Segment:
Executive Sedan / Large Family Car
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Volvo S90
Premium Offering:
Offered Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system, refined interiors, and robust engineering.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized understated luxury, technological advancement, and driver engagement.
Demographic:
Affluent professionals and families seeking a comfortable, safe, and capable vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain components (CV joints, driveshafts, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheel and tire specifications
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, instruments, power accessories, battery, starting and charging systems, infotainment system (basic), climate control electronics
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, bumpers, body sealing, underbody protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on specific implementation), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for engine components, transmission rebuilds, suspension and steering overhaul, brake component replacement, electrical system repairs, body panel repair and replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Scan Quality:
High-quality scan, legible text and diagrams
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Searchability:
Searchable text allows for quick information retrieval
Interactivity:
Hyperlinked table of contents and diagrams for easy navigation
Software Requirements:
Standard PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader)
Engine Type 1:
2.8L V6 SOHC (ABA)
Engine Type 2:
2.6L V6 SOHC (ABC) - Markets outside North America
Engine Type 3:
2.2L 20V Turbocharged I5 (AAN) - Audi S6 (performance variant, sometimes referred to as 100 S)
Horsepower 2.8L V6:
172 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 2.8L V6:
184 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Horsepower 2.2L Turbo I5:
227 hp @ 5500 rpm (S6)
Torque 2.2L Turbo I5:
251 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm (S6)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (Type 01A)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP18)
Drivetrain:
Quattro all-wheel-drive system standard on most variants
Automatic Features:
Sport mode, lock-up torque converter
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1997 models by modern standards, but designed with substantial crumple zones and safety cage.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Quattro:
Quattro all-wheel-drive enhances traction and stability in adverse conditions.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Child Safety:
Rear child seat anchor points (ISOFIX not standard in this era)
Audio System:
Factory premium audio systems often available, with CD players or cassette decks.
Climate Control:
Optional automatic climate control (Climatronic) with electronic sensors.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional traction control system (ASR) often paired with Quattro
Oem Features:
Early generation of integrated electronics, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity from factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years for V6 engines; 90,000 miles or 5 years for 5-cylinder engines (critical component, failure can cause catastrophic engine damage).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-45,000 miles depending on plug type (platinum or iridium recommended).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic (API SG/SH or higher, VW 500 00/502 00)
Coolant Type:
G12 Antifreeze/Coolant (Pink) or compatible silicate-free coolant
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent, fluid type G 052 990
Electrical Gremlins:
Common issues include failing door lock actuators, window regulators, and interior lighting problems due to aging wiring and connectors.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant flanges and pipes can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Radiator fans and control modules can also fail.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to age and mileage.
Cv Boots:
Torn CV joint boots can lead to grease loss and premature joint failure.
Exhaust Manifold Leaks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, particularly on V6 engines, can cause ticking noises and exhaust fumes.
Audi Legacy:
Audi has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly with Quattro and its lightweight construction principles.
C4 Introduction:
The C4 generation of the Audi 100 was introduced in 1990 (for the 1991 model year) and continued until 1994. The 1997 model year refers to the subsequent Audi A6 C4 platform, which evolved from the 100. This manual likely covers the latter part of this platform's life cycle.
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Production Period C4 Platform:
1990-1997 (as Audi 100 and Audi A6)
Safety Accolades:
While specific awards for the 1997 model might be scarce, the C4 platform was generally well-regarded for its robust construction and safety features for its era.
Consumer Reports Ranking:
Often rated as having good reliability for its age, with specific notes on engine and drivetrain durability but potential for electrical issues.
