🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

A4

Model Variants:

S4, RS4, Avant, Allroad

Chassis Codes:

8D, 8D2, 8D5

Generation Name:

B5

Production Years:

1995-2002

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Audi A4 B5 generation established Audi's presence in the premium compact executive car segment, competing directly with models like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Its emphasis on sophisticated design, quattro all-wheel drive, and refined interiors positioned it as a strong contender for discerning buyers.

Target Audience:

Owners of Audi A4, S4, and RS4 models from 1995-2002 seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as independent repair shops.

Competitive Analysis:

During its production run, the A4 B5 was lauded for its chassis dynamics, particularly with the quattro system, and its build quality. The S4 and RS4 variants offered significantly increased performance, directly challenging performance-oriented variants from BMW (M3) and Mercedes-Benz (AMG models).

Key Features:

Torsen center differential (quattro), advanced multi-link front suspension, available turbocharged engines, premium interior materials, and a focus on safety.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Audi A4 (1995-2002), S4 (B5), RS4 (B5), Avant (all variants), Allroad Quattro (B5 generation variants)

Page Count:

9659

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Printability:

Yes

Search Ability:

Fully Searchable

Compatibility:

Any Windows and Mac operating systems

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRAR

Manual Completeness:

Official Factory Service Repair Manual, ensuring maximum accuracy and comprehensiveness for all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhauls, component specifications, diagnostic procedures, and repair methods for naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder (1.6L, 1.8L, 1.8T) and V6 (2.4L, 2.6L, 2.8L) engines, including the potent 2.7 Bi-T engine in the RS4 B5.

Transmission:

Detailed information on manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch, torque converter, gear sets, control modules, and shift mechanisms.

Driveline Axle:

In-depth coverage of front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and axle shafts, including Quattro all-wheel-drive system components.

Brakes:

Complete brake system diagnostics and repair, including ABS, EBD, brake discs, pads, calipers, hydraulic lines, and master cylinder.

Electrical System:

Extensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, and body control modules.

Lights:

Service and repair procedures for all exterior and interior lighting systems, including headlights, taillights, and interior illumination.

Restraints:

Detailed information on the airbag system (SRS), seatbelts, and related sensors and control modules.

Steering:

Service and repair of the power steering system, steering column, and steering rack.

Suspension:

Comprehensive diagnostics and repair of the front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and bushings.

Body Frame Interior Exterior:

Coverage of body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, weather stripping, and body repairs.

HVAC:

Detailed procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, component replacement, and diagnostics.

Audio Visual Telematics:

Information related to the factory audio system, navigation (if equipped), and other telematics components.

Accessories Equipment:

Details on factory-installed accessories and optional equipment.

Tires Wheels:

Specifications for tire sizes, wheel fitment, and related components.

Body And Frame:

Detailed procedures for bodywork repair, panel alignment, corrosion protection, and replacement of exterior trim and glass.

Fuel System:

Diagnosis and repair of fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure regulators, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) systems.

Exhaust System:

Information on exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and oxygen sensors.

Routine Maintenance:

Step-by-step instructions for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, and brake fluid flushes.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common mechanical and electrical issues.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated procedures for the disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems.

Installation Procedures:

Instructions for installing replacement parts and components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Diagnostic Codes:

The manual will contain information on On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) codes and their meanings, as well as manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for troubleshooting.

Engine Diagnostics:

Detailed steps for checking engine compression, fuel pressure, ignition timing, and troubleshooting performance issues.

Transmission Repair:

Rebuilding procedures for manual gearboxes, and overhaul instructions for automatic transmissions including valve body diagnostics.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.

Air Conditioning Service:

Safe handling of refrigerants, leak detection, system evacuation and recharge, and component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator).

Engine Mounting Replacement:

Procedures for replacing engine and transmission mounts to reduce vibration.

Headlight Aiming:

Instructions on adjusting headlight aim for optimal visibility and compliance with regulations.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced diagnostics, troubleshooting, and complete rebuild procedures for all factory-specified components.

Diagnostic Tools:

While not a dedicated diagnostic tool itself, the manual will reference the types of specialized tools and diagnostic equipment required for specific procedures, such as V.A.G. 1551/1552 diagnostic testers or equivalent.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, essential for correct assembly and preventing damage.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specifications for critical engine and driveline component clearances and tolerances.

Special Tools:

Lists and illustrations of proprietary Audi tools required for specific repair procedures (e.g., camshaft locking tools, bearing pullers).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for professional printing or on-screen viewing.

Binding Type:

Digital (N/A for physical binding, but supports printing to binder)

Paper Type:

Digital (N/A for physical paper type, but ideal for standard A4/Letter printing)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

1.6L (ADP, AHL, ARM), 1.8L (ADR, AEB, APU, ARK, AWT, AVV), 1.8L Turbo (AEB, APU, ARK, AWT), 2.4L (AGA, ALF, AML, APS, ARJ), 2.6L (ABC), 2.7L Biturbo (APU), 2.8L (ACK, AHL, AMX, APR, AQD, ATX, ATY, BBG), 2.8L 30V (ACK, AML, AMX, APR, AQD, ATX, ATY), 2.7L Biturbo (AZA), 4.2L V8 (BBD - RS4 B5)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 100 hp (1.6L) to 380 hp (RS4 B5 2.7 Bi-T)

Torque Range:

Approximately 140 Nm (1.6L) to 440 Nm (RS4 B5 2.7 Bi-T)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for naturally aspirated engines, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with turbocharging for performance variants.

Common Engine Codes:

1.8T: AEB, APU, ARK, AWT; 2.8 V6 30V: ACK, AML, AMX, APR, AQD; RS4 B5: AZA (2.7 Bi-T)

Engine Design:

Inline-4 (transverse), V6 (transverse). The 1.8T featured a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder head. The V6 engines were typically aluminum alloy construction.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (for most models), 6-speed Manual Transmission (on some performance variants like RS4 B5)

Optional Transmission Type:

Tiptronic Automatic Transmission (e.g., 01V 5-speed automatic)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) or quattro permanent all-wheel drive system with Torsen center differential.

Common Transmission Codes:

Manual: GGU, FHA, FHB, FHA; Automatic: 01V, 01N

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions:

Varies by body style (Sedan, Avant). Overall length approximately 4517-4578 mm, width approximately 1733-1762 mm, height approximately 1408-1450 mm (excluding Allroad).

Cargo Volume:

Avant models offer significantly more cargo space than sedan variants, typically around 440-1500 liters with rear seats folded.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1300 kg to 1700 kg depending on engine, drivetrain, and body style.

Towing Capacity:

If equipped with a factory tow hitch, capacities will be specified. Generally around 1500 kg for braked trailers, depending on engine and configuration. The manual will provide definitive figures.

Front Axle Load:

Specified in the manual for various configurations, crucial for servicing suspension and brake components.

Rear Axle Load:

Specified in the manual for various configurations.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Euro NCAP ratings for the B5 generation generally showed good performance for its era, with varying results across different model years and testing methodologies. The manual would detail specific crashworthiness aspects.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), optional Traction Control System (ASR), optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP - introduced later in the generation).

Cruise Control:

Standard on many models, with system operation and basic troubleshooting covered.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags (optional), front and rear crumple zones, reinforced safety cage construction, pre-tensioning seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Factory Audi Chorus, Concert, and Symphony radio systems. Optional CD changers and navigation systems were available. The manual covers basic operation and troubleshooting of these systems.

Speaker Systems:

Details on factory speaker configurations and replacement procedures for base and optional premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).

User Interface:

Descriptions of button layouts, menu navigation, and basic operation of the infotainment systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Features available at the time included cruise control, and parking sensors on later models. Advanced driver-assistance systems common today were not prevalent in this generation.

Connectivity Features:

OnStar (in North America for some models), telephone preparation kits, and CD changer integration were typical connectivity features of this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. The manual will specify exact intervals and recommended oil specifications for each engine variant.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for 1.8T and V6 engines. Interval typically around 60,000-100,000 miles. The manual will detail the specific interval and associated components (tensioners, idlers, water pump) for each engine.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by spark plug type (e.g., platinum, iridium). Typically 30,000-60,000 miles. The manual will list exact part numbers and recommended intervals.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 recommended for most engines. Specific viscosities may vary by temperature and engine variant. The manual will provide definitive specifications.

Coolant:

G12 or G12+ ethylene glycol-based coolant (pink/purple color) mixed with distilled water. The manual will specify exact concentrations and approved brands.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 low-viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus brake fluid. The manual will detail the correct specification and replacement intervals.

Transmission Fluid:

Manual transmission fluid (e.g., G 052 171 A1 for 5-speed, G 055 726 A2 for 6-speed). Automatic transmission fluid (e.g., G 055 025 A2). The manual will specify precise fluid types and capacities for all variants.

Power Steering Fluid:

G 002 000 hydraulic fluid or equivalent. The manual will detail the specific fluid and procedure for flushing the system.

Differential Fluid:

Gear oil for front and rear differentials (e.g., G 052 145 A1/A2). The manual will specify the correct API GL-5 grade and viscosity.

Transfer Case Fluid:

For quattro models, specific transfer case fluid requirements will be detailed, often a specialized synthetic gear oil.

Known Issues:

Common issues include ignition coil failure (especially on 1.8T), vacuum leaks, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, camshaft adjuster solenoids, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), ABS sensor failures, suspension component wear (control arm bushings, tie rods), and timing belt tensioner issues. The manual will provide troubleshooting and repair procedures for these common faults.

Cv Joint Boots:

A common wear item, particularly on quattro models. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Climate Control Actuators:

Failure of HVAC blend door actuators can lead to improper temperature control. The manual will provide access and replacement steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Audi, part of the Volkswagen Group, has a long history of engineering innovation, particularly in the areas of quattro all-wheel drive and advanced engine technology. The A4 line succeeded the Audi 80/90 and continued Audi's commitment to premium design and performance.

Model Evolution:

The B5 generation, launched in 1995, represented a significant styling and engineering departure from its predecessor, adopting a more fluid and aerodynamic design. It introduced a more sophisticated multi-link front suspension and solidified the A4's reputation in the compact luxury segment. The introduction of the S4 and later the RS4 highlighted Audi's growing capabilities in high-performance vehicles.

Facelift Details:

The B5 generation received a facelift in 1999, which included revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and improvements to various systems, including the introduction of more powerful engine variants.

Production Locations:

Primarily produced at Audi's Ingolstadt plant in Germany, with some components and assembly potentially occurring in other Volkswagen Group facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Audi A4 B5 received numerous accolades during its production run, including being named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times in its early years. The S4 and RS4 variants were recognized for their performance credentials.