Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Acura TL
Platform:
Shared platform with Volkswagen Passat B5, known for its sophisticated independent suspension.
Drivetrain Options:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Audi's renowned Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Design Language:
Understated and elegant styling, a hallmark of Audi design from this era.
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a premium European driving experience, refined interiors, and advanced safety features.
Engine:
All gasoline and diesel engine variants (1.6L, 1.8L, 1.9L TDI, 2.4L, 2.8L)
Transmission:
Manual & Automatic Transmissions (including Quattro AWD)
Brakes:
Hydraulic Brake System, ABS, Traction Control (ASR)
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System Schematics, Diagnostics, ECU, Sensors, Lighting, Power Accessories
Suspension:
Front McPherson Strut, Rear Independent Multi-link, Damping, Bushings
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Column
Fuel:
Fuel Injection Systems (MPI/GDI), Fuel Pump, Lines, Tank, Emissions Control
Cooling:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Flow, Climate Control
Exhaust:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Oxygen Sensors
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Locks, Windows, Mirrors, Body Sealing
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System Components and Diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), Fluid Level Checks, Inspections
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, common fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Component Replacement (e.g., timing belt, water pump, brake pads, CV joints), Engine Mechanical Repairs, Transmission Overhaul
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) code retrieval and interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing
Adjustments:
Wheel Alignment, Clutch Adjustment (if applicable), Headlight Aiming
Installation:
Component installation procedures (e.g., timing belt kit, brake rotors, starter motor)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and bodywork.
1.8L Turbo (1.8T):
Inline-4, 20-valve DOHC, Turbocharged, Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI). Output: ~150 hp @ 5700 rpm, ~164 lb-ft torque @ 1950 rpm. Engine codes: AEB, ATW, AWM.
2.8L V6 (2.8):
60-degree V6, 30-valve DOHC, Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI). Output: ~190 hp @ 6000 rpm, ~200 lb-ft torque @ 3200 rpm. Engine codes: ACK, AML, APB.
1.9L Tdi:
Inline-4, 8-valve SOHC, Turbocharged Direct Injection Diesel. Output: ~90 hp @ 4000 rpm, ~144 lb-ft torque @ 1900 rpm. Engine codes: AHU, AHH.
Acceleration 0 60 Mph 1.8T:
Approx. 8.0-9.0 seconds (FWD/Quattro)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph 2.8:
Approx. 7.0-8.0 seconds (FWD/Quattro)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for 1.8T), Diesel fuel for TDI
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors (Lambda sensors), EVAP system
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (for most engine variants)
Optional Transmission:
Tiptronic 5-speed Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode)
Quattro AWD:
Torsen center differential for permanent all-wheel drive with biased torque distribution.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual)
Manual Trans Fluid:
G 052 171 A2 (or equivalent GL-4 manual transmission fluid)
Automatic Trans Fluid:
G 055 025 A2 (or equivalent ATF for ZF 5HP19FL)
Length:
4516 mm (177.8 in)
Height:
1419 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2606 mm (102.6 in)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 455 Liters (16.1 cu ft)
Curb Weight 1.8T:
Approx. 1420-1500 kg (3130-3307 lbs)
Curb Weight 2.8:
Approx. 1520-1590 kg (3351-3505 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 2000-2100 kg (4409-4630 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (driver/passenger) for 1999 model year
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated for this specific year and model, but generally performed well for its class.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional/Standard depending on trim, Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX (LATCH) anchor points in rear seats (standard in most markets).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years (depending on engine and usage). Critical for interference engines like the 1.8T.
Spark Plug Replacement:
1.8T: ~60,000 miles (check for specific types like platinum/iridium). V6: ~100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 specifications.
Coolant Type:
G 12 (pink/red ethylene glycol coolant) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3, check owner's manual for exact specification).
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failure (1.8T), PCV system issues (oil leaks, rough idle), cam adjuster seals leaking (V6), CV joint wear, ABS sensor failures, coolant flange leaks.
Timing Belt Failure Impact:
For interference engines (1.8T, 2.4, 2.8), timing belt failure will cause catastrophic internal engine damage (bent valves, damaged pistons).
Audi History:
Audi AG, a German automobile manufacturer, has a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for engineering, Quattro AWD, and sophisticated design.
Audi A4 Generation:
The 1999 A4 belongs to the B5 generation (1994-2001/2002), which marked a significant step forward in refinement and technology for Audi's compact executive offering.
B5 Platform Changes:
The B5 platform introduced a more modern chassis, independent multi-link rear suspension, and longitudinal engine mounting, improving handling and ride comfort.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production was in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, Germany.
Production Years B5:
1994-2001 (Europe), 1995-2001 (North America)
