🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

A4 / RS4 / S4 Avant

Year:

2006

Chassis Codes:

8E, 8E2, 8E5, 8EC, 8ED

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2006 Audi A4 B7 generation, including the high-performance RS4 and the sporty S4 Avant, occupied a premium segment of the executive sedan and wagon market, directly competing with models from BMW (3 Series) and Mercedes-Benz (C-Class).

Competitors:

Primary competitors for the S4 Avant included the BMW 330xi Touring and Mercedes-Benz C320/C350 4MATIC Estate. The RS4 Avant was in a class of its own as a powerful, niche performance wagon, often cross-shopped with AMG variants from Mercedes-Benz or M models from BMW, though direct wagon competitors were fewer.

Platform:

Based on the Audi B7 platform, known for its refined chassis dynamics and sophisticated design. The RS4 variant, in particular, featured a groundbreaking 4.2L naturally aspirated V8 engine.

AWD:

Standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system, a hallmark of Audi, providing enhanced traction, stability, and performance in various driving conditions.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and variants of the 2006 Audi A4, RS4, and S4 Avant.

Total Pages:

14329

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Mechanical Engine: Including detailed procedures for the 4.2L V8 FSI engine in the RS4 and the 4.2L V8 naturally aspirated or 2.7L V6 twin-turbocharged engines in the S4. Covers engine mechanicals, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, and emissions control.

Transmission:

Transmission: Covers manual and automatic transmission systems, including torque converters, clutch operation, gearbox internals, shift mechanisms, and transmission control modules. Specific details for Tiptronic automatic transmissions.

Driveline Axle:

Driveline Axle: Comprehensive coverage of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, including front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and transfer cases. Torque specifications and rebuild procedures.

Brakes:

Brakes: Details on hydraulic brake systems, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake calipers, rotors, master cylinder, brake lines, and parking brake systems. Includes bleeding procedures and specifications.

Steering:

Steering: Covers hydraulic power steering systems, steering racks, tie rods, steering column, and associated components. Includes troubleshooting and alignment specifications.

Suspension:

Suspension: In-depth coverage of front and rear suspension systems, including control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, struts, springs, anti-roll bars, and wheel bearings. Alignment procedures and specifications.

Electrical:

Electrical: Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical systems, including battery, charging system, starter, lighting circuits, power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, and climate control. Includes diagnostic procedures and component testing.

Body Frame Interior Exterior:

Body & Frame - Interior & Exterior: Detailed information on body construction, panel removal and installation, interior trim, seating systems, dashboard components, exterior trim, doors, hoods, trunks, and bumpers. Includes corrosion protection and repair.

HVAC:

HVAC: Covers the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including the refrigerant circuit, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, control modules, and cabin air filters. Troubleshooting and evacuation/recharge procedures.

Restraints:

Restraints: Comprehensive coverage of the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, impact sensors, and control modules. Safety precautions for working with SRS systems.

Audio Visual Telematics:

Audio, Visual & Telematics: Details on infotainment systems, navigation, sound systems, speaker configurations, antenna systems, and Bluetooth/telematics modules. Troubleshooting and component replacement.

Lights:

Lights: Specifics on headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, and indicator lights. Includes bulb types, aiming procedures, and electrical circuit diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures: Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, and tire rotation.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for various systems. Use of scan tools and diagnostic equipment.

Repair Rebuild:

Repair and rebuild procedures: Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems. Includes torque specifications and tolerances.

Installation:

Installation and replacement: Procedures for installing new or reconditioned components, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical modules, and body panels.

Specifications:

Technical specifications: Torque values, fluid capacities, fluid types, electrical specifications, wheel alignment angles, and dimensional data.

Wiring Diagrams:

Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle electrical systems, including power distribution, ground points, and component connections.

Depth:

Complete factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and full engine/transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Compatibility:

Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.

Requirements:

Requires Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRar for access.

Printability:

Printable: Allows users to print the entire manual or specific sections as needed.

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Rs4 Engine:

4.2L (4163 cc) FSI V8, naturally aspirated. Engine code: BAY.

S4 Engine Variants:

For 2006, the S4 Avant typically featured the 4.2L (4163 cc) V8 FSI (naturally aspirated) or potentially earlier models with the 2.7L V6 Twin-Turbocharged engine (engine code: AGB/AZR for the 2.7T). The 2006 model year predominantly aligns with the naturally aspirated V8. The 4.2L V8 FSI engine produced approximately 420 PS (309 kW; 415 hp) at 7800 rpm and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque at 5500 rpm.

Rs4 Horsepower:

420 PS (309 kW; 415 hp) @ 7800 rpm

Rs4 Torque:

430 Nm (317 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) for the 4.2L V8 RS4 engine, offering direct injection for improved efficiency and performance. Port injection for other S4 variants.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended).

ECU:

Bosch Motronic Engine Control Unit (ECU)

Bore X Stroke Rs4:

84.5 mm x 92.8 mm

Compression Ratio Rs4:

12.5:1

Coolant Type:

G12 Plus (or equivalent purple long-life coolant).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 liters (2.5 gallons)

Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 5W-40 API SJ/CF, ACEA A3/B4 recommended for RS4. For S4, consult manual for specific engine (e.g., SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40).

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) for 4.2L V8 engine. Consult manual for specific engine oil capacity.

🔧 Transmission

Rs4 Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (code: GJB).

S4 Transmission Options:

6-speed manual or 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

AWD System:

Quattro permanent all-wheel drive with Torsen center differential and optional rear sports differential (RS4).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

G 052 145 A1 or G 052 145 A2 (for 6-speed manual) - GL-4 specification.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

G 055 025 A2 (for Tiptronic automatic) - ATF.

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.0 liters.

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Consult manual, typically around 6-7 liters for refill.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length Avant:

Approx. 4648 mm (183.0 in) for Avant models.

Overall Width Avant:

Approx. 1776 mm (70.0 in) excluding mirrors.

Overall Height Avant:

Approx. 1418 mm (55.8 in) for Avant models.

Wheelbase Avant:

Approx. 2711 mm (106.7 in).

Cargo Volume Avant Min:

Approx. 480 liters (16.9 cu ft) with rear seats up.

Cargo Volume Avant Max:

Approx. 1350 liters (47.7 cu ft) with rear seats folded.

Curb Weight Rs4 Avant:

Approx. 1780 kg (3924 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult specific model for GVWR.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112 mm.

Wheel Offset:

ET 35-45 typical, consult specific model.

Tire Size Rs4:

255/40 R18 or optional 265/35 R19.

Tire Size S4 Avant:

Typically 235/45 R17 or optional 235/40 R18, consult specific model.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash:

Good (for A4, specific ratings for S4/RS4 may vary).

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for A4, specific ratings for S4/RS4 may vary).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Esp:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control.

AWD:

Standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system for enhanced stability.

Airbags Front:

Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.

Airbags Side:

Standard front side airbags.

Airbags Curtain:

Standard front and rear side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners and force limiters. Rear ISOFIX child seat anchorage points.

💡 Technology Features

Mmi System:

Optional Multi Media Interface (MMI) system, offering navigation, radio, climate control, and vehicle settings in higher trims.

Audi Sound System:

Optional Bose or Bang & Olufsen sound systems available, providing enhanced audio quality.

Parking Sensors:

Optional front and rear parking sensors (Audi parking system).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation available.

Xenon Headlights:

Optional Xenon Plus headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and adaptive cornering function.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Flexible service system may adjust based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, inspect annually.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Rs4 V8:

Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for the 4.2L FSI V8 engine.

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Timing Belt Chain:

The 4.2L V8 FSI engines utilize a timing chain system, which is designed to last the life of the engine but may require periodic inspection and tensioner checks as per Audi service recommendations.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 as specified in manual).

Oil Consumption V8:

The 4.2L V8 FSI engine (particularly in the RS4) is known for potential higher oil consumption. Regular checks are crucial. Issues with carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection can also occur.

Pcv System Issues:

Potential issues with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, leading to oil leaks or rough running. Crankcase breather hoses can become brittle.

Suspension Components:

Wear on control arm bushings and ball joints, leading to steering looseness or clunking noises. Early B7 models might have seen increased wear on certain suspension components.

Ignition Coils:

Premature failure of ignition coils and spark plugs, especially in the V8 engines, leading to misfires.

Timing Chain Tensioners:

While the timing chain is robust, some instances of worn tensioners or guides can lead to rattling noises, particularly on startup. This requires professional diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Audi Legacy:

Audi, a German automotive manufacturer, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its innovation, engineering prowess, and the introduction of the permanent Quattro all-wheel-drive system in 1980.

A4 B7 Generation:

The 2006 model year belongs to the B7 generation of the Audi A4, which was a significant revision of the B6 platform. This generation introduced updated styling, improved chassis dynamics, and a wider range of powertrain options, including the high-performance RS4 variant.

Rs4 Introduction:

The RS4 nameplate signifies Audi's pinnacle of performance within the A4 lineup. The B7 RS4, launched in 2005 for the 2006 model year, was particularly notable for its naturally aspirated 4.2L V8 engine, a departure from previous turbocharged RS models.

Production Years B7:

2004-2008 (worldwide production dates for B7 platform).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Ingolstadt, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Audi A4 (including S4 variants) was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list in its generation for its blend of performance, luxury, and all-wheel-drive capability.

Rs4 Performance Acclaim:

The RS4 Avant (B7) received significant acclaim from automotive journalists for its exhilarating naturally aspirated V8 engine, exceptional handling, and the practicality of its wagon body style, often cited as a benchmark in the performance wagon segment.