🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

A6

Year:

1996

Generation:

C4 (Typ 4A)

Chassis Code:

Typ 4A

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium executive sedan, competing with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class of the era. Known for its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and refined interior.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1996 A6 (C4) offered a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, particularly its renowned Quattro AWD. Its segment competitors often focused more on luxury or sportiness, with Audi bridging the gap.

Key Features:

Quattro permanent all-wheel drive (optional on some models), luxurious interior materials, refined ride quality, powerful V6 and V8 engine options, advanced safety features for its time.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive service and repair for all major vehicle systems.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a full factory service manual).

Manual Type:

Digital Service and Repair Manual (Software/Online Access)

Language:

English

Format:

Online Web-based access, compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet via web browser.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (mechanical & electrical), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, axles, suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic & ABS), body (interior & exterior), HVAC, electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), diagnostics.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled services, troubleshooting diagnostics, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul procedures, electrical system diagnostics, wiring schematic interpretation, specifications, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Technical Depth:

In-depth, factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary online platform, not a downloadable file.

Print Quality:

N/A (digital format), content is high-resolution text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.8L V6 (AHA, ACK, ATX, AAH engine codes)

Horsepower 2 8L V6:

172-190 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market)

Torque 2 8L V6:

184-200 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and market)

Horsepower 2 2L Turbo I5:

227 hp

Torque 2 2L Turbo I5:

251 lb-ft

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with electronic engine control (ECU).

Optional Engine:

2.2L 20V Turbo I5 (AAN engine code) - S6 model

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (01A)

Transmission Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (097, 098, 01F - Tiptronic)

Features:

Optional Tiptronic automatic transmission allowed manual gear selection. Quattro AWD was standard on S6 and optional on other models.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 190.1 inches (4829 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.2 inches (1428 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500 - 3800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) depending on engine and drivetrain

Wheelbase:

Approx. 109.5 inches (2781 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings readily available for this model year in a comparable format to modern standards, but considered a safe vehicle for its era.

Active Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), standard power-assisted front disc and rear disc brakes.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, reinforced safety cage, side-impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM stereo cassette player with optional CD changer integration, premium sound system options available.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), optional cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (no integrated Bluetooth or smart device connectivity for this era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years for 2.8L V6 engines. For 2.2L Turbo, consult manual.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (API SJ or higher recommended, consult manual for exact specs and approvals like VW 500.00/501.01).

Coolant Specification:

G12 or G12+ ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. (Audi/VW specific G-series coolant is recommended).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

G 052 162 A1 (Pentosin ATF 1) or equivalent. Refer to manual for exact part number and specification.

Known Issues:

Ignition coil failures, mass air flow sensor issues, coolant flange leaks (especially plastic ones), ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, climate control flap actuator problems, CV joint wear, exhaust hanger fatigue, transmission control module (TCM) issues on automatics.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter W 914/2 or equivalent. Consult manual/parts catalog for exact OE or equivalent.

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C 35 138 or equivalent. Consult manual/parts catalog for exact OE or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Audi, a German automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing high-quality, innovative vehicles, with a strong heritage in motorsport and the development of advanced technologies like Quattro AWD.

Model Evolution:

The 1996 Audi A6 (C4) was the second generation of the A6, succeeding the Audi 100. It was a significant update with revised styling and updated technology. The C4 generation was produced from 1990 to 1997, with the A6 designation adopted in 1994.

Production Years:

1994-1997 (as A6, replacing the Audi 100)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Ingolstadt)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Audi A6 (C4) and its predecessor, the Audi 100, were generally well-regarded for their build quality, safety, and the performance of the Quattro system. While specific awards for the 1996 model are not widely highlighted, Audi as a brand consistently received praise for its engineering.