🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Audi

Model:

100

Model Code:

C3 (Type 44/44Q)

Generation Designation:

Third Generation (C3)

Production Years:

1982-1991

Chassis Codes:

Type 44 (FWD), Type 44Q (Quattro)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Premium mid-size executive sedan and wagon.

Key Competitors:

BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Volvo 700 Series, Saab 9000.

Vehicle Philosophy:

Audi's reputation for Quattro all-wheel drive, sophisticated engineering, and a high-quality interior characterized the 100.

Aerodynamics:

The C3 generation was renowned for its exceptionally low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30, setting new standards for production cars.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Years:

1988

Vehicle Variants Covered:

Covers both Sedan and Avant body styles, FWD and Quattro drivetrains, and various engine and transmission combinations available in 1988 for the C3 generation.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely comprehensive, exceeding 1000 pages based on typical workshop manuals for this era.

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive workshop manual covering repair, maintenance, servicing, and diagnostics.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Format Details:

PDF format, ensuring easy viewing and printing. 'No gimmicks, no extra software needed' implies a standard, universally compatible PDF.

Print Quality Preview:

Assumed to be high-quality scans of original factory manuals, offering clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods), fuel injection (CIS-E, Motronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed automatic, e.g., ZF 4HP22), clutch, driveshafts, CV joints, Quattro all-wheel drive system.

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear independent suspension, McPherson struts, trailing arms), steering system (power steering), braking system (front discs, rear discs/drums, ABS components), wheels and tires.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and sensor diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seating, HVAC system components, body seals, paint, corrosion protection.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, lubrication points, drive belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Engine Repairs:

Head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve adjustments, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable), fuel injector testing and replacement, sensor replacement, exhaust system repair.

Transmission Repairs:

Clutch replacement, transmission fluid and filter changes, seal replacement, internal component inspection and repair (for both manual and automatic), torque converter service.

Brake System Repairs:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake line replacement, ABS system diagnostics and component replacement, master cylinder replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing sensors and actuators, starter/alternator testing and replacement, ECU diagnostics.

Bodywork Repairs:

Minor body repair, panel alignment, seal replacement, rust prevention and repair techniques.

Interior Trim Removal:

Instructions for removing and reinstalling interior panels, seats, dashboard components, and headliner.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, component testing specifications.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions with clear diagrams and specifications for disassembly, assembly, and torquing sequences.

Special Tools:

Identification of necessary special tools for specific repairs and maintenance tasks.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all major electrical components and circuits.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for diagnosing and resolving common mechanical, electrical, and system faults.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1988:

Inline-5 cylinder engines: 2.0L (NF, NG), 2.2L (KU, KV, KX, KE, KG), 2.3L (NF, NG - some markets, often referred to as 2.3E).

Engine Design:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) depending on variant. Transverse mounting.

Power Output Range:

Approximately 115 hp to 136 hp for naturally aspirated gasoline engines, and up to 165 hp for turbocharged variants (e.g., 2.2 Turbo Quattro).

Torque Output Range:

Approximately 170 Nm to 220 Nm for naturally aspirated, higher for turbocharged.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) mechanical fuel injection, Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) electronic CIS, or Bosch Motronic (M1.3, M2.3) electronic fuel injection and ignition.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium or super unleaded recommended).

2.2 Turbo Quattro:

Engine code: WY (2.2L Turbo, 10v, 165 hp). Specific for the performance variant.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Type 016).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP22, sometimes Audi's own Jatco-based unit on FWD models).

Drivetrain Options:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) or Quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

Quattro System:

Viscous coupling (VC) center differential, open rear differential (some early models may have had different configurations).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 5-door Avant (Wagon).

Length:

Approx. 4750 mm (Sedan)

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm

Height:

Approx. 1430 mm (Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1500 kg depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Designed to meet late 1980s European safety standards. No standardized global crash ratings like modern NCAP.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, particularly on higher trims and Quattro models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag typically optional or absent in 1988. Passenger airbags not standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in the front, two-point lap belts in the rear (later models may have three-point rear belts).

Body Structure:

Integral safety cage, energy-absorbing crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed Audi Gamma or Concert radio/cassette players. Optional CD players available on some models.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC systems, optional automatic climate control (Climatronic) on higher-end models.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available.

Original Connectivity:

Limited to factory audio systems. No modern Bluetooth or smartphone integration from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for exact specs).

Timing Belt Interval:

For engines with timing belts (e.g., some 2.0L and 2.2L variants), intervals are critical, typically around 60,000-90,000 km or 4-5 years. Critical to verify specific engine code.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by plug type (copper, platinum), generally 30,000-50,000 km.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 recommended, though 5W-40 or 0W-40 may be used for colder climates. Check manual for specific viscosity and capacity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. G11 specification (blue/green) or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual specifies exact type.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or Dexron III compatible ATF. Check manual for specific type and capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Hydraulic fluid type specified by Audi, often CHF 11S or equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, fuel pump, idle control valves, door lock actuators, sunroof drains and motors.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corrosion on grounds, aging wiring insulation, fuse box issues, sender unit failures, especially in the climate control and fuel injection systems.

Engine Management Issues:

Faulty airflow meters (CIS-E), vacuum leaks, lambda sensor failures, MAF sensor issues (if equipped).

Quattro Drivetrain:

Wear in the viscous coupling (leading to binding under cornering) and differential components.

📚 Vehicle History

Audi History Context:

Audi's post-war resurgence and focus on front-wheel drive and Quattro technology were key to its identity.

C3 Generation Impact:

The C3 generation (1982-1991) was a significant departure, emphasizing aerodynamics, comfort, and advanced (for the time) technology. It laid the groundwork for Audi's modern design language.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Ingolstadt).

Sales Performance:

The C3 was a successful model for Audi, significantly boosting sales and international presence.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

The C3 generation's design, particularly its aerodynamic efficiency, was highly praised and influential.

Automotive Press Reviews:

Often lauded for its comfort, build quality, Quattro system performance, and advanced engineering for its era.