Audi Audi S4 2003-2008 4.2L Engine Engine Specifications
Audi Audi S4 2003-2008

Audi Audi S4 2003-2008 4.2L Engine Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 4.2L V8 engine in the 2003-2008 Audi S4. Includes performance metrics, system details, and maintenance guidelines.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the 4.2l-engine specifications for the 2003-2008 Audi S4, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific 4.2l-engine specifications by entering keywords such as 'torque', 'horsepower', or 'compression ratio'.

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

Key Specifications

Displacement

4.2 liters (4172 cc)

Max Power

339 hp @ 7000 rpm

Max Torque

302 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Compression Ratio

11.0:1

Oil Capacity

8.5 liters (9.0 quarts)

Available Specifications

Engine Design and Configuration

Details about the design, layout, and configuration of the 4.2l V8 engine

Engine Layout
  • 90-degree V8 configuration
  • Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads
  • DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) design
  • 32-valve setup (4 valves per cylinder)
  • Chain-driven camshafts
Displacement and Dimensions
  • Displacement: 4.2 liters (4172 cc)
  • Bore: 84.5 mm
  • Stroke: 92.8 mm
  • Compression ratio: 11.0:1
  • Engine weight: ~190 kg (419 lbs)

Note: The lightweight aluminum construction contributes to improved performance and handling.

Performance Specifications

Technical details about the engine's power output, torque, and performance characteristics

Power and Torque
  • Maximum power: 339 hp @ 7000 rpm
  • Maximum torque: 302 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
  • Redline: 7200 rpm
  • Power-to-weight ratio: ~5.5 lb/hp
  • Fuel delivery: Multi-point fuel injection
Performance Metrics
  • 0-60 mph: 5.6 seconds
  • Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
  • Fuel economy: 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • Emissions: Meets Euro 4 standards

Note: Performance figures may vary slightly depending on transmission type and driving conditions.

Cooling and Lubrication Systems

Information about the engine's cooling and lubrication systems

Cooling System
  • Liquid-cooled with a high-capacity radiator
  • Dual electric cooling fans
  • Coolant capacity: 12.5 liters (13.2 quarts)
  • Thermostat opening temperature: 87°C (189°F)
  • Coolant type: G12 or equivalent
Lubrication System
  • Wet sump oil system
  • Oil capacity: 8.5 liters (9.0 quarts) with filter
  • Recommended oil grade: 5W-40 synthetic
  • Oil pressure: 2.0-4.5 bar at 2000 rpm
  • Oil change interval: 10,000 miles or 12 months

Note: Regular oil changes are critical to maintaining engine performance and longevity.

Ignition and Fuel Systems

Details about the ignition and fuel delivery systems

Ignition System
  • Direct ignition system with individual coils
  • Spark plug gap: 0.8 mm
  • Spark plug type: NGK PFR6Q or equivalent
  • Ignition timing: Fully electronic control
  • Recommended replacement interval: 60,000 miles
Fuel System
  • Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
  • Fuel pressure: 4.0 bar (58 psi)
  • Fuel tank capacity: 70 liters (18.5 gallons)
  • Fuel type: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
  • Fuel filter replacement interval: 40,000 miles

Note: Using lower octane fuel may result in reduced performance and efficiency.

Engine Specifications

General

Engine Type
V8
Displacement
4.2L (4163 cc)
Bore
84.5 mm
Stroke
92.8 mm
Compression Ratio
12.0:1
Engine Code
BHF/BNS

Performance

Power
344 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque
302 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Redline
7200 rpm
Fuel System
Multipoint Fuel Injection (FSI)

Fuel Specifications

Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Fuel Tank Capacity
16.6 gallons
Fuel Pressure
4.0 bar (58 psi)
injector Part Number
06E906031A

Cooling System

Coolant Capacity
11.3 liters
Thermostat Opening Temp
87°C (189°F)
Radiator Part Number
8E0121251J
Coolant Type
G12++ (pink)

Lubrication System

Oil Capacity
8.5 liters
Oil Type
VW 502 00 / 505 00
Oil Pressure
2.0-4.5 bar at 2000 rpm
Oil Filter Part Number
06B115562B

Ignition System

Spark Plug Gap
0.8 mm
Spark Plug Torque
30 Nm
Spark Plug Part Number
101905621B
Ignition Coil Part Number
06E905115E

Exhaust System

Exhaust Manifold Material
Stainless Steel
Catalytic Converter Part Number
8E0254805B
Exhaust Pipe Diameter
70 mm

Timing System

Timing Chain Type
Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC)
Timing Chain Tensioner Part Number
079109507A
Camshaft Adjustment Range
42°

Maintenance Intervals

Oil Change
10000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plugs
60000 miles
Timing Chain Inspection
100000 miles
Coolant Flush
50000 miles or 5 years

Diagnostic Specifications

Engine Control Unit Part Number
8E0907551A
Obd2 Protocol
ISO 15765-4 CAN
Common Fault Codes
  • P0300
  • P0420
  • P0171
Diagnostic Tool
VAS 5054A

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 4.2L engine

10000
12
  • Oil and filter change
  • Inspect brake system
  • Check coolant level

Use only VW 502 00 / 505 00 certified oil

60000
60
  • Replace spark plugs
  • Inspect timing chain
  • Inspect air filter

Timing chain inspection is critical for longevity

100000
120
  • Inspect and replace timing chain if necessary
  • Replace coolant
  • Inspect all hoses and belts

Timing chain replacement may be required if noise is present

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the horsepower and torque output of the 4.2L V8 engine in the 2003-2008 Audi S4?

The 4.2L V8 engine in the 2003-2008 Audi S4 produces 340 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 302 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM. This naturally aspirated engine features a 90-degree V-angle and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design.

Q2

What is the recommended oil type and capacity for the 4.2L V8 engine?

The 4.2L V8 engine requires fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or 505 00 specifications. The oil capacity is approximately 8.5 liters (9 quarts) with a filter change. Always use Audi-approved oil to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Q3

What is the timing system configuration for the 4.2L V8 engine?

The 4.2L V8 engine uses a timing chain system with four chains: two primary chains and two secondary chains. The timing chains are located at the rear of the engine, requiring significant disassembly for service. Regular maintenance is critical to prevent timing chain tensioner failure.

Q4

What is the compression ratio of the 4.2L V8 engine?

The 4.2L V8 engine has a compression ratio of 11.0:1, which contributes to its high-performance output and efficiency. This ratio is optimized for premium unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher.

Q5

What are common issues with the 4.2L V8 engine in the Audi S4?

Common issues include timing chain tensioner failure, carbon buildup on intake valves, and oil consumption due to worn piston rings. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and carbon cleaning, is essential to mitigate these problems.

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 4.2L V8 Engine Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 4.2L V8 engine, covering maintenance, repair procedures, and technical specifications.

Timing Chain Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing the timing chains and tensioners on the 4.2L V8 engine, including tools and safety precautions.

Carbon Cleaning Procedure

Coming Soon

Detailed instructions for performing a carbon cleaning service on the 4.2L V8 engine to restore performance and reduce emissions.

Oil Change and Maintenance Schedule

Coming Soon

Recommended oil change intervals and maintenance tasks for the 4.2L V8 engine to ensure reliability and longevity.

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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