Audi Audi A8 2010-2017 Electrical Specifications
Audi Audi A8 2010-2017

Audi Audi A8 2010-2017 Electrical Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the electrical system of the 2010-2017 Audi A8, including wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostic procedures. Essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Electrical Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the electrical specifications for the 2010-2017 Audi A8. It includes detailed information on the electrical systems, components, and key specifications. Use this guide to understand the electrical architecture, diagnose issues, and perform maintenance. Navigate through the sections to find specific details, and use the search functionality to quickly locate information.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search bar at the top of the document. Enter keywords such as 'battery voltage', 'alternator capacity', or 'fuse box location' to find relevant details.

Navigate through the document by selecting sections from the table of contents. Each section provides detailed subsections and technical specifications. Use the arrows or scroll to move between pages.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

12V

Alternator Capacity

160A

Infotainment Display Size

7 inches

Audio System Power

1,400W

CAN Bus Speed

500kbps

Available Specifications

Battery and Charging System

This section provides specifications and details about the battery, alternator, and charging system. It includes voltage, capacity, and maintenance recommendations.

Battery Specifications
  • Battery Type: Lead-Acid (Maintenance-Free)
  • Nominal Voltage: 12V
  • Capacity: 80Ah
  • Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 800A
  • Battery Weight: Approximately 20kg
  • Warranty: Typically 5 years or 50,000 miles
Charging System
  • Alternator Type: Bosch 160A
  • Alternator Voltage Regulation: 14.4V ± 0.2V
  • Charging Current: Up to 120A
  • Overvoltage Protection: Yes
  • Cooling: Internally ventilated
  • Lifespan: Approximately 80,000 miles

Electrical Power Distribution

This section details the electrical power distribution system, including fuses, relays, and circuit protection. It provides locations and specifications for key components.

Fuse Box Locations
  • Driver-Side Fuse Box: Located under the dashboard
  • Passenger-Side Fuse Box: Located in the glove compartment
  • Rear Fuse Box: Located in the trunk, on the right side
  • Engine Compartment Fuse Box: Located on the driver-side of the engine bay
Fuse Ratings
  • Main Fuse: 80A
  • Airbag Fuse: 10A
  • ABS Fuse: 15A
  • Lighting Fuse: 10A
  • Power Seat Fuse: 20A

Lighting System

This section covers the specifications and details of the lighting system, including headlights, taillights, and interior lighting.

Exterior Lighting
  • Headlight Type: Bi-Xenon with LED DRL
  • Headlight Power Consumption: 35W per bulb
  • Taillight Type: LED
  • Fog Light Power: 55W
  • Turn Signal Power: 21W
  • License Plate Light: 5W
Interior Lighting
  • Dashboard Lighting: LED
  • Door Puddle Lights: LED
  • Footwell Lighting: LED
  • Trunk Light: 10W
  • Ambient Lighting: RGB LED

Infotainment and Electronics

This section provides specifications for the infotainment system, including display, audio, and connectivity features.

Infotainment System
  • Display Type: High-resolution 7-inch touchscreen
  • Resolution: 800x480 pixels
  • Processor: Dual-core
  • Memory: 512MB RAM
  • Storage: 20GB hard drive
  • Operating System: Audi MMI
Audio System
  • Speaker Configuration: 14 speakers
  • Amplifier Power: 1,400W
  • Subwoofer Size: 200mm
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 90dB
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, and AUX

Wiring and Connectivity

This section details the wiring and connectivity specifications, including CAN bus, wiring harness, and connector types.

CAN Bus Specifications
  • CAN Bus Speed: 500kbps
  • Nodes: 50+ ECUs
  • Protocol: ISO 11898
  • Wiring: Twisted pair
  • Termination: 120Ω resistors
  • Fault Tolerance: Yes
Connectors and Wiring
  • Wiring Material: Copper core with PVC insulation
  • Connector Types: AMP, Tyco, and JST
  • Wiring Harness Weight: Approximately 50kg
  • Sealing: IP67 rated connectors
  • Color Coding: Standard automotive colors
  • Diagnostic Ports: OBD-II and CAN

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Luxury Sedan Electrical System
Configuration
Advanced Driver-Assistance and Comfort Systems
Platform
Audi D4 Platform
Voltage
12V Electrical System
Location
Distributed Architecture with Central ECU
Manufacturer
Audi AG

Dimensions

Battery Capacity
90Ah (Ampere-hour)
Alternator Output
150A (Alternator Current)
Wiring Harness Length
Approx. 3,600 feet (1,097 meters)
Fuse Box Dimensions
Length: 12.6 inches (320 mm), Width: 6.3 inches (160 mm)
Relay Module Size
Length: 6 inches (152 mm), Width: 4 inches (102 mm)
Ecu Dimensions
Length: 8 inches (203 mm), Width: 5 inches (127 mm)
System Weight
Approx. 150 lbs (68 kg)

Materials

Wiring Harness
Copper core with cross-linked polyethylene insulation
Battery
Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) Technology
Fuse Box
High-temperature resistant plastic with silver-plated contacts
Relay Module
Durable polycarbonate housing with gold-plated terminals
Ecu Casing
Aluminum alloy with epoxy coating

Features

Electrical Power Distribution
  • Dual Battery System
  • Smart Power Management
  • Redundant Power Supply
  • Automatic Circuit Breakers
Charging System
  • High-Efficiency Alternator
  • Regenerative Braking System
  • Smart Charging Algorithm
  • Overcharge Protection
Electrical Distribution
  • CAN (Controller Area Network) Bus
  • LIN (Local Interconnect Network) Bus
  • Distributed Control Units
  • Central Gateway Module
Control Systems
  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Predictive Maintenance System
Comfort And Convenience
  • Ambient Interior Lighting
  • Power Adjustable Seats
  • Climate Control System
  • Heated and Ventilated Seats
Driver Assistance
  • Adaptive Headlights
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • 360-Degree Camera System

Safety Features

Protection Systems
  • Overvoltage Protection
  • Short Circuit Protection
  • Surge Protection
  • Battery Isolation Relay
Monitoring Systems
  • Battery State of Charge Monitor
  • Alternator Performance Monitor
  • Voltage Stability Monitor
  • CAN Bus Health Monitor
Emergency Features
  • Emergency Power Supply
  • Automatic Door Unlock in Crash
  • Interior Lighting in Emergency
  • Emergency Call System (eCall)

Comfort Features

interior Lighting
  • LED Ambient Lighting
  • Customizable Light Colors
  • Door Pocket Lighting
  • Footwell Lighting
Climate Control
  • 4-Zone Automatic Climate Control
  • Air Quality Sensor
  • Pollutant-Filtering System
  • Heated Windshield
infotainment
  • MMI (Multi-Media Interface) System
  • High-Resolution Display
  • Voice Command System
  • Wireless Connectivity
Seating
  • Heated and Ventilated Seats
  • Massage Function
  • Power Lumbar Adjustment
  • Memory Settings
Convenience
  • Keyless Entry and Start
  • Remote Start System
  • Power Closing Doors
  • Power Rear Sunshade

Accessories

Charging Accessories
  • Battery Charger
  • Jump Start Kit
  • USB Charging Ports
  • 12V Power Outlet
Connectivity
  • Bluetooth Module
  • Wi-Fi Hotspot
  • AUX Input
  • HDMI Port
Tools
  • Multimeter
  • Fuse Set
  • Relay Tester
  • Battery Tester

Maintenance

Service interval
  • Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)
  • Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
  • Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
  • Every 60,000 miles (97,000 km)
Maintenance Notes
  • Check battery terminals for corrosion
  • Inspect wiring harness for damage
  • Replace air filter for climate control
  • Update software for control units
  • Test alternator charging voltage

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 48,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: Electrical System Components
Battery Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Battery and Charging System
Electrical Components
Miles: 100,000 miles
Years: 10 years
Coverage: High-Voltage Electrical Components
Extended Warranty
Miles: Unlimited miles
Years: 12 years
Coverage: Corrosion Perforation

Production Details

Manufacturer info
Name: Audi AG
Location: Ingolstadt, Germany
Established: 1909
Manufacturing Process
  • Robotic Welding
  • Laser Cutting
  • Automated Assembly Lines
  • Manual Quality Inspection
Quality Control
inspection Points: 150
Test Drives: Pre-delivery test drive
Certifications: ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 14001
Sustainability Practices
  • Recyclable Materials
  • Energy-Efficient Production
  • Reduced Emissions
  • Water Conservation
Production Metrics
Units Per Year: Approx. 40,000 units
Cycle Time: 20 hours per unit
Efficiency: 95% production efficiency

Service Information for Electrical System Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to the electrical system of the 2010-2017 Audi A8

5,000 miles
6 months
  • Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
  • Check alternator belt condition
  • Test battery voltage and charging system
  • Inspect wiring harness for damage
  • Update software for control units

Essential for maintaining system reliability and performance

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Replace air filter for climate control
  • Inspect fuses and relays
  • Check CAN bus communication
  • Test electronic stability control system
  • Inspect power steering system

Critical for ensuring safety systems functionality

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Inspect and clean electrical connectors
  • Check adaptive cruise control sensors
  • Test lane departure warning system
  • Inspect 360-degree camera system
  • Replace wiper blades and washer fluid

Important for maintaining advanced driver-assistance systems

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace battery if necessary
  • Inspect and replace alternator if needed
  • Check and replace spark plugs
  • Inspect and clean throttle body
  • Perform full system diagnostic check

Major service interval for long-term reliability

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the voltage of the battery in the 2010-2017 Audi A8?

The 2010-2017 Audi A8 is equipped with a 12-volt battery system. The battery capacity typically ranges from 70 Ah to 110 Ah, depending on the model and optional equipment.

Q2

What is the alternator output for the Audi A8?

The alternator output for the 2010-2017 Audi A8 varies by engine type and configuration. Most models feature an alternator with an output of 140 A to 180 A, ensuring sufficient power for the vehicle's electrical systems.

Q3

How do I reset the electrical system after replacing the battery?

After replacing the battery, the electrical system must be reset using a diagnostic tool such as VCDS (VAG-COM) or Audi's official diagnostic software. This ensures proper communication between the battery control module and the vehicle's onboard systems.

Q4

What is the fuse rating for the Audi A8's headlights?

The fuse rating for the headlights in the 2010-2017 Audi A8 is typically 15 A for halogen headlights and 20 A for LED or xenon headlights. Always refer to the fuse diagram in the owner's manual for specific details.

Q5

Can I upgrade the electrical system for additional accessories?

Upgrading the electrical system for additional accessories is possible but requires careful planning. Ensure the alternator and battery can handle the increased load, and use a professional installer to avoid overloading the system or 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 A8 Electrical System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed guide covering the electrical system architecture, including wiring diagrams and component locations.

Battery Replacement and Maintenance

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing and maintaining the battery in the Audi A8, including coding and registration procedures.

Fuse Box Diagrams and Specifications

Coming Soon

Comprehensive fuse box diagrams and specifications for all 2010-2017 Audi A8 models.

Alternator Testing and Troubleshooting

Coming Soon

Guide to testing and troubleshooting the alternator, including common issues and solutions.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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