Segment:
Executive Car / Luxury Sedan and Wagon
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Volvo 740/760, Saab 9000
Unique Selling Points:
Quattro all-wheel drive (optional on most models), aerodynamic 'Audi Modern' styling, advanced (for the time) aerodynamics, spacious interior, robust build quality.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, reducing reliance on costly dealership services and extending vehicle lifespan.
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North America and Europe, based on typical Audi market distribution)
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific publisher, but typically 500-1000+ pages for a comprehensive service manual of this era.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Print Quality:
Fully Printable (high resolution for clarity)
Binding Type:
Digital Download (PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or equivalent unarchiver)
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system, engine overhaul procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (e.g., K-Jetronic, KE-Jetronic for gasoline), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel tank, emissions control related to fuel delivery.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, heater core, coolant specifications.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, ECU control.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, common electrical faults.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering), brakes (hydraulic system, ABS if equipped), wheel bearings, drive shafts.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch system (manual), torque converter (automatic), transmission fluid specifications and replacement.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, seat adjustments, glass replacement, rust prevention and repair advice (general).
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, evaporative emission control systems, emission testing procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common mechanical and electrical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying faults, interpreting error codes (if applicable to the era's diagnostic capabilities), testing component function.
Technical Data:
Specifications, torque values, clearances, diagnostic data, part identification numbers (often referenced).
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, complex repairs, and troubleshooting for all major vehicle systems. Suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Families:
Inline 4-cylinder (e.g., 2.0L, 2.2L), Inline 5-cylinder (e.g., 2.2L, 2.3L Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged), V6 (e.g., 2.6L, 2.8L) - Note: 5-cylinder engines were most iconic for this generation, especially the 200 model.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 115 hp (2.0L) to 220 hp (200 Turbo Quattro) depending on engine variant and market.
Torque Range:
Approx. 125 lb-ft to 250 lb-ft, depending on engine variant.
Injection Type:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) and KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) fuel injection were common for gasoline engines. Diesel engines (less common in North America) would use indirect injection or direct injection depending on variant.
Configuration:
Front-mounted, transverse (FWD) or longitudinal (Quattro) depending on driveline. Inline and V-configurations.
Common Codes:
e.g., NG (2.3E), RR (2.2 Turbo), KU (2.2 Turbo), AAN (2.2 Turbo 20V - later models but overlap conceptually)
Manual Option:
5-speed manual transmission
Automatic Option:
4-speed automatic transmission (ZF or Audi sourced)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, Audi quattro all-wheel drive available and highly characteristic.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically Dexron-II or equivalent ATF. Check specific vehicle application.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically GL-4 gear oil, viscosity varies with temperature (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90). Check specific vehicle application.
Crash Test Data:
Limited standardized testing from this era compared to modern standards. Focus was on occupant protection through robust structure.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option, especially on higher-trim models like the 200 and Quattro variants.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became available as an option in later production years of the C3 generation, but was not standard across all models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front and rear occupants, often with pre-tensioners on front belts in later models.
Structural Integrity:
Known for its strong, galvanized unibody construction, contributing to durability and corrosion resistance.
Audio System:
Factory installed radio/cassette systems. Optional premium sound systems available.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC systems standard. Optional automatic climate control (climate control) available on higher trims, offering more precise temperature regulation.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most models.
ABS:
As mentioned in safety, ABS was an advanced feature for its time.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic automotive systems of the era. No Bluetooth, USB, or advanced telematics.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 5-cylinder engines: Often around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage. For 4-cylinder or V6, consult manual.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity typically 5W-40 or 10W-40, depending on ambient temperature. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically G11 (blue) or compatible. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corrosion in connectors, failing relays and control units are common issues as these cars age.
Fuel System K Jetronic:
Clogged fuel distributors, faulty warm-up regulators, vacuum leaks are frequent problems with K-Jetronic systems.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to age and mileage.
Climate Control:
Leaking heater cores and failing blower motor resistors are common.
Audi Philosophy:
Audi's reputation for engineering excellence, quattro all-wheel drive, and innovative design, building on the success of the Audi 5000 (North American market name for the 100/200).
C3 Development:
The C3 generation was a significant advancement for Audi, introducing the aerodynamic 'Audi Modern' styling language and refining the quattro system. The 200 was positioned as the more luxurious and powerful variant of the 100.
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing was in Ingolstadt, Germany.
Sales Performance:
The C3 generation was a sales success for Audi globally, establishing its presence in the executive car market.
Audi 200:
The Audi 200 was the more upmarket version, often featuring turbocharged engines, improved interiors, and optional features like ABS, electric seats, and a more sophisticated climate control system.