Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
Understated luxury, advanced German engineering, quattro all-wheel drive.
Technology Emphasis:
Early adopter of aluminum spaceframe chassis (Audi Space Frame - ASF), advanced electronics.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Bodywork, Interior, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (Digital format implies comprehensive data)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software / Digital Access
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage including disassembly, inspection, assembly, and torque specifications for engine components.
Engine Electrical:
Diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing for engine management systems.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including manual and automatic transmission servicing, differential maintenance, and driveshaft repair.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems, power steering system, alignment specifications, and component replacement.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper servicing, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, component testing, and repair of heating and air conditioning systems.
Bodywork Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seat adjustment, and basic body repair procedures.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and general tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common problems and symptoms.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major component overhauls and replacements.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) information, sensor testing, and ECU (Engine Control Unit) related diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repairs. Licensed OE (Original Equipment) materials ensure accuracy and detail.
Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (via web browser)
Digital Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text and diagrams.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Code:
APU (for 2.8L V6), ACK (for 2.8L V6 - later), AHA (for 4.2L V8), AVP (for 4.2L V8 - later)
Engine Type:
V6 and V8 configurations
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2771 cc) for V6; 4.2 Liters (4172 cc) for V8
Horsepower V6:
190 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque V6:
206 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower V8:
300 hp @ 6200 rpm (approx.)
Torque V8:
295 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug for V8.
Transmission Type V6:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (e.g., 01F)
Transmission Type V8:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (e.g., 01L)
Optional Transmission:
Not typically offered with manual transmission in North America for this generation.
Drivetrain Option:
Standard quattro permanent all-wheel drive
Tiptronic Functionality:
Allows manual selection of gears via the gear selector.
Length:
approx. 196.3 inches (5000 mm)
Width:
approx. 71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
approx. 56.4 inches (1433 mm)
Wheelbase:
approx. 117.1 inches (2975 mm)
Curb Weight V6:
approx. 3600-3800 lbs (1633-1724 kg)
Curb Weight V8:
approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1997 model year by NHTSA in modern standards, but known for robust construction.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) not standard on all 1997 models, but availability increased in later D2 years.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems available, often with CD player and cassette deck. Bose sound systems were a common option.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available, typically with a trunk-mounted CD-ROM drive.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Early integrated mobile phone options were sometimes available.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For V6 engines (2.8L), typically every 70,000-105,000 miles or 5-7 years. V8 engines have a timing chain, which generally requires less frequent maintenance but may need tensioner checks.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
G12 (or equivalent purple coolant) silicate-free coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
G 052 162 (for automatic transmissions, typically ATF with specific Audi specification).
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failure, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil cooler seals), suspension component wear (control arms, tie rods), ABS sensor failures, climate control flap actuator issues, occasional transmission control module (TCM) problems.
Audi Heritage:
Audi, a German automotive manufacturer, has a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for engineering innovation and motorsport success.
A8 Introduction:
The Audi A8 (D2) was introduced in 1994 (as a 1995 model in some markets) as the successor to the Audi V8, representing Audi's flagship luxury sedan.
D2 Generation:
The D2 generation, which includes the 1997 model year, was a significant step forward for Audi in the luxury segment, heavily featuring the Audi Space Frame (ASF) aluminum construction for reduced weight and improved rigidity.
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
