🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Audi Model: A4 Year: 1999 Generation Generation Code: B5 (Typ 8D) Codes Platform: Volkswagen Group B5 Platform 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 1999 Audi A4 (B5 generation) was a significant model for Audi, aiming to compete in the premium compact executive segment against rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, emphasizing quattro all-wheel drive and refined interiors. Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 3 Series (E36/E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus ES, Infiniti I30. Key Features Key Features Vehicle: Available with front-wheel drive or legendary quattro all-wheel drive, a range of efficient four-cylinder and V6 engines, and a reputation for solid build quality and sophisticated design. Key Features Manual: Provides comprehensive diagnostic and repair information for DIY mechanics and professional technicians, enabling efficient troubleshooting and maintenance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language: English Format: Downloadable PDF Page Count Page Count Estimate: Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine removal/installation, internal engine components, cylinder head, engine block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, cooling system. Fuel System: Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure regulators, fuel lines, EVAP system. Transmission Drivetrain: Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, differentials, CV joints, Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Steering Suspension Brakes: Steering rack, power steering pump, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms), brake system hydraulics, calipers, rotors, ABS system. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrument cluster, ECUs, sensors, immobilizer system. Body Chassis: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, bumpers, frame specifications, corrosion protection. Exhaust Intake: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, intake manifold, air filter housing, throttle body. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections. Repair Procedures: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all covered systems. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, common fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics. Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive overhaul and repair procedures for most major mechanical, electrical, and body components. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval. Print Quality Print Quality Recommendation: High resolution for clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Codes Options: 1.8L Turbocharged I4 (AEB, APU, ARK, AWM), 2.8L V6 (ACK, AMX, AHA, ATQ). Performance 1.8T Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.) 1.8T Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 1950 rpm (approx.) 2.8L V6 Horsepower: 190 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.) 2.8L V6 Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance and efficiency) Engine Mechanical Timing Belt Interval: Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (crucial for 1.8T and V6 models to prevent catastrophic engine damage). 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual (01A for FWD/Quattro) Optional Optional Transmission: 5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (01V for Quattro, 01N for FWD) Features Quattro AWD: Torsen center differential in quattro models, providing variable torque split. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: G 052 911 A1/A2 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: G 052 162 A2 (or ATF SP-III equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 102.8 inches (2611 mm) Length: 177.9 inches (4519 mm) Width: 69.2 inches (1758 mm) Height: 55.5 inches (1410 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 3131-3450 lbs (1420-1565 kg) depending on configuration Towing Capacity: Not specified for most markets, generally not recommended. Cargo Trunk Capacity: 15.7 cubic feet (445 Liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Test: 4/5 stars (driver), 4/5 stars (passenger) - Model Year 1999 (US) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Traction Control: Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available on some models, particularly with quattro. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard Audi Chorus radio/cassette player, optional Audi Concert CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models. Connectivity Onboard Diagnostics: OBD-II compliant, allowing for diagnostic code reading with compatible scanners. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Recommended every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used). Refer to manual for specific guidance. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as per manual inspection. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually. Spark Plug Replacement: Iridium spark plugs typically last 60,000 - 100,000 miles. Check manual for specific type and interval. Fluid Specifications Coolant Type:...
The 1999 Audi A4 (B5 generation) was a significant model for Audi, aiming to compete in the premium compact executive segment against rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, emphasizing quattro all-wheel drive and refined interiors.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36/E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Lexus ES, Infiniti I30.
Key Features
Key Features Vehicle:
Available with front-wheel drive or legendary quattro all-wheel drive, a range of efficient four-cylinder and V6 engines, and a reputation for solid build quality and sophisticated design.
Key Features Manual:
Provides comprehensive diagnostic and repair information for DIY mechanics and professional technicians, enabling efficient troubleshooting and maintenance.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Downloadable PDF
Page Count
Page Count Estimate:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance and efficiency)
Engine Mechanical
Timing Belt Interval:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (crucial for 1.8T and V6 models to prevent catastrophic engine damage).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (01A for FWD/Quattro)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Tiptronic Automatic (01V for Quattro, 01N for FWD)
Features
Quattro AWD:
Torsen center differential in quattro models, providing variable torque split.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
G 052 911 A1/A2 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 052 162 A2 (or ATF SP-III equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
102.8 inches (2611 mm)
Length:
177.9 inches (4519 mm)
Width:
69.2 inches (1758 mm)
Height:
55.5 inches (1410 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3131-3450 lbs (1420-1565 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Not specified for most markets, generally not recommended.
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
15.7 cubic feet (445 Liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
4/5 stars (driver), 4/5 stars (passenger) - Model Year 1999 (US)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available on some models, particularly with quattro.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard Audi Chorus radio/cassette player, optional Audi Concert CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Connectivity
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II compliant, allowing for diagnostic code reading with compatible scanners.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used). Refer to manual for specific guidance.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as per manual inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically last 60,000 - 100,000 miles. Check manual for specific type and interval.
5W-40 or 0W-40 synthetic oil is generally recommended for optimal performance and protection, especially for the turbocharged engine. Refer to manual for specific ratings.
Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, ABS sensor issues, CV joint wear (especially on quattro models), suspension component wear (control arms, tie rods).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Audi Heritage:
Audi has a long history of engineering excellence, particularly known for its quattro all-wheel-drive system, innovative designs, and a focus on premium quality and performance.
Model Evolution
A4 B5 Generation:
The B5 generation (1995-2001 in Europe, 1996-2001 in North America) marked Audi's resurgence in the compact executive segment with a more modern platform and design language.