Segment:
Mid-size luxury sedan/wagon, competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Lexus GS.
Key Strengths:
Renowned for quattro all-wheel-drive system, solid build quality, sophisticated design, and comfortable ride.
Unique Selling Points:
Standard quattro AWD on many variants, high-quality interior materials, advanced safety features for its era, and a comfortable driving experience.
Durability:
Known for robust construction and durable powertrains, making them desirable for long-term ownership with proper maintenance.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Diagnostics, Maintenance
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Searchability:
Searchable PDF text, allowing quick access to specific information.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, Fuel injection, Ignition, Cooling, Lubrication, Exhaust, Emission controls
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive, Quattro all-wheel drive system, Clutch, Manual and Automatic transmissions
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, Shock absorbers, Struts, Bushings, Steering rack, Power steering system
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake fluid service, Parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Alternator, Starter motor, Lighting system, Fuses, Relays, Wiring diagrams, ECUs, Sensors
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, Air filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Coolant flush, Brake fluid flush, Belt inspection and replacement, Tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper overhaul, Headlight/Taillight replacement, Starter/Alternator replacement, Fuel pump replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common problems, Fault code reading (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on specific model year variation within C4), Sensor testing, Component testing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults, component testing procedures (e.g., starter, alternator, sensors, ECUs).
Bodywork Procedures:
Panel removal and installation (doors, fenders, hood, trunk), hinge adjustment, bumper repair, glass replacement, weatherstripping, interior trim panel removal.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of all major vehicle systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Covers engine disassembly, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, crankshaft), cylinder head overhauls, and reassembly with torque specifications.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for manual and automatic transmission disassembly, component identification, repair of internal wear, torque converter replacement, and reassembly.
Chassis Diagnostics:
Includes procedures for checking and replacing suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and diagnosing steering system issues.
Engine Variants:
2.8L V6 (AAH/ACK), 2.6L I5 (ABC - less common in this year), 2.3L I5 (NG - older variant potentially still present in early 96 models, but V6 is dominant)
2.8L V6 (Aah):
Approx. 172-190 hp, 184-200 lb-ft torque (depending on specific tuning)
2.8L V6 (Ack):
Later iteration, potentially slightly higher power output (around 190-200 hp)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
G12 or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (specific Audi coolant recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 or SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (refer to manual for exact spec)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 - 6.5 liters (5.8 - 6.9 US quarts) for V6, 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) for I5
2.3L I5 (Ng - If Present):
Approx. 134 hp, 145 lb-ft torque
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual Transmission (for some markets/trims)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Tiptronic available on later C4 models, but less common in '96)
AWD System:
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive (standard on many models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 A2 or equivalent ATF (e.g., Dexron III compatible, consult manual for exact specification)
Audio System:
Factory cassette player or CD player, often with premium sound system options (e.g., Bose).
Display:
Digital climate control display, basic trip computer display.
Assistance Features:
Cruise control, Electric sunroof, Heated seats (optional), Climate control
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio connectivity. External CD changer ports may be present.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, with synthetic oil.
Timing Belt Interval:
Every 90,000 - 120,000 km (56,000 - 75,000 miles) for 2.8 V6 (Critical to replace, failure can cause catastrophic engine damage). Exact interval should be verified in manual.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
G 002 000 or equivalent hydraulic fluid (often Pentosin CHF 11S or similar)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 - 9.0 liters (8.5 - 9.5 US quarts)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (Viscosity grade will depend on climate, often 75W-90 or 80W-90. Consult manual.)
Common Problems:
Water pump leaks (often driven by timing belt), coolant flange leaks, ABS sensor failures, power window regulators, ignition coil issues, CV joint wear (on AWD models), door seal degradation.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter HU 719/6x, Mahle OX 35D, Bosch 0 986 452 037 (Verify with specific engine and chassis)
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C 35138/1, Bosch 1 457 433 707 (Verify with specific engine)
