Vehicle Class:
Compact Executive Car
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Ford Sierra, Opel Vectra
Design Philosophy:
Audi's focus on build quality, aerodynamics, and Quattro all-wheel-drive technology (available on select variants)
Completeness:
The most completed and official full factory service repair manual available.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete Mechanical Engine Service and Repair
Transmission:
Service and Repair for all Transmission Types
Driveline Axle:
Comprehensive Driveline and Axle Service
Brakes:
Full Brake System Diagnostics and Repair
Steering:
Steering System Maintenance and Overhaul
Suspension:
Suspension Component Service and Alignment Procedures
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair
Lights:
Exterior and Interior Lighting System Service
Restraints:
Safety Restraint System (SRS) Information
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Service
Body Frame Interior Exterior:
Body and Frame Repair, Interior and Exterior Trim
Tires Wheels:
Tire and Wheel Specifications and Service
Accessories Equipment:
Accessory and Equipment Installation and Service
Audio Visual Telematics:
Audio, Visual, and Telematics System Servicing
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures and Common Fault Finding
Repair Procedures:
Component Removal, Installation, and Overhaul
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive Electrical Wiring Diagrams
Depth:
Full Factory Level Detail for Repair and Diagnostics
Engine Codes Common:
JN (1.6L), PM (1.8L), DS (1.6L Diesel), DZ (2.0L), KV (2.2L)
Typical Hp Range:
70-136 hp (depending on engine variant)
Typical Torque Range:
120-185 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Induction:
Fuel Injection (Bosch CIS-E, KE-Jetronic) or Carburetor (early 1.6L)
Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder and Inline 5-cylinder (2.2L)
Crash Test Era:
Pre-modern era testing standards, focus on passive safety features of the time.
Available Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims/optional
Standard Passive Safety:
Safety-cell construction, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced side impact beams
Audio Systems:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players, often with premium speaker options.
Early Assistance:
ABS, Quattro AWD (if equipped) were considered advanced technologies for the era.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic antenna and speaker connections for audio systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or annually, as per manual recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000-90,000 km or 5-6 years, crucial for interference engines.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-40, 10W-40) and API/ACEA ratings.
Coolant:
G11 or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 (check specific gearbox type)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension bushings, heater core leaks, ignition components (distributor cap/rotor, plugs/wires).
Fuel System Concerns:
Fuel distributor seals on CIS-E systems, carburetor adjustments.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, faulty relays, and instrument cluster issues can occur with age.