Vehicle Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan / Performance Sedan
Key Competitors 2005:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Differentiating Features A8:
Audi Space Frame (ASF) aluminum construction, Quattro all-wheel drive, advanced MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment, air suspension.
Differentiating Features S8:
V10 FSI engine, sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, enhanced S8 styling, performance braking system.
Manual Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for Audi A8 and S8 models
Manual Type:
Factory Service & Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Print Capability:
Yes, printable in its entirety or selected pages
Text Searchability:
Fully searchable
Software Compatibility:
Windows and Mac
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRar
Covered Systems:
General Information, Accessories & Equipment, Audio/Visual/Telematics, Brakes, Driveline Axle, Electrical, Lighting, Restraints (Airbags/Seatbelts), Steering, Suspension, Body & Frame (Interior/Exterior), Mechanical Engine, Transmission, Tires & Wheels, HVAC, Wiring Diagrams
Included Procedures:
Maintenance schedules, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, repair and overhaul instructions, component replacement, system adjustments, wiring harness tracing, specifications verification.
Technical Depth:
In-depth factory-level detail covering basic maintenance, routine servicing, complex diagnostics, and full component rebuilds for all covered systems.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for professional printing.
Print Option:
Printable, allowing for paper copy creation.
Binding Recommendation:
Digital, but printable pages can be professionally bound.
Paper Type Recommendation:
High-quality paper recommended for durability if printed.
A8 Engine Variant 1:
4.2L V8 FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection)
A8 Engine Code 1:
AXQ (early), BFM (later)
A8 Hp 1:
330 hp @ 6500 rpm
A8 Torque 1:
317 lb-ft @ 3500-4700 rpm
A8 Engine Variant 2:
6.0L W12 FSI
A8 Hp 2:
450 hp @ 6200 rpm
A8 Torque 2:
428 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
S8 Engine Variant:
5.2L V10 FSI
S8 Torque:
398 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
A8 0 60 Mph Approx:
5.9 seconds (4.2L), 4.9 seconds (W12)
S8 0 60 Mph Approx:
4.9 seconds
Fuel Delivery Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) and Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
A8 Transmission Type:
6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with DSP (Dynamic Shift Program)
A8 Transmission Codes:
09L (2WD), 0BY (Quattro), 0BM (W12 Quattro)
S8 Transmission Type:
6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with DSP
S8 Transmission Codes:
0BM (Quattro)
A8 Optional Transmission:
None for 2005 model year in most markets (standard was Tiptronic)
Transmission Features:
All-wheel drive (Quattro) standard on most A8/S8 models. Tiptronic function allows manual gear selection. Adaptive shift programs adjust to driving style.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not extensively tested by NHTSA for this specific year, but generally excellent due to advanced safety systems.
IIHS Front Overlap Small Overlap:
Not specifically rated by IIHS for this year; D3 generation known for robust safety structure.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control (ASR), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) available.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), front and rear head protection system, active front headrests, seatbelt pretensioners.
Infotainment System Name:
Multi Media Interface (MMI)
Infotainment Features:
Central control dial and buttons, navigation system, radio, CD player, optional Bose premium sound system, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity (often optional).
Driver Assistance Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), parking sensors (front and rear), rearview camera (optional), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Connectivity Options:
Telematics, optional mobile phone preparation with Bluetooth.
Service Intervals Typical
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific intervals, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles for items like spark plugs, serpentine belt, coolant flush.
Engine Oil Specification 4.2L:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, API SN, ACEA A3/B4 (or equivalent, refer to manual for exact OEM spec like VW 502 00 / 505 00)
Engine Oil Specification V10:
SAE 0W-40, API SN, ACEA A3/B4 (or equivalent, refer to manual for exact OEM spec like VW 502 00 / 505 00)
Transmission Fluid Type:
G 055 005 A1 (or equivalent, ATF for 6-speed Tiptronic)
Coolant Type:
G12 Plus (Pink) or G12++ (Violet) extended life coolant (ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Common Issues D3:
Air suspension compressor failure/leaks, ignition coil failure, MMI system glitches, thermostat housing leaks, coolant leaks (valley pan), variable valve timing (VVT) system issues, door lock actuator failure, infotainment screen issues.
Common Issues S8:
Similar to A8 but with added focus on V10 engine specifics, including potential carbon buildup (though less prevalent with FSI), oil consumption, and higher-stress component wear.
Audi Legacy:
Known for quattro all-wheel drive, advanced technology, sophisticated design, and luxury appointments.
A8 Generation D3 Introduction:
Introduced for the 2003 model year (Europe) and 2004 model year (North America), replacing the D2 generation. The 2005 model year marked the first appearance of the S8 performance variant for this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany