Generation Years:
1994-2003
Engine Codes Covered:
ABZ, ACK, AEJ, AHM, AKG, ALG, APB, ART, ASG, AVP, AXB, AYS, AZF, AZL, BDV, BFL, BFM, BGF, BGH, BGG, BHW, BJR, BSB
Transmission Codes Covered:
01L, 01X, 01Y, 01Z, 0AD, 01A
Market Position:
The Audi A8 (D2) represented Audi's entry into the ultra-luxury sedan segment, competing with established German luxury marques like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. It was known for its advanced technology, quattro all-wheel drive, and understated elegance.
Competitive Analysis:
This generation of A8 offered a strong alternative in the luxury sedan market, differentiating itself with its standard quattro AWD, advanced aluminum space frame construction (ASF), and typically higher levels of standard equipment compared to some competitors. Its focus on engineering and technology positioned it as a sophisticated choice.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Aluminum Space Frame (ASF) construction for reduced weight and increased rigidity, available W12 engine (later in the generation), quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, advanced electronics and safety features.
Coverage Years:
1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Models Covered:
All Audi A8 (D2 platform) variants, including all engine and trim levels.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., Tiptronic) mechanical and electronic control, torque converter, fluid specifications, servicing, and repair.
Chassis:
Suspension (adaptive air suspension, quattro AWD system), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESP), wheel and tire specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, ignition, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows, mirrors, seats, climate control, audio system, navigation.
Body And Frame:
Body shell, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter), transmission repair, suspension component replacement (e.g., control arms, air springs), brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation, wiring diagrams for electrical systems.
Special Procedures:
Engine timing belt/chain replacement (as applicable), adaptive air suspension adjustment and repair, quattro system servicing, advanced diagnostic tool usage, interior and exterior component removal/installation.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.
Engine Options:
2.8L V6 (AAH, ACK, ALG, AMX, APR, AQD, AWN, AXB, BBD), 4.2L V8 (ABH, ABZ, ACK, AKG, APB, ART, AVP, BBD), 6.0L W12 (BFR, BWB - introduced later).
2.8L V6 (Ack) Estimated Output:
200-204 hp, 210-215 lb-ft torque
4.2L V8 (Apb) Estimated Output:
300-310 hp, 317-320 lb-ft torque
6.0L W12 (Bwb) Estimated Output:
420 hp, 444 lb-ft torque
Fuel System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with electronic engine control (ECU).
Engine Management System:
Bosch Motronic ECU (specific version varies by engine and year).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed automatic (e.g., 01L, 01A) with Tiptronic manual shift mode. 6-speed manual was rare/unavailable in most markets for this generation.
Optional Transmission:
6-speed automatic (e.g., 01Y) on some later models or specific engines.
Transmission Features:
Tiptronic (manual shift control), Quattro all-wheel drive integrated with transmission management.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
G 052 162 A1 or equivalent ATF (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF LT 71141). Always consult specific vehicle VIN for precise specification.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 114.1 inches (2900 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 199.9 inches (5078 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 57.2 inches (1453 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3800-4400 lbs (1724-2000 kg) depending on engine and configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 5500-6000 lbs (2500-2700 kg).
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 16.7 cu ft (473 liters)
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for this era are not readily available in a standardized format as crash testing protocols have evolved significantly. However, it was engineered to high safety standards for its time.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP/ASR), Traction Control System (ASR), quattro all-wheel drive.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags (front and rear optional), seatbelt pretensioners, advanced crumple zones, side-impact protection beams, optional side curtain airbags.
Infotainment System:
Audi Navigation System (RNS), CD player, Bose premium sound system (optional), analog climate controls with digital displays.
Driver Assistance Features:
Park distance control (parking sensors), cruise control, rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon headlights with auto-leveling (optional).
Connectivity Features:
OnStar system (in certain markets/years), cellular phone integration (often via cradle).
Comfort Features:
Power adjustable seats with memory, heated seats (front and rear optional), dual-zone automatic climate control, power moonroof, power rear sunshade.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on model year and oil specification used. Flexible service systems were introduced.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Varies by engine: V6 engines around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for copper plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs. V8 and W12 engines may have similar or slightly extended intervals. Always verify with the manual.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
For models with timing belts (some earlier V6/V8 configurations), intervals are typically around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). Later models, especially V8 and W12, utilize timing chains which are generally designed for the life of the engine but may require tensioner/guide checks.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A3/B3/B4. Viscosity: 5W-40 or 5W-30 for most models. 0W-40 might be specified for certain engines or cold climates. Always check the Owner's Manual or manual for specific requirements based on VIN.
Coolant Spec:
G 12 (pink) or G 12+ (pink/purple) ethylene glycol-based coolant. Always use a quality coolant with the correct protection properties.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
G 002 000 (Green hydraulic fluid) or Pentosin CHF 11S. Consult manual for specific requirement.
Common Problems And Considerations:
Adaptive air suspension (strut leaks, compressor failure), ignition coil failures (especially older 4.2L V8s), mass air flow (MAF) sensor issues, catalytic converter failures, climate control blower motor issues, front suspension component wear (control arms, ball joints), ABS/ESP sensor failures, door lock actuator issues.
Brand Heritage:
Audi, a German manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century, is known for its engineering prowess, innovation in quattro all-wheel drive technology, and its premium automotive offerings.
Model Evolution D2:
The D2 generation A8, introduced in late 1994 for the 1995 model year, was a significant step for Audi. It was the first A8 to feature the revolutionary Aluminum Space Frame (ASF) construction, significantly reducing weight and improving chassis rigidity. It also introduced advanced features like adaptive air suspension and the Tiptronic transmission.
Production Years:
1994-2002 (for model years 1995-2003)
Production Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Car And Driver 5Best Awards:
The Audi A8 4.2 quattro was recognized by Car and Driver on its "10Best" list in 1997 for its combination of performance, luxury, and quattro technology.
Internal Audi Quality Ratings:
Audi consistently aimed for high build quality and refinement, and the A8 (D2) was a flagship model reflecting these aspirations. Specific internal ratings are not publicly available but it was considered a premium product.
Certifications:
European NCAP and US IIHS crash safety ratings were pursued by Audi for vehicles of this era, though specific published results for the D2 A8 in early protocols might be limited compared to modern standards.
