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Introduction
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Market Position
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Market Position:
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Premium compact executive car, competing with BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus IS.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitive Analysis:
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The 2008 Audi A4 (B7) was praised for its sophisticated design, high-quality interior, and advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive system, offering a compelling blend of comfort and performance. Its refinement and technological features positioned it strongly against its German rivals.
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Key Features
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Key Features:
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Striking design with Audi's signature Singleframe grille, advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive, refined interior materials, potent TFSI and FSI engine options, available advanced driver-assistance systems.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Systems Covered:
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Engine (2.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI V6), Drivetrain (Quattro AWD, FWD), Transmission (6-speed Manual, Tiptronic Automatic), Brakes (ABS, EBD, ESP), Suspension (Front Independent McPherson Strut, Rear Independent Trapezoidal Link), Steering (Electro-mechanical Power Steering), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Climate Control, Electrical System (ECU, wiring diagrams, component testing), Body & Chassis, Interior & Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts).
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Procedures Included
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Procedures Included:
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Routine maintenance, scheduled service, diagnostic troubleshooting trees, component removal and installation, torque specifications, electrical system testing, component testing, calibration procedures, fluid capacities and types, wheel alignment, brake system bleeding, timing belt/chain inspection and replacement (as applicable), exhaust system repair, suspension component replacement, HVAC system servicing.
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Technical Depth
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Technical Depth:
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Comprehensive, from basic maintenance and fluid checks to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhaul, electrical system troubleshooting using factory diagnostic tools (e.g., VCDS), and body repair.
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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IIHS Front Crash Rating:
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Good (Top Pick consideration for its year)
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NHTSA Front Driver Side Rating:
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5 Stars
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NHTSA Front Passenger Side Rating:
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5 Stars
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NHTSA Side Driver Door Rating:
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5 Stars
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NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Rating:
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5 Stars
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NHTSA Rollover Rating:
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4 Stars
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Active Features
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Active Safety Features:
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Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
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Passive Features
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Passive Safety Features:
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Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags, active front head restraints, front and rear crumple zones, body-side reinforcement.
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Technology Features
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Infotainment
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Infotainment System:
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Audi Symphony or Concert infotainment systems, with optional MMI (Multi Media Interface) navigation and control system on higher trims.
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Audio Features:
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AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 playback, optional satellite radio, and premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).
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Driver Assistance
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Driver Assistance Features:
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Optional features include Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, parking sensors (front and rear), and cruise control.
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Connectivity
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Connectivity Features:
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Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling (optional), AUX input for audio devices.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used, as indicated by the car's flexible service reminder system.
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Spark Plug Replacement Interval Tfsi:
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Approx. 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.
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Timing Belt Chain Inspection:
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The 2.0 TFSI utilizes a timing chain, generally requiring inspection rather than scheduled replacement, though guides and tensioners can wear. The 3.2 FSI V6 also uses a timing chain.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type 2.0 Tfsi:
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SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30, meeting VW 502 00 or VW 505 00 specifications (e.g., Castrol Syntec, Mobil 1).
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Engine Oil Type 3.2 Fsi:
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SAE 0W-30, meeting VW 504 00 or VW 507 00 specifications.
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Coolant Type:
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G12 Plus (Pink) or G12++ (Purple), ethylene glycol-based coolant.
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Transmission Fluid Manual:
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API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
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Transmission Fluid Automatic Tiptronic:
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VW G 055 005 A2 or equivalent ATF.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 4 (or DOT 4 Plus for high-performance applications).
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Power Steering Fluid Type:
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Hydraulic fluid meeting VW G 004 000 M2 specification (for electro-mechanical system).
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Known Issues
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Common Issues:
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PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure leading to oil consumption, ignition coil failures, water pump leaks, timing chain tensioner issues (especially on early B7 models with the 2.0T), carbon buildup in direct-injection engines, power steering pump leaks, and potential suspension component wear (control arms, ball joints).
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Recommended Maintenance
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Recommended Maintenance:
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Regular oil changes with correct specification oil, regular inspection of PCV system, ignition coils, and coolant hoses. Checking for oil leaks and drivability issues. Replacing cabin air filters and engine air filters at recommended intervals.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Brand Heritage:
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Audi, a German automaker with a long history dating back to the early 20th century, is renowned for its engineering prowess, sophisticated design, and pioneering spirit in automotive technology, particularly with its quattro all-wheel-drive system.
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Model Evolution
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Model Evolution:
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The Audi A4 debuted in 1994 as a successor to the Audi 80. The 2008 model represents the final year of the B7 generation, which was a significant facelift and platform update of the B6 generation, introducing more aggressive styling and updated powertrains.
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Production
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Production Years B7:
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2004-2008
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Manufacturing Locations:
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Ingolstadt, Germany; Brussels, Belgium; Györ, Hungary.
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