Refer to specific year/model testing; often achieved good results for its era.
Active Features
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program) - standard on later models and performance variants.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD System:
Quattro all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory Audi Symphony or Concert CD/radio systems with multiple speaker options. Aftermarket integration is common.
Navigation:
Optional Audi Navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Onboard Computer:
Driver information system (DIS) in the instrument cluster for trip data, fuel economy, and warnings.
Key Fob:
Remote central locking with key fob.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil Change
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic oil. Check manual for specific oil type and viscosity grades.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change. (e.g., Mann-Filter W712/5 or equivalent)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed. (e.g., Mann-Filter C35179 or equivalent)
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually. (e.g., Mann-Filter CU2200 or equivalent)
Service Intervals Fluids
Coolant Type:
G12 (Pink) ethylene glycol-based coolant. Audi G 004 000 M2.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years for initial fill, subsequent fills every 2 years or as specified.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (e.g., Castrol DOT 4, Pentosin DOT 4 LV)
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
G 052 171 A1 (API GL-4 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
G 052 162 A1 (or equivalent LT 71141 spec ATF).
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (or equivalent Pentosin CHF 11S/202)
Known Issues
Ignition Coils 1.8T:
Failures are common, leading to misfires and rough running. Often replaced with improved aftermarket units.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Can fail, leading to ABS and ESP warning lights. Sensor itself may need replacement.
Control Arm Bushings:
Wear out over time, causing steering looseness and tire wear. Replacement of control arms or bushings is often necessary.
Cv Boots:
Can tear, leading to grease loss and CV joint damage. Inspect and replace as needed.
Timing Belt 1.8T V6:
Critical maintenance item for non-interference engines (1.8T) and interference engines (V6). Replace per schedule to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Can develop leaks, requiring transmission removal for replacement.
Climate Control Head Unit Failures:
Pixelation or complete failure of the display on climate control units can occur.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Audi Legacy:
Audi AG, a German automobile manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1910, known for its engineering and Quattro all-wheel-drive technology.
Model Evolution
A4 B5 Generation Intro:
The B5 generation A4 replaced the Audi 80/90 and was produced from 1994 to 2001 (Sedan) and 1996 to 2001 (Avant).
B5 Facelift:
The 2000 model year represents a mid-cycle facelift (introduced for 1999.5 model year) for the B5 generation, featuring revised exterior styling (headlights, taillights, grille) and interior updates.
S4 B5 Launch:
The high-performance S4 variant, featuring the 2.7L twin-turbo V6, debuted for the 1999 model year.
Rs4 B5 Launch:
The ultra-high-performance RS4 Avant, developed by Audi Sport GmbH (later quattro GmbH), was launched in 1999 exclusively as an Avant and a limited production model.
Allroad Launch:
The A4 Allroad, a more rugged, lifted version of the Avant with enhanced off-road capabilities, was introduced as a sub-model of the A4 in late 1999 for the 2000 model year.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ingolstadt, Germany and other Audi assembly plants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Audi A4, particularly in Quattro form, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during this era.
Popular Mechanics Editor Choice:
Often recognized for its engineering and premium feel in automotive publications.
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
Generally received good safety ratings for its time, reflecting Audi's commitment to occupant protection.
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