Home ReviewsRefund
Home/Audi/A6/Audi A6 C5 (1997-2001)/Repair manual/Procedures/Maintenance Information
Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Procedures All sections

Maintenance Information Audi A6 C5

Procedures 3 illustrations ~1670 words

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 1

Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation
Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Operating Conditions From Severe Service Schedule

Severe Service (Unique Driving Conditions)

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

  1. Short Trips In Freezing Temperatures
  2. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
  3. Continuous Mountain Driving
  4. Severe Dust Conditions
  5. Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
  6. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

CAMSHAFT TIMING BELT

CAUTIONFailure to replace a faulty camshaft timing belt may result in serious engine damage.

The condition of camshaft drive belts should always be checked on vehicles which have more than 50,000 miles. Although some manufacturers do not recommend belt replacement at a specified mileage, others require it at 60,000-100,000 miles. A camshaft drive belt failure may cause extensive damage to internal engine components on most engines, although some designs do not allow piston-to-valve contact. These designs are often called "Free Wheeling".

Many manufacturers changed their maintenance and warranty schedules in the mid-1980's to reflect timing belt inspection and/or replacement at 50,000-60,000 miles. Most service interval schedules in this manual reflect these changes.

Belts or components should be inspected and replaced if any of the following conditions exist

  1. Cracks Or Tears In Belt Surface
  2. Missing, Damaged, Cracked Or Rounded Teeth
  3. Oil Contamination
  4. Damaged Or Faulty Tensioners
  5. Incorrect Tension Adjustment

Replace camshaft timing belt at 90,000 mile intervals.

BRAKE FLUID SERVICE

Replace brake fluid every 2 years regardless of mileage.

CAUTIONDO NOT add or mix DOT 5 silicone type brake fluid with brake fluid in vehicle as severe component corrosion could result and may lead to brake system failure.

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS
Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS

MaterialConditionSpecification
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature Less Than -20°F (-30°C) To 100°F (38°C)Energy Conserving Oil SAE 5W-30; 5W-40; SAE 10W-30; 10W-40
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature Less Than -20°F (-30°C) To 100°F (38°C)Multi-Grade Oil SAE 5W-50 SAE 10W-50; 10W-60
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature From -20°F (-30°C) To 60°F (18°C)Multi-Grade Oil SAE 5W-30; SAE 5W-40
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature From 0°F (-18°C) To 60°F (18°C)Multi-Grade Oil SAE 10W-30; SAE 10W-40
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature Less Than -20°F (-30°C) To 100°F (38°C)Multi-Grade Oil SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil (1)Ambient Temperature From - 0°F (-18°C) To Over 100°F (38°C)Multi-Grade Oil SAE 15W-40; 15W-50 SAE 20W-40; 20W-50
Engine CoolantAll50/50 Mixture Distilled Water Ethylene Glycol
Brake FluidAllGenuine Audi Brake Fluid or DOT 4
(1) SAE 5W-30 is preferred. Use only API, SH grade "Energy Conserving II" approved oil with Starburst Symbol.
(1)SAE 5W-30 is preferred. Use only API, SH grade "Energy Conserving II" approved oil with Starburst Symbol.

LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS

FLUID CAPACITIES

ItemCondition(1) Specification
Engine OilDrained, With Filter6.3 Qts. (6.0L)
Windshield Washer FluidDrained5.0 Qts. (4.7L)
Fuel TankCapacity18.5 Gal. (70.0L)
(1) Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level.
(1)Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level.

FLUID CAPACITIES

TIRE REPLACEMENT

Tires should be replaced with the same tires originally installed on the vehicle. It is recommended that tires be changed by an Audi Dealer, because they have the special tools and necessary expertise.

CAUTIONDO NOT mix tires of different design such as steel belted radials with radial bias belted or bias ply tires. Mixing tire types will adversely affect road handling and may lead to loss of vehicle control. DO NOT use spare tire on any other wheel or any other tire on the compact spare wheel. DO NOT use snow chains on the compact spare.

WINTER TIRES

Winter tires MUST be installed on all four wheels.

Note. Winter tires must be inflated 3 psi above the cold tire inflation pressures required for the regular ply tires. However do not exceed the maximum tire inflation pressure listed on the tire sidewall.

SNOW CHAINS

Snow chains must NOT be used on the compact spare or on tires with 7Jx16 inch rims.

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

BATTERY LOCATION

Battery is located under a cover in the plenum chamber at the back of the engine compartment. To remove the cover, press the straps, swing up and remove. (Scheme 2)

BATTERY REPLACEMENT

A replacement battery MUST have the same specifications and dimensions as the original equipment battery. Specifications are listed on the battery housing. Make sure the replacement battery is installed correctly and securely.

RADIATOR FAN & CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG)

Note. See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.

Modifications or improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), can adversely affect system performance. DO NOT cover, obstruct or change the steering wheel horn pad in any way, as such action could cause improper function of the system. Use only plain water when cleaning the horn pad. Solvents or cleaners could adversely affect the air bag cover and cause improper deployment of the system.

WARNINGTo avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT.
CAUTIONDisconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONAlways refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific model application and/or coverage limitations.

BASIC NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Everything is covered for 3 years 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first, provided the vehicle is maintained and used in accordance with the instructions for care and use in the Audi Owner's Manual. Warranty begins on the date vehicle is delivered or put in use, whichever occurs first. Covers the cost to all parts and labor needed to repair or adjust any item (except tires) on the vehicle that have been proven defective in material or workmanship under normal use. If a tire is defective, a credit will be given towards the purchase of new tire. The amount of credit is equal to the percentage of original tread depth remaining, multiplied by the suggested retail price of an equivalent new tire.

PERFORATION WARRANTY

Covers any repair or replacement of body-sheet metal parts that is perforated due to corrosion as a result of defects in workmanship or material. Warranty begins on date vehicle is delivered or first put in use, whichever occurs first and lasts for 10 years regardless of mileage.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Manufacturer warrants its emission components in vehicle to be free of defects in material and workmanship and that vehicle is designed, built and equipped to conform at time of sale to all applicable Federal standards for emission control system. Warranty begins on the date vehicle is delivered or first put in use and is effective for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Vehicle is warranted to comply to all applicable emissions standards as judged by an EPA-approved State Inspection and Maintenance Test for 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Listed below are the primary components affecting vehicle's emission control system. The components listed are covered for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty begins on date vehicle is delivered or first put in use, whichever occurs first.

  1. Activated Charcoal Filter
  2. Air Flow Sensor Assembly
  3. Altitude Compensator
  4. Catalytic Converter
  5. Coasting Fuel Cut-Off Valve And Control Unit
  6. Electronic Control Unit And Power Supply Relay
  7. Electronic Feedback Controls, Sensors, Switches And Valves
  8. Evaporative Purge Control Valve
  9. Exhaust Gas Recirculation System
  10. Exhaust Manifold And Gaskets
  11. Exhaust Pipe-To-Catalytic Converter
  12. Expansion Tank
  13. Filler Neck Restrictor
  14. Frequency Valve
  15. Fuel Distributor Assembly And Associated Controls
  16. Fuel Filler Cap And Gaskets
  17. Fuel Injectors, Fuel Injectors Line And Gaskets
  18. Fuel Tank
  19. Gravity Check Valve
  20. Idle Stabilizer And Control Unit
  21. Knock Sensor And Control Unit
  22. Crankcase Breather
  23. Spark Advance Unit And Associated Parts
  24. Turbocharger And Wastegate
  25. Emission-Related Hoses, Gaskets, Clamps And Accessories

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Emission control system in vehicle is warranted to be free of defects in material and workmanship, and that vehicle is designed, built and equipped to conform at time of sales to applicable requirements of the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Warranty period is for 3 years/50,000 miles. Warranty begins on date vehicle is delivered or put in use, whichever occurs first.

EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Warrants vehicle to comply to all applicable emission standards as judged by the EPA and CARB approved emissions test. Should the vehicle fails to comply to the required emissions standards, manufacturer will make any repairs or replacements necessary for the vehicle to pass the required emissions test, provided the vehicle is maintained and used in accordance with the instructions for care and use in the Audi Owner's Manual. The warranty period is 3 years/50,000 miles and begins on date vehicle is delivered or put in use, whichever occurs first.

The following emissions system components are covered under the California Emission Warranties for 7 years or 70,000 miles whichever occurs first. If another part fails due to the failure of a warranted component, both parts will be covered.

  1. Air Flow Sensor Assembly
  2. Catalytic Converter
  3. Electronic Control Unit
  4. Exhaust Manifold
  5. Fuel Distributor Assembly And Associated Controls
  6. Idle Stabilizer Control Unit
  7. Ignition Distributor
  8. Intake Manifold
  9. Intercooler
  10. Knock Sensor Control Unit
  11. Throttle Valve Housing
  12. Turbocharger
  13. Wastegate

FUSE PANEL LOCATIONS

The fuses are arranged in one centralized unit. The fuse/relay box is located behind a cover at the end of the dashboard on the left hand side.

WARNINGAlways disconnect battery ground cable before servicing "high-current fuses. It is recommended that "high-current" fuses be replaced by a qualified technician.
CAUTIONUse extreme care when trouble-shooting electrical system. Relay locations are subject to change and may vary from vehicle to vehicle depending on options. If in doubt, consult an Audi dealer before replacing any relay.

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION
Scheme 3: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION

Note. The electric power windows and the electric seat adjusters are protected with circuit breakers with reset automatically after the circuit overload has been corrected.

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 1 - 5 Amp Heated Washer Jets
  2. 2 - 10 Amp Turn Signals
  3. 3 - 5 Amp Headlight Washer Relay, Illumination For Glove Compartment, Climate control, Automatic Transmission, Instrument Cluster
  4. 4 - 5 Amp License Plate Light
  5. 5 - 10 Amp Instrument Cluster, Seat Heating, Test Connection For Cruise Control, Bulb Monitor, Automatic Transmission Display, Switch Lighting, Mirror Switches & Actuators, Airbag Warining Light, Outside Temperature Indicator, Climate Control, Rear Window Sun Blind, Solar Roof
  6. 6 - 5 Amp Central Locking System
  7. 7 - 10 Amp Anti-Lock Brake System
  8. 8 - 5 Amp Car Telephone
  9. 9 - 10 Amp Heated Mirrors
  10. 10 - 5 Amp Automatic Headlight Adjustment
  11. 11 - 5 Amp Cruise Control (Automatic Transmission)
  12. 12 - 10 Amp On-Board Diagnosis System
  13. 13 - 10 Amp Brake Lights
  14. 14 - 10 Amp Interior Lights, Reading Lights, Anti-theft Alarm System, Vanity Mirror, Seat Memory
  15. 15 - 10 Amp Instrument Cluster, Climate Control, Mirror & Seat Memory
  16. 16 - Not Used
  17. 17 - Not Used
  18. 18 - 10 Amp High Beam, Right
  19. 19 - 10 Amp High Beam, Leftn
  20. 20 - 15 Amp Low Beam, Right
  21. 21 - 15 Amp Low Beam, Left
  22. 22 - 5 Amp Side Marker Light & Tail Light, Right
  23. 23 - 5 Amp Side Marker Light & Tail Light, Left
  24. 24 - 25 Amp Wiper & Washer System
  25. 25 - 30 Amp Blower For Heating (Climate Control), Solar Roof
  26. 26 - 30 Amp Rear Window Defogger, Air Recirculation
  27. 27 - 15 Amp Heated Steering Wheel
  28. 28 - 15 Amp Fuel Pump
  29. 29 - 20 Amp Engine Timing
  30. 30 - 20 Amp Sunroof
  31. 31 - 15 Amp Back-Up Lights, Cruise Control, Automatic Transmission, Diagnosis Connector, Automatic Dimming Inside Mirror
  32. 32 - 20 Amp Engine Timing
  33. 33 - 15 Amp Cigarette Lighter
  34. 34 - 15 Amp Engine Timing
  35. 35 - Not Used
  36. 36 - 15 Amp Front Fog Lights, Rear Fog Light
  37. 37 - 20 Amp Car Phone, Radio
  38. 38 - 15 Amp Luggage Compartment Light, Central Locking System
  39. 39 - 15 Amp Emergency Flasher System
  40. 40 - 25 Amp Horn
  41. 41 - Not Used
  42. 42 - Not Used
  43. 43 - 5 Amp S-Contact (Radio)
  44. 44 - 30 Amp Seat Heating

More articles — Maintenance