Positioning:
Premium mid-size sedan, competing with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Lexus GS
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Lexus GS (JZS160), Volvo S80
Platform:
Based on the Volkswagen Group PL45 platform, shared with the Audi 100
Technology:
Available quattro all-wheel drive, advanced suspension design for its era
Interior:
High-quality materials, ergonomic design, spacious cabin
General Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Page Count Estimated:
Extensive (Digital format, equivalent to thousands of pages in printed form)
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software (Web Browser Accessible)
Engine:
All engine types including 2.8L V6 (AFC, AHA) and 2.5L TDI V6 (AAT, ABP), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, emissions control
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, axles
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc brake systems (front and rear), parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack/gearbox
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, instrument cluster, basic diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, and service
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, bumpers, exterior lighting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements), brake inspections, tire rotations, tune-ups
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, belts, hoses, water pump), brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic procedures for various systems, symptom-based diagnosis
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications for all major components and systems
Depth:
In-depth, factory-level repair and diagnostic information suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Engine Option 1:
2.8L V6 (12-valve SOHC) - AFC, AHA
Engine Displacement 1:
2771 cc (169 cu in)
Engine Bore Stroke 1:
82.5 mm x 91.3 mm (3.25 in x 3.60 in)
Engine Compression Ratio 1:
10.3:1
Engine Horsepower 1:
172 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Engine Torque 1:
184 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 2:
2.5L TDI V6 (12-valve SOHC Turbocharged Diesel) - AAT, ABP
Engine Displacement 2:
2461 cc (150 cu in)
Top Speed:
Electronically limited to 130 mph (210 km/h) for most models
Fuel Delivery V6:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic
Fuel Type V6:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (premium) recommended
Fuel Delivery Tdi:
Direct Injection, Turbocharged Diesel (TDI) with rotary injection pump
Fuel Type Tdi:
Diesel fuel
NHTSA Driver Front:
Not specifically rated for 1997, but generally performed well for its era
NHTSA Passenger Front:
Not specifically rated for 1997
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front-seat pre-tensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 2.8L V6 (AFC, AHA): Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 145,000 km). Crucial to follow manual recommendations due to interference engine design.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approximately every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil V6:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic or semi-synthetic oil meeting VW 500.00 or 501.01 specifications. Capacity: Approx. 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters).
Engine Oil Tdi:
SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic diesel engine oil meeting VW 505.00 specifications. Capacity: Approx. 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters).
Coolant:
G12 (or G12+) coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Capacity: Approx. 9.0 - 10.5 quarts (8.5 - 10.0 liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Ignition Coils V6:
Premature failure of ignition coils can lead to misfires and rough running.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings and other suspension components can lead to clunking noises and poor handling.
ABS Sensors:
Failure of ABS wheel speed sensors can illuminate the ABS warning light and disable the system.
Climate Control Module:
Occasional failures of the automatic climate control module can lead to inconsistent temperature control or blower fan issues.
Tdi Glow Plugs:
Glow plug issues can affect cold starting on diesel models.
