Segment:
Premium Compact Car
Key Competitors:
BMW 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz A-Class (where available), Volkswagen Golf GTI, Volvo C30
Premium Appeal:
Audi's reputation for build quality, advanced technology, and refined interior design
Powertrain Options:
Choice of efficient turbocharged engines and the availability of Audi's renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Manual Advantage:
Provides instant, convenient access to comprehensive OE-licensed repair data, surpassing traditional printed manuals in usability and searchability.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L FSI, 2.0L TFSI, 3.2L VR6), Drivetrain (Front-Wheel Drive, Quattro All-Wheel Drive), Transmission (6-speed Manual, 6-speed DSG Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front McPherson Strut, Rear Independent Multi-link), Steering (Electric Power Steering), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting Systems, Body Control Modules, Infotainment System, Instrument Cluster, Powertrain Control Modules
Body And Comfort:
Body Repairs, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Seats, Doors, Windows, Sunroof
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Repair And Diagnostics:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service and Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-derived information covering diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and specifications for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Code 1:
BGU/BSE/BSF (1.6L MPI, 8-valve SOHC, 102 HP)
Engine Code 2:
2.0 FSI (Direct Injection, 4-valve DOHC, 150 HP)
Engine Code 3:
2.0 TFSI (Turbocharged Direct Injection, 4-valve DOHC, 200 HP)
Engine Code 4:
3.2 VR6 (3.2L Naturally Aspirated, 4-valve DOHC, 252 HP)
Max Torque 2 0 Tfsi:
280 Nm (206 lb-ft) @ 1800-5000 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 1.6L, Direct Injection (FSI/TFSI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended for TFSI)
Length:
Approx. 4292 mm (169.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1769 mm (69.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1423 mm (56.0 in)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs) for 1.6L FWD
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs) for 3.2L Quattro
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models meeting specific criteria)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESP)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (ASR)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters
Mmi System:
Multi Media Interface (MMI) system available, featuring navigation, radio, CD player, and optional Bluetooth connectivity.
Audio Options:
Standard Audi symphony sound system, optional Bose surround sound system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional front and rear parking sensors (Audi parking system).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface for mobile phones.
Headlights:
Standard Halogen headlights, optional Xenon Plus headlights with LED daytime running lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles (15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (variable service interval system, depending on driving conditions and oil quality).
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (2.0 FSI and 2.0 TFSI engines use timing chains; 1.6 MPI uses a timing belt, typically replaced at 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years). Consult manual for specific engine.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs (TFSI engines), consult manual for other engines.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, meeting VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 specifications (consult manual for specific engine/conditions).
Coolant Spec:
G12++ or G13 Phosphate-free, silicate-free, nitrite-free coolant concentrate (e.g., Pentosin G12++ / VW TL 774 G)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (FMVSS No. 116 DOT 4)
Dsg Transmission Fluid Spec:
G 052 182 (Specific DSG fluid, requires periodic replacement)
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils, PCV valves (TFSI engines), water pumps, PCV breather hoses, control arm bushings, camshaft follower (TFSI engines).
Dsg Transmission Notes:
Mechatronic unit issues, clutch pack wear, and solenoid problems can occur with higher mileage. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Tfsi Engine Notes:
Potential for oil consumption, carbon buildup on intake valves, and timing chain issues if maintenance is neglected. High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can be a point of failure.
Audi Legacy:
Audi, a brand with a long history of automotive innovation dating back to the early 20th century, known for its engineering prowess and design.
A3 Introduction:
The Audi A3 was first introduced in 1996, establishing the premium compact hatchback segment. The 2009 model represents the second generation (Typ 8P).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Ingolstadt and Brussels, Germany.
Car Of The Year:
While the 2009 model year itself may not have specific 'Car of the Year' awards, the A3 platform has historically received praise for its design and engineering.
Consumerreports Reliability:
Consumer Reports reliability ratings for the 2009 A3 varied by model year and specific engine, generally falling into average to above-average for Audi.