Introduction
|
Market Position
|
Market Segment:
|
Premium Compact Hatchback/Sedan
|
Target Audience:
|
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, technology, and premium quality in a compact package.
|
Competitive Analysis
|
Key Competitors:
|
BMW 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz A-Class (though A-Class was not directly sold in North America in 2007), Volkswagen Golf GTI, Volvo C30
|
Key Features
|
Platform Sharing:
|
Shares the Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform with models like the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and GTI.
|
Design Philosophy:
|
Emphasizes Audi's characteristic clean lines, premium interior appointments, and sporty driving dynamics.
|
Manual Value Proposition:
|
Provides dealership-level repair accuracy and depth, empowering owners for DIY maintenance and repairs, saving time and money.
|
Manual Coverage
|
Systems Covered
|
Engine Systems:
|
Engine mechanical, control system, fuel service, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging
|
Drivetrain Systems:
|
Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles
|
Chassis Systems:
|
Suspension, steering column, power steering, brakes, parking brake, wheels, tires
|
Electrical Systems:
|
Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, multiplex/CAN communication, lighting, instruments, audio/visual, horn, immobilizer, cruise control
|
Body And Interior:
|
Air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, door locks, interior trim, exterior trim, engine hood, doors, windshield, glass, mirrors, instrument panel, seats
|
Comfort And Convenience:
|
Air conditioning, cruise control, wipers, washer system
|
Procedures Included
|
Maintenance Procedures:
|
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication
|
Diagnostic Procedures:
|
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
|
Repair Procedures:
|
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
|
Component Replacement:
|
Detailed instructions for removing and installing parts
|
Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:
|
Wiring diagrams, component testing, repair of electrical faults
|
Technical Depth
|
Depth Of Information:
|
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
|
Diagrams And Illustrations:
|
Comprehensive diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations
|
Schematics:
|
Detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems
|
Transmission
|
Standard
|
Transmission Options Common:
|
6-speed Manual, 6-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) Automatic
|
Optional
|
Transmission Optional Type:
|
6-speed Tiptronic Automatic (on some models, depending on market)
|
Features
|
Dsg Features:
|
Dual-clutch, automated manual transmission offering rapid shifts and sporty performance.
|
Drivetrain
|
Drivetrain Options:
|
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
|
Fluid Specifications
|
Dsg Fluid Type:
|
Specific G 052 182 (Refer to manual for exact fill and change intervals)
|
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
|
G 052 726 (or equivalent, Refer to manual for exact fill and change intervals)
|
Safety Features
|
Ratings
|
NHTSA Rating 2007:
|
Good (Frontal Offset), Acceptable (Side Impact) - NHTSA ratings vary by year and specific test protocol, consult official sources for exact data.
|
IIHS Rating 2007:
|
Good (Frontal Offset) - IIHS ratings vary by year and specific test protocol, consult official sources for exact data.
|
Active Features
|
Active Safety Features Available:
|
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
|
Passive Features
|
Passive Safety Features:
|
Front airbags, front side airbags, available curtain airbags, active front head restraints.
|
Technology Features
|
Infotainment
|
Infotainment System Overview:
|
Audi Symphony II or Concert CD/Radio system, optional navigation system (RNS-E), optional Bose sound system.
|
Audio Connections Common:
|
CD player, AM/FM radio, optional auxiliary input (may require adapter).
|
Driver Assistance
|
Driver Assistance Features Available:
|
Parking sensors (front and rear), cruise control.
|
Connectivity
|
Connectivity Features:
|
Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation.
|
Lighting
|
Lighting Options:
|
Halogen headlights, optional Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights (on later models/facelift).
|
Maintenance
|
Service Intervals
|
Oil Change Interval Typical:
|
10,000 miles or 1 year (flexible service system, depending on driving conditions and oil type used, consult manual for precise recommendation)
|
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
|
Approx. 40,000-60,000 miles for 2.0T FSI (Platinum tipped plugs), longer for VR6. Refer to manual.
|
Timing Belt Or Chain:
|
2.0T FSI and 3.2 FSI engines use timing chains, which are designed to last the life of the engine but require periodic inspection. Refer to manual for inspection intervals.
|
Fluid Specifications
|
Engine Oil Type 2.0T Fsi:
|
VW 502 00 / 503 00 / 504 00 specification (e.g., 5W-40 or 0W-30 synthetic, check manual)
|
Engine Oil Type 3.2 Fsi:
|
VW 504 00 specification (e.g., 0W-30 synthetic, check manual)
|
Coolant Type:
|
G 12 Plus Plus (G12++) or G 13 (Pink/Purple) - Ethylene Glycol based, refer to manual for specific type and mixture.
|
Brake Fluid Type:
|
DOT 4 (High Performance)
|
Known Issues
|
Common Issues 2.0T Fsi:
|
Oil consumption (piston ring design), PCV valve failure leading to vacuum leaks, ignition coil failures, high-pressure fuel pump cam follower wear.
|
Common Issues Dsg:
|
Mechatronic unit issues, clutch pack wear, needing specialized fluid changes.
|
Common Issues Suspension:
|
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, and sway bar links are common wear items.
|
Common Issues Electrical:
|
Water ingress into the ECU box, faulty window regulators, CAN gateway issues.
|
Vehicle History
|
Brand Heritage
|
Brand Philosophy:
|
Audi's heritage is built on 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Advancement through Technology), known for quattro all-wheel drive, pioneering automotive technology, and luxurious design.
|
Model Evolution
|
A3 Introduction:
|
The A3 was first introduced globally in 1996 as a compact executive hatchback, positioned below the A4. The 8P generation, launched in 2003, marked a significant step in design and technology.
|
8P Generation Updates:
|
The 8P generation received a facelift in 2008, bringing updated styling, new engine options, and technology advancements.
|
Production
|
Manufacturing Locations:
|
Primarily manufactured in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, Germany.
|