Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic design, advanced aluminum spaceframe construction (Audi Space Frame - ASF) for reduced weight and improved rigidity
Powertrain Offerings:
Powerful V8 engine, standard Quattro all-wheel drive for exceptional traction and stability
Technology And Luxury:
Premium interior appointments, advanced climate control, available premium audio, advanced safety features
General Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair
Specific Systems Coverage:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical, Body, Interior
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (digital format, content equivalent to over 1000 printed pages)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual (Software)
Format:
Online Access (Web Browser Compatible)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (4.2L V8), engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (5-speed Tiptronic automatic), drivetrain (Quattro permanent all-wheel drive)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent), steering (rack and pinion, hydraulic power assist), brakes (front and rear discs, ABS), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, locks, instrument cluster, audio system, climate control electronics, airbags, starter, alternator
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seating, glass, weatherstripping
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad/rotor replacement, belt replacement, battery maintenance
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter), transmission service, brake system repair, suspension component replacement (e.g., control arms, shocks), steering system repair, exhaust system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, testing procedures for various systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Expert Level (covering complete overhauls, advanced diagnostics, and component-level repairs)
Software Platform:
Web-based, accessible via any modern internet browser
Accessibility:
Compatible with PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet
Print Capability:
Content can be printed page-by-page or in sections
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Code:
AEW (for 4.2L V8)
Engine Type:
4.2L naturally aspirated V8
Displacement:
4172 cc (254.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
82.5 mm x 78.5 mm (3.25 in x 3.09 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 5 valves per cylinder (30 valves total)
Horsepower:
300 PS (296 hp; 221 kW) at 6000 rpm
Torque:
400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 3300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission
Optional Transmissions:
N/A (5-speed Tiptronic was standard for the 1997 A8 Quattro)
Drivetrain:
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system
Tiptronic Functionality:
Allows manual selection of gears via selector lever or steering wheel buttons (depending on exact configuration)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Likely 4-star (typical for the era and segment, specific data for 1997 model may vary)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated front discs, solid rear discs
Stability:
Quattro all-wheel drive, optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) might have been available on later D2 models, but less common for '97.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Body Structure:
Audi Space Frame (ASF) aluminum construction for enhanced safety and rigidity
Audio System:
Premium Audi sound system, often with Bose speakers. Cassette player and AM/FM radio were standard. CD changer optional.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with a dashboard-mounted display.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were not a common factory option for this model year.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated car phone or preparation for a mobile phone (older analog systems).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Audi recommended timing belt replacement every 60,000 to 80,000 miles (96,000 to 128,000 km) for the 4.2L V8 engine. This is a critical maintenance item.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting VW 502 00 specification. Capacity: approximately 7.7 liters (8.1 US quarts).
Coolant:
G12 or G12+ ethylene glycol coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: approximately 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts).
Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 A1 or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) for the 5-speed Tiptronic. Capacity: approximately 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) for a pan drop and fill.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S hydraulic fluid. Capacity: approximately 1.0-1.2 liters.
Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils can lead to misfires and rough running. Replacement of individual coils or coil packs is common.
Suspension Components:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings and ball joints can cause steering wander and noise. Audi's multi-link suspension can be costly to repair.
Climate Control System:
HVAC blower motor resistors, climate control head units, and vacuum leaks can cause climate control malfunctions.
Door Locks And Windows:
Faulty door lock actuators, window regulators, and central locking pumps can lead to malfunctioning doors and windows.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals.
Audi Legacy:
Known for its engineering prowess, Quattro all-wheel drive technology, and premium vehicle segment presence.
A8 Introduction:
The A8 (D2) was introduced in 1994 in Europe and 1996 in North America, replacing the Audi V8. It was Audi's flagship sedan, designed to compete with established luxury marques.
D2 Platform:
This generation (D2) was characterized by its aluminum spaceframe, advanced technology, and sophisticated design.
Production Period:
1994-2002 (D2 platform)
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The A8 was frequently lauded for its technology and luxury, though specific '10 Best' mentions for the 1997 model year would need verification.
Industry Reviews:
Praised for its smooth ride, powerful engine, Quattro all-wheel drive, and innovative aluminum spaceframe technology.
