Market Position:
The 1996 Audi Cabriolet (Type 89/B3) was positioned as a premium compact convertible, offering stylish European design and a comfortable open-air driving experience. It competed with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet of its era.
Competitive Analysis:
This manual provides essential factory-derived data for maintaining and repairing a vehicle that represented a blend of sportiness and luxury in the convertible segment of the mid-to-late 1990s.
Key Features:
Licensed OE data, user-friendly digital interface, comprehensive coverage of all major vehicle systems, year-long access with renewal options.
Coverage Areas:
Full Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Electrical Schematics, Bodywork
Page Count Estimate:
Extensive (Equivalent to multiple factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Online Service & Repair Manual Software
Licensing:
Officially Licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.
Format:
Web-based Access (PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet Compatible)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel System, Engine Electrical, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & ABS), Body Electrical, HVAC System, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
Body And Interior:
Detailed procedures for interior trim removal, convertible top operation and repair (hydraulics, motors, canvas), door panel service, seat adjustment mechanisms, and body panel alignment.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Component Replacement, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Repair Procedures, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Timing Belt Replacement, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Caliper Servicing, Suspension Component R&R, Steering Gearbox Alignment, Convertible Top Actuator Service
Electrical Diagnosis:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including fuse locations, relay functions, and component testing procedures.
Engine Repair:
Detailed engine tune-up, component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, radiators), cylinder head gasket replacement, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing inspection/replacement.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, and detailed repair steps.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Inclusion of common OBD-I and early OBD-II trouble codes (where applicable for the 1996 model year), with diagnostic flowcharts.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, including cylinder head bolts, main bearing caps, and suspension components.
Engine Code:
ABM / ACE (depending on market and specific configuration)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
2.6 L (2598 cc)
Horsepower:
150 PS (148 bhp; 110 kW) @ 5700 rpm
Torque:
225 Nm (166 lb-ft) @ 3700 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 recommended)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
82.5 mm x 95.7 mm
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (Tiptronic available on some models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate
Gear Ratios Manual 5 Speed:
First: 3.78, Second: 2.16, Third: 1.42, Fourth: 1.03, Fifth: 0.79, Final Drive: 4.26 (Typical values, may vary)
Length:
4410 mm (173.6 in)
Height:
1360 mm (53.5 in)
Wheelbase:
2500 mm (98.4 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1430 kg (3153 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 1460 kg (3219 lbs)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 970 mm (38.2 in)
Front Legroom:
Approx. 1000 mm (39.4 in)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 200-250 Liters (with top up, varies with top position)
Safety Ratings General:
Vehicle safety standards of the era. Features integrated roll-over protection bars.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Power-assisted Steering
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners, Reinforced A-pillars with integrated roll-over protection
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 90,000 km (56,000 miles) or 5 years, whichever comes first (critical for engine longevity)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic (API SJ, ACEA A3/B3)
Coolant Type:
G12 Plus (Pink) or equivalent G12 compliant coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 GL-4 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Type T-IV or equivalent (check specific transmission code)
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 or CHF 11 S
Known Issues:
Convertible top hydraulic leaks, wear on suspension bushings (especially control arms), aging rubber hoses and vacuum lines, potential ABS sensor issues, door seal degradation.
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, tires.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, central locking system faults, dashboard warning light malfunctions, aging wiring harness connectors.
Brand Heritage:
Audi, a German automobile manufacturer, has a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its engineering prowess and design innovation. The Cabriolet line has always been associated with sophisticated open-top motoring.
Model Evolution:
The Audi Cabriolet was introduced in 1991, based on the Audi 80/90 (Type 89) platform. It was designed as a stylish and comfortable four-seater convertible, evolving from Audi's earlier convertible models.
Production Period:
1991 - 2000
Manufacturing Location:
Ingolstadt, Germany
