🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

A4 RS4 / S4 Avant

Year:

2004

Chassis Codes:

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

Vehicle Type:

High-performance Station Wagon (Avant)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Audi A4 (B6 generation) platform, particularly in its RS4 and S4 Avant guises, represented a pinnacle of performance, luxury, and practicality in the executive compact segment. These models offered a blend of everyday usability with exhilarating performance, directly competing with vehicles like the BMW M3 Touring (where available) and Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG Estate.

Competitive Analysis:

The 2004 RS4 and S4 Avant models stood out with their potent V8 engines (in the RS4), quattro all-wheel-drive system, and sophisticated chassis tuning, offering a superior driving experience and broader capability than many competitors. The S4 Avant, with its V8, provided a strong performance statement, while the RS4 amplified this with even higher output and exclusive performance enhancements.

Key Features Vehicle:

Powerful V8 engine (RS4), potent V8 engine (S4), quattro permanent all-wheel-drive, sport-tuned suspension, luxurious interior appointments, practicality of the Avant body style, advanced electronic stability control systems.

Key Features Manual:

Comprehensive factory-level repair data, detailed diagrams, exploded views, diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, electrical schematics, and extensive troubleshooting guides.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models Covered

Page Count:

14329

Manual Type:

Full Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Printable:

Yes

Search Ability:

Fully Searchable

Compatibility:

Any Windows and Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and/or WinRar

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Information, Accessories & Equipment, Audio/Visual/Telematics, Brakes, Driveline Axle, Electrical, Lights, Restraints, Steering, Suspension, Body & Frame (Interior & Exterior), Mechanical Engine, Transmission, Tires & Wheels, HVAC, Wiring Diagrams

Procedures Included:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Repair, Overhaul, Wiring, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level repair procedures, diagnostic fault codes, torque specifications, repair times, and detailed component descriptions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Quality:

High-resolution PDF for clear printing and digital viewing.

Print Quality:

Optimized for professional printing, allowing selective page printing.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Rs4 Engine Code:

B52 (derived from the 2.7L twin-turbo V6, but the B6 RS4 had a 4.2L V8)

Rs4 Engine Type:

4.2L naturally aspirated V8 FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection)

Rs4 Displacement:

4163 cc

Rs4 Horsepower:

420 PS (309 kW; 414 hp) @ 7800 rpm

Rs4 Torque:

430 Nm (317 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm

S4 Engine Code:

BBK

S4 Engine Type:

4.2L naturally aspirated V8 FSI

S4 Displacement:

4163 cc

S4 Horsepower:

340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp) @ 7000 rpm

S4 Torque:

410 Nm (302 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) on RS4/S4

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Rs4 0 60 Mph:

Approx. 4.9 seconds

S4 0 60 Mph:

Approx. 5.5 seconds

🔧 Transmission

Rs4 Transmission Type:

6-speed manual transmission

S4 Transmission Type:

6-speed manual transmission

S4 Optional Transmission:

6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission

Drivetrain:

quattro Permanent All-Wheel Drive

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

G 052 145 A2 (or equivalent with appropriate API GL-4/GL-5 rating)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

G 052 162 A1 (or equivalent ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4700 mm (RS4 Avant) / 4581 mm (S4 Avant)

Width:

Approx. 1810 mm (RS4 Avant) / 1766 mm (S4 Avant)

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (RS4 Avant) / 1405 mm (S4 Avant)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1720 kg (RS4 Avant) / 1675 kg (S4 Avant Manual)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 460 liters (rear seats up) / 1460 liters (rear seats folded)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2745 mm

Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Wheel Size:

RS4: 18x8.5J or 19x8.5J; S4: 18x8J

Tire Size:

RS4: 255/40 R18 or 255/35 R19; S4: 235/40 R18

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

While specific 2004 NCAP ratings for RS4/S4 Avant might vary by region, the B6 A4 platform generally achieved good safety performance for its era. The manual will detail specific structural integrity and component safety systems.

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), EDL (Electronic Differential Lock), Traction Control System (ASR), Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, pre-tensioned seatbelts with force limiters, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Audi Symphony II or Concert audio systems with CD player, optional navigation system (MMI Navigation Plus on later models), Bose premium sound system option.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, rear parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control (dual-zone).

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, satellite radio preparation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (flexible service system, consult manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions).

Major Service Intervals:

Includes spark plug replacement (V8 typically every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type), timing belt/chain inspection/replacement (V8 uses a timing chain), brake fluid flush (every 2 years), coolant flush (every 2-4 years).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic, meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 specifications.

Coolant Specification:

G 12 (Pink) or G 12 Plus (Red) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Known Issues:

Timing chain guides and tensioners (V8 engines can be prone to wear, leading to noise), ignition coil failure, mass air flow sensor issues, oil consumption (especially on early V8s), coolant flange leaks, CV joint wear on quattro systems, suspension component wear (control arms, ball joints).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Audi, a German manufacturer renowned for its 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Advancement through Technology), has a long history of producing premium and performance-oriented vehicles. The RS (Rennsport) designation signifies Audi's highest performance models, developed by quattro GmbH.

Model Evolution:

The B6 generation A4 (produced from 2000 to 2006) succeeded the B5 generation. The S4 variant transformed the A4 into a potent executive sports sedan and Avant, while the RS4 (introduced later in the B6/B7 generation crossover, or specific 2004 model year for some markets) represented the ultimate performance iteration, often featuring a V8 engine, a departure from previous RS4s with turbocharged V6s.

Production Years:

B6 A4 platform: 2000-2006. Specific 2004 RS4 Avant models may represent a distinct production run or early introduction of the V8 RS4.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The B6 Audi A4 platform was generally well-received by automotive critics for its refined interior, competent quattro system, and comfortable ride. While specific awards for the 2004 RS4/S4 Avant variants might be niche, they were recognized for their performance and luxury in their respective segments.