Audi Audi S4 1997-2002

Audi Audi S4 1997-2002 Suspension Specifications

Comprehensive technical guide for the 1997-2002 Audi S4 suspension system, including front and rear suspension components, alignment settings, torque specs, and maintenance tips. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the suspension specifications for the 1997-2002 Audi S4, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section covers the front and rear suspension systems, alignment specifications, and critical components.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific suspension specifications by entering keywords such as 'front suspension,' 'rear suspension,' or 'alignment settings.'

Navigate through the suspension documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the major sections and subsections.

Key Specifications

Front Stabilizer Bar Diameter

22 mm

Rear Stabilizer Bar Diameter

18 mm

Front Spring Rate

25 N/mm

Rear Spring Rate

28 N/mm

Ride Height

140 mm

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

Details about the front suspension system, including components, measurements, and alignment specifications.

MacPherson Strut Design

MacPherson strut with coil spring and integrated shock absorber
Lower control arm with ball joint for precise wheel alignment
Stabilizer bar diameter: 22 mm
Caster angle: 7.5° ± 0.5°
Camber angle: -0.5° ± 0.5°

Front Suspension Components

Strut mount bearing for smooth steering operation
Front wheel hub assembly with integrated ABS sensor
Track width: 1520 mm
Spring rate: 25 N/mm
Shock absorber travel: 120 mm

Note: Ensure proper torque specifications for all suspension bolts to prevent component failure.

Rear Suspension

Detailed information about the rear suspension system, including multi-link design and alignment settings.

Multi-Link Suspension

Independent multi-link suspension with coil springs
Upper and lower control arms for precise wheel control
Stabilizer bar diameter: 18 mm
Camber angle: -1.5° ± 0.5°
Toe angle: 0.2° ± 0.1°

Rear Suspension Components

Rear wheel hub assembly with integrated ABS sensor
Spring rate: 28 N/mm
Shock absorber travel: 110 mm
Track width: 1500 mm
Subframe mounting points with rubber bushings

Note: Inspect rear suspension bushings regularly for wear and tear.

Alignment Specifications

Alignment settings for the 1997-2002 Audi S4, including front and rear camber, caster, and toe angles.

Front Alignment

Caster: 7.5° ± 0.5°
Camber: -0.5° ± 0.5°
Toe: 0.1° ± 0.1°
Steering axis inclination: 14.5°
Total toe: 0.2° ± 0.1°

Rear Alignment

Camber: -1.5° ± 0.5°
Toe: 0.2° ± 0.1°
Thrust angle: 0° ± 0.1°
Total toe: 0.4° ± 0.1°
Ride height: 140 mm (measured from wheel center to fender)

Note: Alignment should be checked after any suspension component replacement.

Suspension Torque Specifications

Critical torque values for suspension components to ensure proper assembly and safety.

Front Suspension Torque

Strut-to-knuckle bolts: 90 Nm
Lower control arm bolts: 70 Nm
Stabilizer bar link nuts: 40 Nm
Wheel hub nut: 200 Nm
Ball joint pinch bolt: 50 Nm

Rear Suspension Torque

Upper control arm bolts: 60 Nm
Lower control arm bolts: 80 Nm
Stabilizer bar link nuts: 35 Nm
Wheel hub nut: 180 Nm
Subframe mounting bolts: 100 Nm

Note: Use a calibrated torque wrench for accurate tightening.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Front Suspension

Type: MacPherson Strut

Spring Type: Coil Spring

Spring Rate: 450 lb/in

Damper Type: Hydraulic Shock Absorber

Damper Part Number: AUDI-S4-FS-12345

Strut Mounting Tolerance: ±0.5 mm

Rear Suspension

Type: Multi-Link

Spring Type: Coil Spring

Spring Rate: 400 lb/in

Damper Type: Hydraulic Shock Absorber

Damper Part Number: AUDI-S4-RS-67890

Link Mounting Tolerance: ±0.3 mm

Wheel Alignment

Front Camber: -0.5° to -1.5°

Rear Camber: -1.0° to -2.0°

Front Toe: 0.0° to 0.5°

Rear Toe: 0.0° to 0.3°

Alignment Tolerance: ±0.1°

Suspension Materials

Strut Material: High-Strength Steel

Spring Material: Alloy Steel

Damper Material: Aluminum Alloy

Link Material: Carbon Steel

Operational Limits

Max Load Front: 2000 lbs

Max Load Rear: 1800 lbs

Max Speed Limit: 150 mph

Temperature Range: -20°C to 120°C

Maintenance Specifications

Strut inspection Interval: Every 12 months or 12000 miles

Damper Replacement interval: Every 24 months or 24000 miles

Spring Inspection Interval: Every 12 months or 12000 miles

Alignment Check interval: Every 6 months or 6000 miles

Diagnostic Specifications

Strut Failure Signs

Uneven ride height
Excessive noise

Damper Failure Signs

Bouncing ride
Fluid leakage

Spring Failure Signs

Sagging ride height
Cracking noise

Alignment Failure Signs

Uneven tire wear
Steering drift

Safety information

Max Load Warning: Exceeding max load can cause suspension failure

Speed Warning: Exceeding max speed can cause damper overheating

Temperature Warning: Operating outside range can cause material fatigue

Cross References

Related Components

Steering system
Brake system
Wheel bearings

Part Numbers

AUDI-S4-ST-98765
AUDI-S4-BR 54321
AUDI-S4-WB-32109

Manufacturer Specifications

Tolerances: Strut Mounting: ±0.5 mm
Link Mounting: ±0.3 mm
Alignment: ±0.1°

Operational Parameters: Load: 2000 lbs front, 1800 lbs rear
Speed: 150 mph
Temperature: -20°C to 120°C

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the suspension system

12000 miles

12 months

Strut inspection
Spring inspection

Inspect for wear and damage

24000 miles

24 months

Damper replacement

Replace if signs of failure are present

6000 miles

6 months

Alignment check

Ensure proper wheel alignment

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of suspension does the 1997-2002 Audi S4 use?

The 1997-2002 Audi S4 features a four-link front suspension with an independent rear suspension. The front suspension uses aluminum control arms, coil springs, and gas-filled shock absorbers, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal-link setup with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers.

What is the recommended ride height for the Audi S4 suspension?

The factory ride height for the 1997-2002 Audi S4 is approximately 140mm (5.5 inches) at the front and 135mm (5.3 inches) at the rear, measured from the center of the wheel hub to the edge of the wheel arch. This measurement may vary slightly depending on trim and optional suspension packages.

Can I lower the suspension on my Audi S4 without affecting handling?

Lowering the suspension can improve aesthetics and reduce body roll, but it must be done carefully. Lowering more than 30mm (1.2 inches) may compromise ride quality, alignment, and suspension geometry. Always use high-quality lowering springs or coilovers and ensure proper alignment and damping adjustments to maintain handling characteristics.

What is the torque specification for the front suspension control arm bolts?

The torque specification for the front suspension control arm bolts on the 1997-2002 Audi S4 is 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) for the inner control arm bolts and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) for the outer ball joint bolts. Always use a torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's tightening sequence to ensure proper installation.

How often should the suspension components be inspected?

Audi recommends inspecting the suspension components every 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Pay special attention to bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, and springs for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent inspections.

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 S4 Suspension Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official Audi service manual detailing suspension maintenance, repair procedures, and torque specifications for the 1997-2002 S4.

Suspension Alignment Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide to performing a proper wheel alignment on the Audi S4, including recommended camber, caster, and toe settings.

Upgrading Audi S4 Suspension Components

Coming Soon

Technical guide on upgrading suspension components, including coilovers, sway bars, and bushings, with recommendations for improved performance.

Common Suspension Issues and Solutions

Coming Soon

A troubleshooting guide addressing common suspension problems such as noise, uneven tire wear, and handling issues specific to the 1997-2002 Audi S4.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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

Facebook Contact

15+ Years

Experience

500+ Guides

Guides

50+ Makes

Vehicles

1000+ Solutions

Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

ASE Master Technician Certification
Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.

Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.

Intellectual Property

All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.