Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Positioning:
Audi's flagship luxury sedan, known for advanced technology, quattro all-wheel drive, and refined comfort.
Primary Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ.
Platform Highlight:
D2 platform, known for its advanced aluminum space frame (ASF) construction on some models, offering a lightweight yet rigid chassis.
Powertrain Availability:
Wide range of V8 and W12 engines, along with powerful performance-oriented S8 variants.
Drivetrain Highlight:
Standard quattro permanent all-wheel drive system on most models, enhancing traction and handling.
Suspension Technology:
Available adaptive air suspension (Torsen differential on quattro) for adjustable ride height and damping.
Manual Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for all models and sub-variants within the specified years.
Manual Classification:
Full Factory Service Repair Manual
Documentation Language:
English
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Print Capability:
Yes (Printable in entirety or select pages)
Text Searchability:
Fully Searchable
Operating System Compatibility:
Windows and Mac
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRar
Mechanical Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Driveline Axle, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, HVAC, Tires & Wheels, Mechanical Engine Components.
Electrical Systems:
Complete Electrical System diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Lights, Audio/Visual/Telematics Systems.
Bodywork And Interior:
Body & Frame - Interior & Exterior, Accessories & Equipment, Restraints Systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspection procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor mechanical, electrical, and body components.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code explanations, diagnostic flowcharts for various systems.
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed instructions for component disassembly, removal, reassembly, and installation.
Diagnostic Depth:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing, sensor analysis, and ECU fault finding.
Rebuild Depth:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical assemblies.
Specification Detail:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, tolerances, and alignment data for all components.
A8 Base Engine 1994-1996:
4.2L V8 (ABH engine code)
A8 Engine 1997-2002:
4.2L V8 (AKG engine code)
A8 Optional Engine 2001-2002:
3.7L V8 (AQG engine code)
A8 W12 Engine:
6.0L W12 (BBD engine code)
S8 Engine:
4.2L V8 Twin-Turbocharged (213 kW / 286 hp; 400 Nm / 295 lb-ft torque - initial models), later S8 with 4.2L V8 Naturally Aspirated (340 hp)
Typical Horsepower Range:
260 hp to 360 hp (depending on engine and year).
Typical Torque Range:
350 Nm to 480 Nm (depending on engine and year).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended).
A8 Standard Transmission:
5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.
A8 Optional Transmission:
6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission (introduced later in the model run).
Tiptronic Functionality:
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 A1/A2 or equivalent (consult manual for exact fill)
Wheelbase A8 Std:
Approx. 2,940 mm (115.7 in)
Wheelbase A8L:
Approx. 3,090 mm (121.7 in)
Overall Length A8 Std:
Approx. 5,034 mm (198.2 in)
Overall Length A8L:
Approx. 5,178 mm (203.9 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1,700 kg - 2,100 kg (3,748 lbs - 4,630 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
NHTSA Rating Estimation:
Likely received 4-star or 5-star ratings for front impact based on contemporary standards, but specific records for this era are scarce.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Traction Control System (ASR) on most models.
Quattro AWD:
Standard quattro permanent all-wheel drive for enhanced stability and control.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side airbags and curtain airbags available on later models or as options.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters.
Restraint System:
Comprehensive occupant restraint system including advanced airbag deployment logic.
Audi Navigation System:
Optional Audi Navigation System with CD-ROM based maps.
Audio Systems:
Various optional Bose sound systems available, offering enhanced audio quality.
Parking Assist:
Optional parking sensors (Parktronic).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Telematics:
Early telematics systems may be present, though functionality may be limited due to the age of the technology.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Check owner's manual or service schedule.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For engines with timing belts, replacement typically recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 145,000 km). For chain-driven engines, it's a lifetime component but requires regular inspection.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for the automatic transmission.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades like 0W-40 or 5W-40, and API/ACEA ratings (e.g., VW 502 00 / 505 00).
Coolant Specification:
G12, G12+, or G12++ Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based with Silicates).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common issues can include window regulators, central locking systems, and various sensors due to age and complexity of the wiring harness.
Air Suspension Failures:
Adaptive air suspension can develop leaks in bags or compressor failures over time, often requiring specialized repair or replacement.
Ignition Coil Failures:
Coil-on-plug ignition systems can experience premature failure of ignition coils, leading to misfires.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Wheel speed sensors for the ABS and ESP systems can fail, triggering warning lights and disabling these functions.
Camshaft Timing Issues:
On some engines, camshaft timing adjusters or tensioners can wear, affecting engine performance and timing. This manual will detail correct procedures for checking and replacing.
Audi Legacy:
Audi's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering quattro technology.
D2 Platform Introduction:
The D2 A8 generation debuted in 1994, representing a significant leap in Audi's luxury segment offering.
Facelift And Updates:
Underwent a significant facelift in 1999 (model year 2000), introducing updated styling, improved engines, and enhanced technology.
A8L Introduction:
The long-wheelbase A8L variant was introduced to compete directly with extended-wheelbase versions of its rivals.
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany.
Car And Driver 5 Best Cars:
The Audi A8 was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, particularly for its engineering and luxury.
European Car Of The Year Nominee:
While not winning outright, the Audi A8 was a strong contender and highly regarded within its class during its market presence.
