Positioning:
The Audi A4 B5 generation was Audi's entry into the premium compact executive segment, competing with established players like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It represented a significant step forward in design and engineering for Audi.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus IS (first generation), Volvo S40/V40.
Vehicle Features:
Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive system. Known for its refined interior, solid build quality, and comfortable ride. Offered with a range of inline-four and V6 engines.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners and independent repair shops to perform maintenance and repairs accurately and cost-effectively, reducing reliance on expensive dealership service and extending vehicle lifespan.
Primary Coverage:
Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific engine/transmission, typically 2000+ pages for comprehensive factory manual.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Mechanical Systems:
Engine Mechanical (including timing belt/chain, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication), Fuel System (including fuel pump, injectors, lines, evaporative emissions), Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch (if manual), Drivetrain (FWD/Quattro)
Electrical Systems:
Ignition System, Starting & Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer Systems, Power Accessories, Engine Control Module (ECM) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics, Body Control Module (BCM)
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body Exterior (panels, doors, hood, trunk), Body Interior (trim, seats, headliner), Doors, Locks, Glass, Mirrors, Frame and Structure, Suspension (front and rear components, alignment), Steering System, Brakes (hydraulic system, ABS, disc/drum), Wheels and Tires
Comfort And Climate:
Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, climate control operation, refrigerant handling
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tire rotation, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission removal/installation, brake caliper replacement, CV joint replacement, alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, radiator replacement, HVAC component replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations and clearing, component testing procedures.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, component location charts, resistance tests, voltage tests, continuity tests.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed electrical diagnostics, and body repair procedures.
Engine Options 1998:
1.6L (ADP, AHL), 1.8L naturally aspirated (ADR, AHL), 1.8L Turbo (AEB, APU, ARK, AWM), 2.6L V6 (ABC), 2.8L V6 30v (ACK, AHL, AMX, APR, AQD, ATQ).
Engine Code Example 1 8T:
AEB
1 8T Horsepower:
150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp)
1 8T Torque:
210 Nm (155 lb-ft)
2 8V6 30V Horsepower:
200 PS (147 kW; 197 bhp)
2 8V6 30V Torque:
280 Nm (207 lb-ft)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) / Coil-on-Plug (COP) on some later models, but 1998 primarily uses coil packs and a distributor.
Engine Layout:
Inline-4 and V6 configurations
Timing Belt Interval Gasoline:
Refer to manual, but typically every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years, depending on engine and usage. Crucial for interference engines.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (012 series)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (01N, 01V)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
G 009 277 (SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 (VW LT 5W-30)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not rated for this specific model year and region, but the B5 platform was generally considered safe for its era.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Optional, often linked with Quattro.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front seatbelt pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory radio with CD player or cassette tape. Bose premium sound system was an option. Speaker locations and replacement guides will be in the manual.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many models.
Phone Integration:
Limited for 1998; some models may have provisions for dealer-installed car phone systems, but no integrated Bluetooth.
Headlight Types:
Halogen headlights standard. Xenon HID headlights were an advanced option on higher trims or later facelift models, but rare for '98.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, using synthetic oil. Check manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Pollen Filter Replacement:
Annually or as needed, often recommended before summer for AC performance.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as per manual recommendations to maintain system integrity and prevent corrosion.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil is commonly recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity and VW 500.00, 502.00, or 505.00 approvals.
Coolant Specification:
G 12 (Pink/Red coolant) or G 11 (Blue coolant) depending on original fill. Always use correct type and mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (Green hydraulic fluid)
Common Problems:
Coil pack failure (especially on 1.8T), MAF sensor issues, window regulator failures, coolant flange leaks, ABS sensor failures, timing belt wear and failure (critical for interference engines), PCV system blockages.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil pressure sender leaks are common with age and mileage.
Audi Brand Philosophy:
Audi has a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its engineering prowess, quattro all-wheel drive technology, and understated luxury and design.
A4 B5 Introduction:
The A4 (B5) replaced the Audi 80/90 and was introduced in 1994 in Europe and 1995 in North America. It marked a significant shift in Audi's design language towards more fluid lines and a more substantial presence.
B5 Facelift:
The B5 received a significant facelift in 1999 (model year 2000), introducing revised exterior styling and interior updates. The 1998 model year represents the pre-facelift version.
Production Locations:
Primarily Ingolstadt, Germany and also assembled in other Volkswagen Group facilities.
