🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

90

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

Typ 8A

Platform:

B3

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Affluent buyers seeking a sporty, well-engineered German automobile

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz 190E, Ford Sierra XR4i, Saab 900

Design:

Aerodynamic styling, galvanized body shell, distinctive Audi grille

Drivetrain:

Available quattro all-wheel drive system, renowned for its traction and handling

Powertrain:

Smooth and torquey 5-cylinder inline engines

Interior:

Driver-focused cockpit, quality materials, ergonomic design

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Comprehensive Repair and Maintenance

Included Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Body

Estimated Pages:

1200+

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (2.3L 5-cylinder, 2.0L 4-cylinder variants), fuel injection systems (KE-Jetronic, Digifant), ignition systems, exhaust systems, manual and automatic transmissions, all-wheel drive system (quattro)

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system (power steering), brake system (ABS diagnosis and repair), wheel bearings, hubs

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, instrument cluster, starter, alternator, battery, ECU diagnosis, fuse/relay identification and testing, power windows, mirrors, central locking

Comfort And Body:

HVAC system operation and repair, interior trim removal, door panel access, body panel alignment, bumper repair, seal replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting flowcharts, fault code interpretation (where applicable), diagnostic connector location and usage

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid checks and top-offs

Repair Rebuild:

Component removal and installation, engine internal component overhaul (pistons, rings, bearings), cylinder head service, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension bushing replacement

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance measurements, diagnostic data ranges

Depth:

Expert Level - Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Full text searchable

Printability:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and photos

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

WX (2.3L 5-cylinder)

Displacement 2 3:

2309 cc

Configuration 2 3:

Inline 5-cylinder, DOHC

Bore X Stroke 2 3:

82.5 mm x 92.8 mm

Compression Ratio 2 3:

10.3:1

Power Hp 2 3:

137 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque Lb Ft 2 3:

155 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code Common Optional:

RT (2.0L 4-cylinder)

Displacement 2 0:

1996 cc

Configuration 2 0:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Power Hp 2 0:

115 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque Lb Ft 2 0:

129 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (5-cylinder), Digifant (some 4-cylinders)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual

Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-4, SAE 75W-90

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

ATF Dexron II

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1390 mm (54.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2610 mm (102.8 in)

Curb Weight FWD:

Approx. 1260 kg (2778 lbs)

Curb Weight Quattro:

Approx. 1330 kg (2932 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year, but generally considered robust for its era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional on some models, standard on higher trims

Traction Control:

Not typically available on this model year

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional or not available depending on market and trim

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel front seatbelts, 3-point rear seatbelts

Body Construction:

Unitary construction with galvanized steel body for corrosion resistance

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo, often with cassette changer capability. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with A/C and heater. Automatic climate control was an option on some higher-trim models.

ABS:

Available, but not universally standard.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to factory radio and power accessories. No integrated Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on operating conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), 60,000 miles (if equipped with platinum plugs).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for 5-cylinder engines to prevent valve damage).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-40 Synthetic or 10W-40 Synthetic/Semi-synthetic is generally recommended for optimal performance and protection, especially in colder climates. Refer to owner's manual for specific grade.

Coolant Spec:

G11 (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problems Electrical:

Degradation of wiring insulation (especially in engine bay), faulty instrument cluster senders, failing door lock actuators, intermittent headlamp issues.

Common Problems Engine:

Vacuum leaks (affecting idle and performance), failing fuel pressure regulator, worn distributor cap/rotor (on some models), timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule).

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn control arm bushings, leaky power steering racks, worn tie rod ends, noisy wheel bearings.

Common Problems HVAC:

Leaky heater core, failing blower motor resistor, aging AC system components (compressor, O-rings).

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter W 914/2, Mahle OX 14, Bosch 72214 (Verify for specific engine variant)

Timing Belt Kit Example:

Gates TCK158, INA 530005310 (Includes belt, tensioner, idler pulley - always replace as a kit)

📚 Vehicle History

Audi Legacy:

Audi has a long history of engineering excellence, particularly in quattro all-wheel-drive technology and sophisticated engine design, originating from Germany.

Predecessor:

Audi 80/Fox

Positioning:

The Audi 90 was positioned as a more upscale and performance-oriented version of the Audi 80, often featuring more powerful engines and quattro.

Generation Details:

The 1990 model year falls within the second generation of the Audi 90 (Typ 8A), which was based on the B3 platform.

Production Years:

1984-1991 (globally for this generation of 90/80)

Manufacturing Location:

Ingolstadt, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

Not directly awarded to the 90, but Audi as a brand has received numerous accolades for engineering and design.

Consumer Reports Historical:

Often praised for its performance, build quality, and quattro system, but occasional concerns regarding electrical reliability and repair costs were noted in period reviews.