Welcome to the comprehensive service manual for the 1996 Audi A4, part of the B5 generation. This vehicle represents Audi's significant entry into the compact executive segment, known for its refined design, advanced engineering including the multi-link front suspension, and a range of potent engine options from efficient four-cylinders to smooth V6 powerplants. The A4 established Audi as a key competitor against established European luxury brands, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and sophisticated styling that earned it accolades such as recognition on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists. Whether equipped with front-wheel drive or the lauded quattro all-wheel-drive system, the A4 provides an engaging driving experience.
This manual serves as an authoritative guide for owners, mechanics, and technicians, detailing all aspects of maintaining and repairing the 1996 Audi A4. It covers essential scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, and tune-ups, alongside in-depth troubleshooting guides and repair procedures for the powertrain, chassis, electrical systems, and body and comfort features. You will find detailed instructions for disassembly and reassembly, technical specifications, torque values, and diagnostic procedures necessary for the upkeep of this vehicle. By utilizing the factory-level information contained within, you can ensure the continued reliability, performance, and longevity of your Audi A4.
Generation Name:
First Generation
Generation Years:
1994-2001 (Europe), 1995-2001 (North America)
Segment:
Compact Executive / Premium Sedan and Avant (Wagon)
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Volvo S70/V70, Lexus ES
Platform Significance:
The B5 platform was a significant evolution for Audi, marking a transition to a more modern design language and improved chassis dynamics, including the introduction of the multi-link front suspension.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, factory-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling cost-effective and accurate maintenance of the 1996 Audi A4.
Estimated Page Count:
Highly Comprehensive (specific count not provided, but factory repair manuals are typically extensive, often exceeding 1000 pages across multiple volumes or sections)
Manual Type:
Factory Repair Manual / Service Manual
Digital Format:
PDF / WINRAR
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Fuel Injection and Ignition, Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension, Wheel and Brakes
Electrical:
Electrical Equipment
Body And Comfort:
Body, Heating and AC
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Diagnostics And Repair:
Troubleshooting guides, Component testing, Diagnostic procedures, Repair procedures for all covered systems
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling major vehicle components and systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to advanced engine, transmission, and electrical system diagnostics and repair. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and procedures for complete overhauls.
File Types:
PDF (searchable text), WINRAR (compressed archive)
Quality Description:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and text. Designed for clear printing.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Code Example:
AHL (1.6L), ADR (1.8L), AEB (1.8T)
Available Engines:
1.6L I4 (AHL), 1.8L I4 (ADR), 1.8L Turbo I4 (AEB), 2.4L V6 (APQ), 2.6L V6 (ABC), 2.8L V6 (AAH/ACK)
1.8T (Aeb) Horsepower:
150 PS (148 bhp; 110 kW)
1.8T (Aeb) Torque:
210 Nm (155 lb-ft) @ 1750 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic (or similar) engine management system.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Type:
G12 or G12+ ethylene glycol coolant (typically pink or red) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
G 005 295 (or equivalent API GL-4 rated synthetic gear oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 A1 (or equivalent ATF like Pentosin ATF 1)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Avant (Wagon)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2610 mm (102.8 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1510 mm (59.4 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1500 mm (59.1 in)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 1390 kg (3064 lbs) for 1.6L FWD Sedan
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 1620 kg (3571 lbs) for 2.8L quattro Avant
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by engine and drivetrain, typically around 1900-2000 kg
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not directly rated for 1996 model year under current NHTSA standards. However, the B5 platform was known for its robust structure.
ABS:
Standard on most models, with specific calibration covered in the manual.
Traction Control:
Optional (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation) on some models, especially those with quattro.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front belt tensioners and force limiters.
Audio System:
Factory Audi Chorus or Concert CD/Radio systems, with optional Bose sound system.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional Climatronic automatic climate control system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights, with optional Xenon HID headlights on performance models or as an upgrade.
Keyless Entry:
Optional feature for remote keyless entry.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact interval based on model year and engine).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For non-turbo 4-cylinder engines (e.g., 1.8L ADR): 90,000-100,000 km (56,000-62,000 miles). For V6 engines and 1.8T: check manual, as some had timing chains and others belts with varying intervals. The manual will detail specific requirements.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-40 or 0W-40 (synthetic) is commonly recommended for many B5 engines, but check manual for specific engine requirements (e.g., VW 502 00/505 00).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 - 5.0 liters (4.2 - 5.3 US quarts) depending on engine (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Common Wear Items:
Coil packs (especially on 1.8T), front control arm bushings, mass airflow sensor (MAF), PCV system (crankcase ventilation), window regulators, climate control flaps.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing seals are common leak points on higher mileage B5s.
Timing Belt Failure Risk:
Critical to adhere to timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Brand Focus:
Audi has a long history of engineering excellence, particularly in quattro all-wheel-drive systems, performance engines, and sophisticated interior design.
B5 Introduction:
The A4 (B5) replaced the Audi 80/90 and was Audi's first major success in the compact executive segment in North America, establishing Audi as a strong competitor.
B5 Design Influence:
Designed by Peter Schreyer, the B5 established Audi's modern design language, characterized by clean lines, a prominent grille, and a sleek profile.
Manufacturing Locations:
Ingolstadt, Germany; Brussels, Belgium
Production Years:
1994–2001 (Europe), 1995–2001 (North America)
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver recognized the Audi A4 on its Ten Best lists multiple times during its production run for its handling, refinement, and performance.
European Car Of The Year:
While not a winner in 1996, the A4 platform was a strong contender and contributed to Audi's growing reputation in Europe.
Reliability:
Varies by engine and specific components; known for solid build quality but requires diligent maintenance to address common wear items. The manual is crucial for proper upkeep.
