This manual covers the A4 Avant (Wagon), chassis code B5, produced during the 1999 model year. The A4 is a premium compact wagon celebrated for its refined German engineering, sophisticated...
This manual covers the A4 Avant (Wagon), chassis code B5, produced during the 1999 model year. The A4 is a premium compact wagon celebrated for its refined German engineering, sophisticated interior, and the availability of its renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system, making it a capable and comfortable choice for both daily commuting and spirited driving. This generation of the A4 is recognized for its blend of performance across various engine options, including gasoline and TDI diesel variants, and its dynamic handling, often earning accolades such as inclusion on Car and Driver's 10Best lists.
This comprehensive workshop manual provides detailed service and repair information essential for maintaining the A4. It is meticulously designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, offering in-depth coverage of all major vehicle systems, including the powertrain (engines and transmissions), chassis components (suspension, steering, brakes), electrical systems, and bodywork. Within its pages, you will find step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic guides, troubleshooting charts, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and scheduled maintenance recommendations, ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.
🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Audi
Model:
A4
Body Style:
Avant (Wagon)
Year:
1999
Codes
Chassis Code:
B5
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Compact Executive Car / Premium Compact Wagon
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Touring, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, Volvo V40/V70, Saab 9-5 Wagon
Key Features
Vehicle Appeal:
Combines Audi's refined engineering, Quattro all-wheel-drive capability, and practical wagon body style.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, empowering owners and technicians to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively.
4 Stars (for 1998-1999 models, varies slightly by configuration)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on some models
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR) often integrated with ESP or as a standalone feature
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, Optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts, ISOFIX child seat anchors
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Systems:
Various Audi Concert and Symphony radio/cassette/CD systems, Bose premium audio option.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Connectivity
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (limited functionality by modern standards).
Climate Control
Climate System:
Manual air conditioning or optional Climatronic automatic climate control.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 1 year (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specifics)
Timing Belt Interval:
For V6 engines: 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical for V6, consult manual for exact interval and part numbers)
Maintenance Schedule Scope:
Includes schedules for spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and more.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
5W-40 Synthetic (VW 502 00 approval) or 0W-40 Synthetic (VW 503 00 approval) for gasoline engines; consult manual for specific diesel engine oil requirements.
Coolant Type:
G 12 (Pink/Red) Antifreeze/Coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failures (especially 1.8T), CV joint wear, coolant flange leaks (V6), ABS sensor failures, window regulator issues, timing belt tensioner wear (V6), mass air flow sensor (MAF) issues (1.8T).
Maintenance Importance:
Crucial to follow timing belt and coolant flange replacement recommendations for V6 engines to prevent catastrophic failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origin:
Germany
Model Evolution
Generation:
B5 Generation (1995-2001)
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in late 1999/early 2000 model year (often referred to as 'facelift' or 'phase 2' B5) with updated styling, interior, and improved engines/transmissions. This manual likely covers both pre-facelift and facelift B5 models.
Production
Manufacturing Plants:
Ingolstadt, Germany; Brussels, Belgium
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Audi A4 (various models including Avant) was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during the B5 generation for its driving dynamics and refinement.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for performance and comfort, with specific model years and powertrains having varying reliability scores.