🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

90

Model Variant:

Type 85 (B2)

Years Covered:

1988-1992

Chassis Code:

Type 85

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium compact executive sedan, known for its sporty handling and advanced (for its time) Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Target Audience:

Discerning drivers seeking performance, luxury, and all-weather capability in a European sedan.

Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Volvo 240/740, Saab 900

Key Differentiators:

Standard Quattro AWD, sophisticated European styling, refined interior, strong inline-five engine options.

Design:

Clean, angular European design characteristic of Audi's late 1980s styling, aerodynamic profile.

Performance Orientation:

Focus on driver engagement with responsive handling and powerful engine options.

Durability:

Known for robust build quality and longevity, especially the Quattro drivetrain.

Innovation:

Early adoption of electronic fuel injection and anti-lock braking systems.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, cooling, lubrication, exhaust

Transmission Systems:

Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch, drivetrain components

Chassis Systems:

Suspension, steering, brakes (including ABS where applicable), wheels, tires

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, onboard diagnostics

Body And Interior:

Body panel repair, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC system, seats

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul procedures, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belts/chains, seals, gaskets

Fuel And Ignition:

Detailed diagnostics and repair for CIS-E/KE-Jetronic fuel injection systems, ignition timing, spark plugs, coils, sensors

Drivetrain:

Service and repair for Quattro all-wheel drive systems, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints

Brakes And Suspension:

Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, ABS diagnostics (if equipped), suspension geometry, shock absorbers, bushings

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting charts for all electrical circuits, relay and fuse identification

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, timing belt replacement, spark plugs

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex faults, fault code interpretation (OBD I)

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment

Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting trees for drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures

Depth Of Coverage:

Complete vehicle repair and overhaul, from basic maintenance to major component rebuilding

Detail Level:

Highly detailed with technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and alignment data

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Abundant, clear diagrams, schematics, and step-by-step illustrations

Diagnostic Tools:

Coverage for older OBD I diagnostic systems and associated tools

Performance Tuning:

May include limited information on performance adjustments or modifications relevant to the era

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable, allowing for quick keyword lookup

Digital Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual

Image Clarity:

Sharp images and legible text for diagrams and instructions

Digital Binding:

N/A (digital file)

Digital Paper Simulation:

Simulates high-quality paper output when printed

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

NG (2.3E), NF (2.0E), JT (2.2 Turbo - limited availability in this period for 90 model), and possibly others

Engine Type:

Inline 5-cylinder (I5)

Displacement 2 3L:

2309 cc (141 cu in)

Displacement 2 0L:

1996 cc (122 cu in)

Horsepower 2 3L:

Approx. 130-135 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm

Torque 2 3L:

Approx. 137 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm

Horsepower 2 0L:

Approx. 110-115 hp @ 5500-5700 rpm

Torque 2 0L:

Approx. 118-120 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch CIS-E/KE-Jetronic mechanical/electronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with distributor and single ignition coil

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF)

AWD System:

Standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system with viscous coupling (manual trans) or Torsen differential (later automatics)

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, 75W-90 (API GL-4)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF (Dexron II or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4.5 meters (177.2 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1.7 meters (66.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1.4 meters (55.1 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2.6 meters (102.4 inches)

Wheelbase Quattro:

Typically same as FWD, but Quattro variants are common.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112mm

Tire Sizes Standard:

e.g., 195/60R15, 205/55R15 (depending on trim and wheels)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3200 lbs (1315-1450 kg), varies with engine and drivetrain

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by specific model and configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings Era:

Safety standards and testing were evolving; specific ratings for this era are less standardized than modern tests. However, Audis of this period were generally well-regarded for their robust construction.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, standard on some higher trims.

AWD:

Quattro all-wheel-drive provides enhanced traction and stability in various road conditions.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag was an option, becoming more common towards the end of the production run.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, with front seatbelt pretensioners.

Body Construction:

Unitized body construction with safety crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with premium speaker options. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control system.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Trip Computer:

Some models may feature a basic trip computer.

Original Connectivity:

Limited to basic radio and speaker connectivity. No modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial for inline-five engines due to interference design.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change (2.3L engine)

Coolant Type:

G11 (blue) or G12 (pink) ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (check specific model)

Cis Fuel System:

CIS injection can be finicky; issues with fuel pressure regulator, airflow meter, and cold start valve are common.

Electronics:

Aging wiring harnesses, failure of interior electronics (e.g., power windows, dashboard lights) due to degraded insulation or components.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear on control arm bushings, subframe mounts, and strut mounts leading to steering wander and clunks.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, aging hoses, failing water pump, and thermostat issues.

Oil Leaks:

Common oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Audi Heritage:

Audi, part of the Volkswagen Group, has a long history of engineering innovation and automotive excellence dating back to the early 20th century.

B2 Platform:

The Audi 90 (Type 85) is an evolution of the Audi 80 (B2 platform), introduced as a more upscale and sportier variant, often distinguished by its four round headlights and improved interior appointments.

Facelift:

The B2 platform received a significant facelift in 1984 (for model year 1985), leading to the distinct styling of the Audi 90. The 1988-1992 models represent the later iterations of this generation.

Engine Development:

The inline-five cylinder engine, introduced in the Audi 100, became a hallmark of Audi's performance offerings and was adapted for the Audi 90, providing a smooth and powerful experience.

Production Period:

The B2 platform was produced from 1978 to 1986. The Audi 90 designation was used for the more premium models within this generation from 1984 onwards, with the specific 1988-1992 years aligning with the latter part of this platform's life cycle and potentially overlapping with early B3 generation models depending on market.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Ingolstadt)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Era Awards:

While specific awards for the 1988-1992 Audi 90 might not be widely publicized as individual accolades, Audi as a brand was frequently recognized for its engineering, design, and the innovative Quattro system during this period.

Quattro Recognition:

The Quattro system itself received significant acclaim for revolutionizing rally racing and improving road-holding capabilities in passenger cars.

Consumer Reports Era:

Consumer Reports and similar publications from the era often highlighted Audi's refined interiors, solid build, and good handling, though sometimes noted higher maintenance costs compared to domestic brands.

Automotive Engineering:

The Audi 90 was a testament to European automotive engineering standards of the late 1980s, featuring advanced (for its time) technology and a focus on driver dynamics.