Segment:
Premium compact executive car
Competitors 1998:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus IS
Platform Basis:
Volkswagen Group B5 platform (shared with Volkswagen Passat B5)
Powertrain Options:
Quattro all-wheel drive available on many models, renowned for stability and traction
Design Philosophy:
Understated elegance, build quality, and driver-focused interior
Powertrain:
Mechanical Engine, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveline Axle
Chassis:
Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Tires & Wheels
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Lights, Restraints (Airbags), Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body & Frame - Interior & Exterior, Accessories & Equipment
Comfort And Climate:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Infotainment:
Audio, Visual & Telematics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul
Overhaul:
Detailed engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures
Electrical Repair:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, connector servicing
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, and repair sequences
A4 1.8T:
1.8L turbocharged inline-4 (APU, ARK, AUH, AVC, AWV, AWM engines)
A4 2.8 V6:
2.8L naturally aspirated V6 (AFC, AHA, ATX, AMX engines)
S4 2.7 Bi-Turbo:
2.7L twin-turbocharged V6 (APB, AGB engines)
Rs4 Avant Bi-Turbo:
2.7L twin-turbocharged V6 (ASJ, AZR engines)
1.8T:
150-180 hp (depending on variant and tune)
2.8 V6:
190-204 hp (depending on variant)
S4 2.7 Bi-Turbo:
250-265 hp
Rs4 Avant 2.7 Bi-Turbo:
375-380 hp
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or direct injection (FSI in later models, but primarily MPI for 1998)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)
IIHS Front Impact:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-star (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (ESP) available on some models
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags available
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Audio Systems:
Factory Audi Symphony and Concert sound systems, optional Bose audio
Navigation:
Optional Audi Navigation Plus system (CD-ROM based)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated mobile phone preparation
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil quality used (consult manual for specific recommendations)
Timing Belt Replacement V6:
Recommended every 60,000 - 80,000 miles or 5-7 years for V6 engines. Consult manual for exact interval and engine code.
Timing Belt Replacement Turbo:
The 1.8T engine uses a timing belt; interval typically 60,000 - 80,000 miles or 5-7 years. The V6 engines also have timing belts.
Engine Oil 1.8T:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 specifications
Engine Oil 2.8V6:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 specifications
Coolant:
G12 or G12+ ethylene glycol coolant (pink) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific Audi specifications)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Audi G 052 162 A2 (or equivalent ATF meeting VW TL 521 62 specification)
Coil Packs:
Ignition coil pack failure can cause misfires and rough running (common on 1.8T)
Cv Boots:
Torn Constant Velocity (CV) boots leading to noise and damage
Window Regulators:
Failure of the power window regulator mechanisms
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket leaks can occur with age
ABS Sensor:
ABS wheel speed sensor failures can illuminate ABS and Traction Control warning lights
Audi Legacy:
Long history of engineering excellence, particularly in quattro all-wheel drive technology and luxury interiors
A4 B5 Generation:
The 1998 model represents a refresh of the B5 generation, introduced in 1994 for Europe and 1995 for North America. It featured updated styling and improved technology.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm), Belgium (Brussels), Slovakia (Bratislava)