Present on 1.8T (BFB, AVJ, BEX) models. Garrett turbocharger.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (FWD), 6-speed Manual (Quattro).
Optional
Optional Transmission:
Tiptronic 5-speed Automatic (FWD and Quattro).
Features
Drive Modes:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Audi quattro All-Wheel Drive.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ATF for automatic transmissions (e.g., G 055 025 or equivalent), Manual transmission fluid (e.g., G 052 171 or equivalent).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Sedan: Approx. 4574 mm (179.9 in); Avant (Wagon): Approx. 4586 mm (180.6 in).
Width:
Approx. 1766 mm (69.5 in).
Height:
Sedan: Approx. 1423 mm (56.0 in); Avant: Approx. 1452 mm (57.2 in).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2642 mm (104.0 in).
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 460 liters (16.2 cu ft).
Cargo Volume Avant:
Approx. 480 liters (16.9 cu ft) with rear seats up, 1370 liters (48.4 cu ft) with rear seats folded.
Weights
Curb Weight Examples:
1.8T FWD Manual: Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs); 3.0 Quattro Auto: Approx. 1650 kg (3638 lbs).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating Examples:
Likely received 4 or 5 stars in frontal and side impact tests based on contemporary models and industry standards.
IIHS Rating Examples:
Likely received 'Good' ratings in relevant crashworthiness categories.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Program der Stabilisierung (PD S).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side airbags, optional rear side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX (or equivalent) anchor points for child safety seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Standard Audi Symphony or Concert radio with CD player. Optional Audi Navigation Plus system with color screen and Sirius satellite radio capability.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 8-10 speakers, with optional Bose premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional front and rear parking sensors (Audi parking system).
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation (may require a specific cradle).
Auxiliary Input:
May be available as an option for connecting external audio devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (15,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (Longlife service intervals may apply).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (45,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Recommended annually or every 12,000 miles (19,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium/platinum.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Engines with timing chains (e.g., 3.0 V6) do not require periodic replacement. 1.8T and 2.0 FSI engines use timing belts, typically requiring replacement around 100,000-120,000 miles (160,000-190,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN, ACEA A3/B4 or specific VW 502.00/505.00 approved oil. Viscosity typically 5W-40 or 0W-40.
Coolant Specification:
G12 Plus Plus (G12++) or G13 approved coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (e.g., G 000 000 M2 or equivalent).
Known Issues
Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils, leading to misfires and rough running, particularly on 1.8T engines.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing.
Suspension Components:
Wear on control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends, leading to steering play and uneven tire wear.
Failure of HVAC blend door actuators, causing issues with temperature and airflow control.
Pcv Valve System:
Clogging or failure of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, leading to oil leaks and rough idle.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Potential failure of the timing belt tensioner on belt-driven engines, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origins:
Audi AG, a German manufacturer of automobiles, founded in 1910, known for its 'Vorsprung durch Technik' (Advancement through Technology).
Model Evolution
A4 Lineage:
The Audi A4 succeeded the Audi 80/90 line and has been a cornerstone of Audi's executive car offerings since its introduction in 1994.
B6 Generation:
The B6 generation (Typ 8E for sedan/avant, Typ 8H for convertible) was introduced in late 2000 for the 2001 model year and saw its primary production run through 2006. The 2004 model year represents a mid-cycle refinement within this generation.
Production
Production Location:
Primary manufacturing plant located in Ingolstadt, Germany, with other facilities in Europe.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Editor Awards Examples:
The B6 A4 generation generally received positive reviews for its sophisticated styling, comfortable interior, and competent handling, often lauded as a strong contender in its class.
Safety Awards Examples:
Consistently achieved good safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS, reflecting its robust construction and safety features.
Design Accolades:
The B6 A4's design was considered a significant step forward for Audi, contributing to the brand's growing reputation for premium and stylish vehicles.