Positioning:
The Audi A3 and S3 are positioned as premium compact cars, offering a blend of performance, technology, and refined styling within the luxury segment. They compete with vehicles like the BMW 1 Series/2 Series, Mercedes-Benz A-Class/CLA, and Volkswagen Golf GTI/R.
Key Strengths:
Known for Quattro all-wheel drive (standard on S3, optional on A3), high-quality interior materials, sophisticated technology integration, and a sporty driving dynamic, particularly in the S3 variant.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level information for maintenance and repair, empowering owners and independent mechanics to service these sophisticated vehicles accurately and efficiently, reducing reliance on expensive dealerships.
Covered Generations:
Primarily covers the 8V generation (2013-2020) and potentially early models of the 8Y generation (2020 onwards).
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several thousand pages, typical for factory service manuals.
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (implied by description; factory manuals often multilingual)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and S tronic/DSG), drivetrain.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic and electronic components), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Body control modules, comfort electronics, infotainment system, lighting, driver assistance systems, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, body repairs, structural information.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics.
Repair And Rebuild:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for all major components and systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and material specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Code Example:
2.0 TFSI (e.g., EA888 variants like DLRA, CZPB)
Displacement:
1984 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 180 hp to 220 hp, depending on the specific A3 variant and model year.
Torque Range:
Approximately 250 Nm to 350 Nm, depending on the specific A3 variant and model year.
Engine Code Example:
2.0 TFSI (e.g., EA888 Gen 3 variants like CJXA, DAZA)
Displacement:
1984 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 290 hp to 310 hp.
Torque:
Approximately 380 Nm to 400 Nm.
Injection Type:
Direct Injection (TFSI - Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection).
Fuel Grade Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended).
Timing Belt Chain:
Timing Chain (EA888 engines).
A3 Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual or 6/7-speed S tronic (dual-clutch automatic).
S3 Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual or 6/7-speed S tronic (dual-clutch automatic).
S Tronic Operation:
Dual-clutch system for rapid gear changes, often with paddle shifters.
S Tronic Fluid Type:
Specific dual-clutch transmission fluid (e.g., G 052 529 or equivalent).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., G 052 171, G 052 798, or equivalent).
Wheelbase Approx:
2630 mm (103.5 in)
Length Approx:
4300-4400 mm (169.3-173.2 in)
Width Approx:
1785 mm (70.3 in)
Height Approx:
1400-1420 mm (55.1-55.9 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1400 kg to 1600 kg, varying by engine, drivetrain, and options.
NHTSA Rating Example:
Typically achieves 5-star ratings in various crash tests for overall safety.
IIHS Rating Example:
Often receives 'Good' ratings in crashworthiness tests and 'Top Safety Pick' designations.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Audi Pre Sense front, Lane Assist, Side Assist, Parking Assist, Dynamic Steering.
Airbags:
Front, side, curtain, and knee airbags.
Mmi System:
Multi Media Interface (MMI) system with features like navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto (depending on trim and options).
Virtual Cockpit:
Optional Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, offering customizable displays.
Adas Suite:
Comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) available, including adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function, traffic jam assist, active lane assist, and emergency assist.
Audi Connect:
Audi Connect services for online navigation, traffic information, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities.
Service Intervals Engine Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, or based on Audi's Flexible Service Schedule (using oil quality specifications).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN/SP, ACEA C3, VW 504 00 / 507 00 (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional LL III 5W-30 or equivalent).
Coolant Specification:
G 13 coolant (pink, propylene glycol-based, e.g., Pentofrost SF).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Class 6 (e.g., Pentosin Super DOT 4).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles, but consult manual for specific engine variant.
Common Issues Potential:
PCV valve failures, oil consumption issues (particularly in earlier EA888 Gen 3 engines), water pump leaks, thermostat housing leaks, ignition coil failures, S tronic clutch pack wear.
Filter Part Numbers Example
Oil Filter A3 2.0Tfsi:
06L115403Q or equivalent.
Cabin Air Filter A3:
8V0819439A or equivalent.
Brand Focus:
Audi, part of the Volkswagen Group, is known for its 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Progress through Technology) philosophy, emphasizing advanced engineering and premium design.
A3 Generation 8V:
The 8V generation (2013-2020) was a significant redesign, introducing the MQB modular platform, offering a wider range of body styles (3-door, 5-door Sportback, Sedan, Cabriolet), and advanced technologies like Audi Virtual Cockpit.
S3 Performance Evolution:
The S3 variant consistently represents the sportier, higher-performance iteration of the A3, featuring more powerful engines, sport-tuned suspension, standard Quattro all-wheel drive, and distinct styling cues.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, Germany, and also in Győr, Hungary.
Segment Awards:
The Audi A3 has frequently been recognized in its segment for design, interior quality, and technology, often appearing on '10 Best' lists from automotive publications.
Performance Accolades S3:
The S3 variant is often praised for its blend of everyday usability and potent performance, earning accolades for its driving dynamics and engine power.
Safety Certifications:
Consistent high safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS across its production run.
