Segment:
Premium Compact Convertible
Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional repair shops specializing in European vehicles.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (earlier generations), Saab 900/9-3 Convertible, Volvo C70.
Platform Heritage:
Based on the Audi 80/A4 platform, known for its build quality and refined driving dynamics.
Convertible Top:
Features a power-operated fabric soft top, a key selling point and a significant area of maintenance and repair.
Design:
Characterized by Audi's signature styling of the late 1990s, offering a blend of sportiness and elegance.
Manual Completeness:
The most comprehensive and official factory service manual, providing unparalleled depth for repairs and maintenance.
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive coverage of all engine components, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Topics include cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, component overhaul, and adjustment. Fluid specifications and capacity for all applicable transmission types.
Brakes:
In-depth coverage of the braking system, including ABS, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, and power booster. Troubleshooting and repair for all brake system components.
Electrical System:
Extensive electrical system diagnostics, including wiring diagrams for all circuits, component testing, troubleshooting faulty circuits, and repair procedures for starters, alternators, ignition systems, and power distribution.
Suspension And Steering:
Complete service information for the suspension and steering systems, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering pump, rack and pinion, and alignment procedures.
Body And Frame:
Detailed instructions for interior and exterior body repairs, including door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, body panel replacement, glass, trim, and structural component information.
HVAC:
Service and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), and diagnostic procedures.
Restraints:
Information on the safety restraint systems, including airbags, seatbelt mechanisms, and related sensors and control modules. Cautionary notes regarding airbag system service.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement, and brake pad inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems.
Repair:
Detailed, step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems, including torque specifications, special tool requirements, and alignment procedures.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for the overhaul and rebuilding of major components like engines, transmissions, and steering racks.
Diagnosis:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools and interpreting fault codes for accurate problem identification.
Depth:
Complete factory-level technical depth, covering basic maintenance to complex internal component repairs and electronic system diagnostics.
NHTSA Rating:
Not explicitly rated for this specific convertible model, but based on the A4 platform which generally performed well for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR) available on some models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side airbags (optional or standard on some trims).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners for all occupants.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up rollover protection bars (integrated behind rear seats).
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific intervals based on model year and engine.
Timing Belt:
For 2.4L V6 engines, typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). 1.8T engines use a timing chain, which generally doesn't require scheduled replacement unless issues arise.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4 compliant. Viscosity: 5W-40 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific climate recommendations). Capacity: Approx. 4.3-4.5 Liters for 1.8T, 5.5 Liters for 2.4 V6.
Coolant:
G 12/G 12+ (Pink/Red) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity: Approx. 8 Liters.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic leaks, motor failures, fabric wear, and faulty microswitches are common issues for the power convertible top.
Coil Packs:
On the 1.8T engine, ignition coil packs can be a source of misfires.
Window Regulators:
Front and rear window regulator failures can occur, especially with age.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings and ball joints are common due to road wear.
Mass Airflow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idling or performance issues on the 1.8T.