For 1.8T and 2.8 V6: 105,000 miles or 5 years (critical replacement interval)
Spark Plug Interval:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (platinum/iridium)
Coolant Type:
G 12 / G 12+ (Ethylene Glycol based, silicate-free, pink color)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for most models)
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common Issues 1 8T:
Coil pack failure, PCV system issues (crankcase ventilation), turbocharger oil feed line leaks, vacuum leaks, coolant flange leaks
Common Issues V6:
Timing chain tensioner guides wear, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), coolant flange leaks
Common Issues Suspension:
Front control arm bushings wear, sway bar links, torn CV boots
Common Issues Electrical:
Instrument cluster pixelation (FIS display), door lock actuator failure, HVAC blower resistor failure
Audi Legacy:
Audi's reputation for engineering, quality, and innovation, particularly with Quattro technology
B5 Generation Introduction:
Launched in 1995 (for model year 1996 in Europe, 1997 in North America) as a replacement for the Audi 80/90. Known for its significant chassis improvements and modern styling.
Facelift:
Mid-cycle refresh in 1999 (for model year 2000) with revised bumpers, headlights, taillights, interior materials, and engine updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
Ingolstadt, Germany; Brussels, Belgium
Production Period:
1995-2001 (Europe), 1997-2001 (North America)