Audi Audi A3 2004-2013 Drivetrain Specifications
Audi Audi A3 2004-2013

Audi Audi A3 2004-2013 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 2004-2013 Audi A3. Includes engine, transmission, differential, and drive shaft details, along with maintenance and repair guidelines.

Updated

Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 2004-2013 Audi A3. It covers key components such as engines, transmissions, drivetrain systems, and suspension. Use this guide to understand the technical details, compare models, and make informed decisions for maintenance or upgrades. Navigate through the sections to find specific information or use the search functionality to quickly locate details.

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Key Specifications

Top Speed

Up to 155 mph

0-60 mph

7.0-10.9 seconds

Fuel Capacity

55 liters

Turning Circle

10.9 meters

Curb Weight

1,150-1,400 kg

Available Specifications

Engine Specifications

This section details the engine options available for the 2004-2013 Audi A3, including performance metrics, fuel systems, and emissions standards.

Engine Types
  • 1.6L Inline-4 Petrol (90-102 HP)
  • 1.8L Inline-4 Petrol (120-160 HP)
  • 2.0L Inline-4 Petrol (150-200 HP)
  • 2.0L Inline-4 TDI Diesel (140-170 HP)
  • 3.2L V6 Petrol (250 HP)
  • Available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions
Performance Metrics
  • 0-60 mph: 7.0-10.9 seconds
  • Top speed: 124-155 mph
  • Torque: 140-350 Nm
  • Fuel efficiency: 28-43 mpg combined
  • Emissions: Euro 4 and Euro 5 compliant

Transmission Specifications

This section covers the transmission options available for the 2004-2013 Audi A3, including manual, automatic, and dual-clutch transmissions.

Manual Transmission
  • 5-speed manual (standard on most models)
  • 6-speed manual (available on higher trims)
  • Gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency and performance
  • Synchromesh technology for smooth shifting
Automatic Transmission
  • 6-speed Tiptronic automatic
  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Dynamic Shift Program (DSP) for adaptive shifting
  • Manual shift mode available on select models

Drivetrain Systems

This section explains the drivetrain systems available for the 2004-2013 Audi A3, including quattro all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive configurations.

quattro All-Wheel Drive
  • Permanent all-wheel drive system
  • Symmetrical torque distribution
  • Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) for improved traction
  • Available on higher trims and performance models
Front-Wheel Drive
  • Standard on base models
  • Lightweight and fuel-efficient design
  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for stability control
  • Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) for improved acceleration

Suspension and Steering

This section details the suspension and steering systems of the 2004-2013 Audi A3, including design, components, and features.

Suspension
  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • Optional Sport Suspension for reduced ride height
  • Adaptive Suspension (available on select models)
  • Anti-roll bars for improved handling
Steering
  • Rack-and-pinion steering
  • Power-assisted steering
  • Optional Servotronic speed-sensitive steering
  • Steering wheel adjustable for tilt and reach
  • Optional paddle shifters for automatic models

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD)
Configuration
Transverse engine layout with longitudinal transmission
Platform
Volkswagen Group A platform (PQ34)
Material
Aluminum alloy and high-strength steel
Location
Front-engine, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

Dimensions

Driveshaft Length
102.36 in (2600 mm)
Axle Ratio
3.94:1 (FWD models)
Cv Joint Diameter
4.72 in (120 mm)
Differential Case Size
10.24 in (260 mm) width, 7.87 in (200 mm) height
Half Shaft Diameter
1.18 in (30 mm)
Transfer Case Length
13.78 in (350 mm)
Center Bearing Size
3.54 in (90 mm)

Materials

Driveshaft
High-strength steel with heat treatment
Differential Housing
Cast iron with nodular graphite
Axle Shafts
Forged steel alloy
Cv Joints
Chrome-moly steel with grease lubrication
Transfer Case
Aluminum alloy (AWD models)

Features

Drivetrain Types
  • Front-wheel drive (FWD)
  • Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD)
  • Manual transmission
  • Automatic transmission
  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Transmission Features
  • 6-speed manual
  • 6-speed automatic (Tiptronic)
  • 7-speed dual-clutch (DSG)
  • CVT with 7 simulated gears
Drivetrain Technologies
  • Haldex Generation 4 AWD coupling
  • Torque vectoring (Quattro models)
  • Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
  • Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
Engine Features
  • Direct fuel injection (FSI)
  • Turbocharged Diesel (TDI)
  • Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
  • Common-rail diesel injection
Suspension Features
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • McPherson strut front suspension
  • Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)
  • Adaptive Damper Control (ADC)

Safety Features

Traction Control
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
  • Engine Drag Torque Control
Braking System
  • Dual-circuit brake system
  • Hydraulic brake assist
  • Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Structural integrity
  • Reinforced front subframe
  • High-strength steel components
  • Crash-optimized transmission mounting
Awd Safety
  • Symmetrical torque distribution
  • Haldex coupling with electronic control
  • Torque vectoring in Quattro models

Comfort Features

Suspension Comfort
  • Adaptive suspension modes
  • Ride height adjustment
  • Frequency-selective damping
Noise Reduction
  • Acoustic insulation
  • Sound-dampening materials
  • Balanced driveshaft design
Vibration Control
  • Hydraulic bushings
  • Vibration dampening mounts
  • Isolated subframe
Convenience Features
  • Automatic transmission with manual mode
  • Paddle shifters (optional)
  • Hill-start assist
  • Gearshift lock with electronic release

Accessories

Performance Accessories
  • Limited-slip differential (optional)
  • High-performance exhaust system
  • Lightweight alloy driveshaft
  • Drivetrain protection plate
Convenience Accessories
  • Transmission cooler
  • Driveshaft center bearing upgrade
  • Axle-back exhaust system
  • Suspension lowering kit
Maintenance Accessories
  • Drivetrain service kit
  • Transmission fluid change kit
  • CV joint grease
  • Driveshaft alignment tool

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months
Service Items
  • Transmission fluid check and top-up
  • Driveshaft and CV joint inspection
  • Differential oil change
  • Axle shaft boot inspection
  • Suspension bushing check
  • Brake system inspection
Maintenance Notes
Service intervals may vary based on driving conditions. Consult owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper coverage
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 100,000 miles
Years: 10 years
Coverage: Drivetrain components including engine, transmission, driveshaft, and differentials
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: Unlimited miles
Years: 12 years
Coverage: Perforation of sheet metal due to corrosion
Maintenance Warranty
Miles: 25,000 miles
Years: 2 years
Coverage: Free scheduled maintenance

Production Details

Manufacturer info
Name: Audi AG
Location: Ingolstadt, Germany
Plant: Audi Hungaria Motor Kft., Győr, Hungary
Manufacturing Process
  • Robotized welding
  • Laser cutting and machining
  • Heat treatment of critical components
  • Final assembly with torque-to-yield fasteners
Quality Control
inspection: End-of-line testing including torque and noise checks
Certification: ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 certified
Testing: Dynamic and static testing of drivetrain components
Sustainability Practices
  • Recyclable materials used in production
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • Minimized waste and emissions
  • Use of bio-degradable lubricants
Production Metrics
Annual Output: Over 200,000 units per year
Cycle Time: Less than 20 hours per unit
Defect Rate: Less than 1% defect rate
Supplier Quality: Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers with ISO certification

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to drivetrain

5,000 miles
6 months
  • Driveshaft and CV joint inspection
  • Transmission fluid level check
  • Differential oil level check
  • Axle shaft boot inspection
  • Suspension bushing check
  • Brake system inspection

Normal driving conditions. Apply grease to CV joints if necessary.

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Transmission fluid change
  • Differential oil change
  • CV joint grease replacement
  • Axle shaft boot inspection
  • Driveshaft balancing check
  • Suspension alignment check

Replace transmission fluid filter if equipped. Check for any unusual noises or vibrations.

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Major drivetrain inspection
  • Driveshaft center bearing replacement
  • Axle shaft CV joint replacement
  • Differential mounting replacement
  • Transmission mounts replacement
  • Suspension components check

Inspect for any wear or damage. Replace components as needed. Special tools required for some procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2004-2013 Audi A3 use?

The 2004-2013 Audi A3 is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, depending on the model and trim. The quattro system uses a Haldex clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles.

Q2

What is the torque capacity of the 6-speed manual transmission in the Audi A3?

The 6-speed manual transmission in the Audi A3 has a torque capacity of up to 280 Nm (206 lb-ft), making it suitable for the 2.0 TFSI and TDI engines.

Q3

How often should the Haldex clutch fluid be replaced in the quattro system?

Audi recommends replacing the Haldex clutch fluid every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 3 years, whichever comes first, to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the all-wheel drive system.

Q4

What is the gear ratio of the 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission?

The 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission in the Audi A3 has the following gear ratios: 1st gear - 3.46, 2nd gear - 2.15, 3rd gear - 1.46, 4th gear - 1.08, 5th gear - 0.85, 6th gear - 0.69, with a final drive ratio of 4.18.

Q5

Can the Audi A3 drivetrain handle aftermarket performance upgrades?

While the Audi A3 drivetrain is robust, significant performance upgrades (e.g., increased horsepower or torque) may require additional modifications to the transmission, clutch, or Haldex system. Always consult a professional to ensure compatibility and avoid voiding the warranty.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi A3 Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the drivetrain components, including transmission fluid changes, Haldex service, and common troubleshooting tips.

Haldex System Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service procedures for the Haldex all-wheel drive system, including fluid replacement and clutch calibration.

Audi A3 Transmission Specifications

Coming Soon

Technical specifications for the 6-speed manual and S tronic dual-clutch transmissions, including gear ratios and torque capacities.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive Overview

Coming Soon

An in-depth explanation of the quattro all-wheel drive system, its operation, and benefits for the Audi A3.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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