Positioning:
Premium compact/mid-size executive sedan, known for its sophisticated design, Quattro all-wheel drive, and high-quality engineering. Targeted at discerning buyers seeking a balance of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz 190E, Lexus ES 250/300, Acura Legend
Highlighted Features:
Quattro AWD system, available V6 engines, upscale interior, solid build quality, distinctive Audi styling.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Digital format, equivalent to several hundred printed pages)
Type:
Official Factory Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Web-based Access
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (2.6L V6, 2.8L V6), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD), manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, charging system, starting system, engine control unit (ECU), body electricals, climate control, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, steering rack repair, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics, fuel system testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and component replacement procedures.
Engine Code And Description:
AAH (2.8L V6 SOHC, 172 hp @ 5500 rpm, 184 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm), ACE (2.6L V6 SOHC, 150 hp @ 5700 rpm, 157 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm)
Horsepower Range:
150-172 hp
Torque Range:
157-184 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Engine Control (EEC-IV or similar)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant depends on engine and market)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Tipronic optional on some later models, but less common on the '94 90)
AWD System:
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive (available on most models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (e.g., Audi G 052 911 A1)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Audi G 052 990 A2)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2610 mm (102.8 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4405 mm (173.4 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 inches)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs) depending on FWD/Quattro and equipment
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 195/65R15, 205/55R16
NHTSA Ratings 1994:
Specific ratings for 1994 models may not be readily available or standardized as modern crash tests. However, Audi of this era was known for solid construction.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Solid discs. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on many Quattro models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD changer. Basic speaker configurations.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, primarily on Quattro models.
Features:
Limited by era. Primarily focused on vehicle operation rather than external connectivity. Central locking, power windows/mirrors on higher trims.
HVAC System:
Manual climate control with optional automatic climate control. Heater core is a known potential failure point.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, using synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96/A3-98, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Specification:
G12 or G12+ (Pink/Purple) ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), CV joints (especially on Quattro models), heater core (prone to leaks), ABS sensors, ignition components (distributor, coil, spark plug wires).
Engine Specific Issues:
V6 engines can be sensitive to timing belt maintenance. Vacuum leaks can cause idle issues. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common with age.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on grounds and connectors, failing climate control head units, early OBD-I diagnostic system can be less intuitive than later OBD-II.
Heritage Summary:
Audi, a German automotive manufacturer, has a long history of engineering innovation, particularly with its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and advancements in FWD technology. Part of the Volkswagen Group.
Evolution Timeline:
The Audi 90 was an evolution of the Audi 80, positioned as a more premium and powerful variant, often featuring V6 engines and the Quattro system. The 1994 model is part of the Type 89 (B3/B4) generation, which introduced significant design and engineering updates.
Production Location:
Ingolstadt, Germany and other Volkswagen Group facilities.
