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B5 Sedan · Avant

Audi A4 · Sedan · Avant · 1994–2001

The B5 S4 twin-turbo V6 is the enthusiast benchmark of the era.

Production run

1994–2001

Engines covered

4

Avg. part price

—

19902026

Interactive systems map

Inspect the B5

Tap a hotspot to inspect that system

Systems map

Where it goes wrong

Each numbered hotspot counts the documented failure points in that area. Select one to see the specifics for this chassis and engine.

Failure points by system

Engine6

Cooling1

Fuel1

Documented issues per engine

5

1.8T

4

V6 2.8

4

AHA

4

1.9 TDI

Known weak points

What breaks on the B5

Timing belt interval is criticalDiagnose →Oil sludge on neglected 1.8T (small oil pickup)Diagnose →Timing beltDiagnose →Head gasket at very high mileageDiagnose →Timing belt and tensionerDiagnose →Coolant seepage at the blockDiagnose →PD injector seals and loomDiagnose →Cam wearDiagnose →

Guides & playbooks

B5 playbooks

Maintenance scheduleGive me a mileage-based maintenance schedule for a Audi A4 B5, including the items the factory schedule skips.Buyer's inspectionI'm inspecting a used Audi A4 B5. What exactly should I check, test drive and look for underneath?Build planPlan a staged performance build for a Audi A4 B5 that stays reliable as a daily driver.Fault code lookupI have a fault code on my Audi A4 B5. Walk me through what it means and how to confirm the cause.

Fits your B5

Parts & tools

Full catalog & export

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