2007 AUDI R8 handbrake

Contents 2ContentsNotes on this Owner's
Manual
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and displays
. . . . . . . . . .
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instruments and
warning/indicator lamps
. . . . . . .
Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning and indicator lamps . . . . .
Driver information system
. . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service interval display . . . . . . . . . .
On-board computer . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lap timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speed warning function . . . . . . . . .
Notes and symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Doors and windows
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote control keys . . . . . . . . . . . .
Central locking system . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-theft alarm system . . . . . . . . . .
Electric windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights and vision
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clear vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windscreen wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear-view mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Digital compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seats and storage
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manually adjustable front seats . .
Electrically adjustable front seats
Bucket seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cup holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ashtray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cigarette lighter and electrical
socket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage compartments . . . . . . . . .
Heating and cooling
. . . . . . . . . . .
Air conditioner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear window heating . . . . . . . . .
Seat heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Switching off the engine . . . . . . . .
Handbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control system . . . . . . . . . .
Audi magnetic ride . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic gearbox
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Kick-down feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Launch control programme . . . . . .
Steering wheel with paddle levers
Backup programme . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HomeLink
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Universal transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safe driving
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Correct sitting positions . . . . . . . . .
Pedal area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stowing luggage safely . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Why is it so important to use seat
belts? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forces acting in a collision . . . . . .
How to wear seat belts properly .
Belt tensioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description of airbag system . . . .
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deactivating the airbags . . . . . . . . 5
7
9
9
10
10
15
20
20
21
22
24
27
31
33
40
40
42
47
48
5052
52
57
58
59
63
65
67
67
68
70
71
72
72
72
73
75
75
79
80
81
81
81
82
83
83
85
86
88
90
90
91
92
9293
93
94
95
95
101
102
102
104
107
108
109
109
110
112
114
115
115
116
118
120
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 2 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Controls and displays9
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Controls and displaysOverview
Electric windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Door handle
Central locking switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric adjuster for exterior mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Switches for
−Unlocking the luggage lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Unlocking the fuel tank flap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Light switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lever for turn signals and main beam headlights . . . .
Steering wheel with:
−Horn
−Driver's airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Controls for audio, telephone and speech dialogue
system
−Paddle levers for manual gearshift (R tronic) . . . . . .
Instrument cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Levers and switches for:
−Windscreen wipers and washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−On-board computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Menu display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Lap timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Speed warning function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Navigation system
Lockable glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front passenger's airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Switch for heated rear window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air conditioner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gear lever/selector lever for:
−Manual gearbox
−R tronic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls for:
−Audi magnetic ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) . . . . . . . . . . .
−Hazard warning lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Automatic rear spoiler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
−Audi parking system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ashtray, cigarette lighter/socket
Handbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustable steering column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lever for cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine lid lock release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Note
•
Separate operating instructions are enclosed if the vehicle is
equipped with a factory-fitted navigation system.
•
The arrangement of switches and controls on right-hand drive
models* may be slightly different from the layout shown in
⇒page 8, fig. 1. However, the symbols used to identify the controls
are the same.
A1
50
A2A3
45
A4
64
A5
47
152
A6
77
A7
52
A8
56
A9
116
93
A10
10
A11
59
22
24
27
31
A12A13
73
A14
116
A15
79
A16
75
A17
90
A18
88
132
56
134
85
A19A20
83
A21
81
A22
81
A23
86
A24
55
A25
155
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 9 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Instruments and warning/indicator lamps 16
Note•
Yellow symbols are accompanied by one warning chime. The
function indicated should be checked as soon as possible.
•
A red symbol is accompanied by three warning chimes. The
symbol will keep flashing until the fault is corrected.
Applies to vehicles: with Audi magnetic rideAudi magnetic ride

This warning lamp monitors the damping effect of the
shock absorbers.The warning lamp
 lights up when the ignition is switched on.
Note
If the warning lamp lights up while the vehicle is moving, this indi-
cates a vehicle damping malfunction. The suspension should be
checked immediately by a qualified workshop.Applies to vehicles: with tyre pressure monitoring systemTyre pressure monitoring system

Th e t y re p re s s u re s h o u l d b e c o rre c t e d as s o o n as p o s s i b l e
if it is too low.If the
 symbol appears, the tyre pressure on at least one
of the wheels is too low.–Stop the vehicle.
– Check the tyre(s).
– Adjust the tyre pressure ⇒page 167.
For more detailed information on the tyre pressure monitoring
system please refer to ⇒page 172.Engine management

This warning lamp monitors the engine management
system.The
 warning lamp (Electronic Power Control) lights up when the
ignition is switched on to show that the lamp is working properly.Note
If the warning lamp lights up while the vehicle is moving, this indi-
cates a fault in the engine management system. The engine should
be serviced by a qualified workshop without delay.Electronic stabilisation program (ESP)

This warning lamp monitors the electronic stabilisation
program.The warning lamp
 has the following functions:
•
It flashes when the ESP or traction control system (ASR) inter-
venes while the vehicle is in motion.
•
It lights up when the ignition is switched on and should go out
again after about 2 seconds. This signals that the lamp is working
properly.
•
It will light up continuously if there is a malfunction in the ESP.
•
It will light up continuously if the ESP is switched off.

Seat belt warning lamp
⇒page 18

Fault in brake system / handbrake is
applied
⇒page 18

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
⇒page 19
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 16 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Instruments and warning/indicator lamps 18If the warning lamp does not go out, or if it lights up, flashes or
flickers when the vehicle is moving, this indicates a malfunction in
the system. This is also the case if the warning lamp does not light
up when the ignition is switched on.
WARNING
If a malfunction should occur, have the system checked immedi-
ately by a qualified workshop. If this is neglected, there is a risk
that the airbag system and/or belt tensioners may not be acti-
vated in an accident.Alternator

The warning lamp signals a fault in the alternator or in
the vehicle's electrical system.The warning lamp
 lights up when the ignition is switched on. It
should go out when the engine starts running.
If the warning lamp  lights up when you are driving, you can
normally continue as far as the nearest qualified workshop.
However, you should avoid using electrical equipment that is not
absolutely necessary because this will drain the battery.
Caution
If the coolant warning lamp
 in the instrument display lights up
as well while driving ⇒page 35, stop the vehicle immediately and
switch off the engine. In this case the coolant pump is no longer
being driven, and there is a risk of engine damage.
Seat belt warning lamp

The warning lamp acts as a reminder to fasten the seat
belts.After switching on the ignition, the warning lamp
 will remain lit
until the driver has fastened his seat belt. When the vehicle has
gathered speed you will also hear a warning chime.
For further information on the seat belts ⇒page 109.
Brake system

The warning lamp flashes if the brake fluid level is too low
or if there is a fault in the ABS system.If the warning lamp
 flashes (and the handbrake is not applied),
stop the vehicle and obtain professional assistance ⇒.
If a failure should occur in the ABS, the ABS warning lamp
 will
light up together with the brake warning lamp
 ⇒.
Handbrake applied
The warning lamp
 also lights up when the handbrake is applied.
If you drive by mistake with the handbrake still applied, you will hear
a warning buzzer.
WARNING
•
If the brake warning lamp does not go out, or if it lights up
when driving, the brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low – this
may cause an increased accident risk. Stop the vehicle and do not
drive on. You should obtain professional assistance.
•
If the brake warning lamp lights up together with the ABS
warning lamp, this can mean that the control function of the ABS
is out of action. As a result the rear wheels can lock relatively
easily when braking. This could cause the tail of the vehicle to skid
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 18 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Driver information system35
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Fault in the brake system

The warning lamp flashes when the handbrake is applied,
or if the brake fluid level is too low or if there is a fault in
the ABS system.If the symbol

flashes in the display when the handbrake
is not applied, there is a fault in the brake system. One of the
following messages will appear in the display together with
the symbol:
Stop vehicle and check brake fluid level
Brake fault ! Drive carefully to nearest workshop
–Stop the vehicle.
– You should obtain professional assistance.
If the ABS fails, the ABS warning lamp
 will light up together with
the brake warning symbol
 ⇒.
Handbrake applied
The warning lamp
 also lights up when the handbrake is applied.
In addition to this, a warning buzzer will sound after driving for
3 seconds at a speed above 5 km/h.
WARNING
•
If the brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low, this could
result in an accident. Do not drive on. You should obtain profes-
sional assistance.
•
If the brake warning lamp lights up together with the ABS
warning lamp, this can mean that the control function of the ABS
is out of action. As a result the rear wheels can lock relatively
easily when braking. This could cause the tail of the vehicle to skid
sideways. Drive carefully to the nearest qualified workshop and
have the fault rectified.
Fault in the cooling system

Faults in the cooling system must be rectified immedi-
ately.If the
 symbol flashes in the display, this means that either
the coolant temperature is too high or the coolant level is
too low. The following message will appear in the display
together with the symbol:
Switch off engine, check coolant level
– Stop the vehicle.
– Switch off the engine.
– Check the coolant level ⇒page 160.
– Add more coolant if necessary ⇒page 160.
– Wait for the symbol to go out before driving on.
– Obtain professional assistance if necessary.
If the coolant level is correct, the overheating may be caused by a
malfunction of the radiator fan.
If the alternator warning lamp lights up as well ⇒page 18, it is
possible that the drive belt has broken.
WARNING
•
If your vehicle should break down for technical reasons, stop it
at a safe distance away from moving traffic, switch off the engine
and turn on the hazard warning lights ⇒page 56, “Hazard
warning lights ”.
•
Never open the engine lid if you can see or hear steam or
coolant escaping from the engine compartment; there is a risk of
being scalded. Wait until you can no longer see or hear escaping
steam or coolant.
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 35 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Driving 82Starting the engine
Turn the key to this position to start the engine. While the engine is
being started the headlights are switched back to side lights and
other major electrical equipment is switched off. After the engine
has started the ignition key returns to position by itself.
The ignition key has to be turned back to position before re-
starting the engine. The starter inhibitor in the ignition lock
prevents the starter motor from engaging when the engine is
running, as this could cause damage.
WARNING
•
Wait for the vehicle to come to a standstill before removing the
ignition key from the lock. Otherwise the steering lock could
engage suddenly, which could cause an accident.
•
Always take the key with you when leaving the vehicle – even
if you only intend to be gone for a short time. This is especially
important if children are left in the car. They might otherwise be
able to start the engine or use power-operated equipment such as
the electric windows - this could lead to injuries.Note
If the battery has been disconnected and then reconnected it will be
necessary to leave the key in position for about 5 seconds before
starting the engine.Starting the engineThe engine can only be started with an original Audi key.On vehicles with R tronic, the engine can be started in
neutral (N) or in any gear (1 - 6 or R).
– Apply the handbrake firmly ⇒.– Push the clutch pedal all the way down (vehicles with
manual gearbox).
– Press and hold the brake pedal.
– Turn the ignition key to position ⇒page 81, fig. 72
without pressing the accelerator.
– Release the ignition key as soon as the engine starts; the
starter motor must not be allowed to run on with the
engine. Neutral gear (N) will be engaged on vehicles with
Rtronic.
When starting from cold the engine may be a little noisy for the first
few seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic tappets.
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern.
If the engine fails to start straight-away, switch off the starter after
about 10 seconds and try again after about half a minute.
WARNING
•
Never run the engine in confined spaces. The exhaust gases are
toxic.
•
If the engine is running and a gear is engaged, you will need to
hold the car with the footbrake.Caution
Avoid high engine speeds, full throttle and extreme load conditions
until the engine has reached its normal operating temperature,
otherwise this can damage the engine.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine when the vehicle is stationary. You
should drive off immediately whenever possible. This will help avoid
unnecessary exhaust emissions.
A3
A2A1
A2
A3
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 82 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Driving83
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Switching off the engineOn vehicles with R tronic, the engine can be switched off in
neutral (N) or in any gear (1 - 6 or R).
– Turn the ignition key to position ⇒page 81, fig. 72.
WARNING
•
Never switch off the engine until the vehicle is stationary.
•
The brake servo and the power steering system work only
when the engine is running. You need more strength to steer and
brake the vehicle when the engine is switched off. This would
mean a greater risk of accidents and serious injury, because you
cannot steer and brake in the normal manner.Caution
•
If the engine has been working hard for a long time, there is a risk
of heat building up in the engine compartment after the engine has
been switched off; this could cause engine damage. For this reason,
you should leave the engine idling for a few minutes or drive at a
moderate speed to let the engine cool down before switching it off
⇒page 139.
•
Because the engine can get very hot after working hard, do not
park the vehicle on surfaces which could catch fire (e.g. on grass or
at the forest edge).Note
After the engine is stopped the radiator fan may run on for up to
10 minutes, even if the ignition is switched off. The fan may also
start running again after some time if the coolant temperature rises
due to a build-up of heat, or if the engine is hot and the engine
compartment is heated up further by direct sunlight.
HandbrakeHandbrake
The handbrake should be applied firmly to prevent the
vehicle from accidentally rolling away.Applying the handbrake
– Pull the handbrake lever up all the way.
Releasing the handbrake
– Pull the lever up slightly and at the same time press in the
release button ⇒fig. 73 -arrow-.
– Keep the release button pressed and push the lever all
the way down ⇒.The handbrake warning lamp
 lights up when the handbrake is
applied with the ignition on.
A1
Fig. 73 Detail of the
centre console: Hand-
brake applied
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 83 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13

Driving 84
WARNING
Please note that the handbrake should be released all the way. If it
is only partially released this will cause overheating of the rear
brakes, which can impair the function of the brake system and
could lead to an accident.
Caution
Once the vehicle has come to a standstill, always apply the hand-
brake firmly and then engage a gear.Parking the car
Please note the following points to ensure there is no risk
of the car rolling away accidentally after it is parked.– Use the foot brake to stop the vehicle.
– Apply the handbrake firmly.
– Switch the engine off.
– Engage a gear ⇒.When parking on gradients
Turn the steering wheel so that the vehicle would roll into the kerb
if it did start to move accidentally.
WARNING
•
Do not leave anyone (especially children) in the vehicle when it
is locked. Locked doors could delay assistance in an emergency,
potentially putting lives at risk.
•
Never leave children unsupervised in the vehicle. They could,
for example, release the handbrake or put the gearbox in neutral.
The vehicle could then start moving and cause an accident.
Applies to vehicles: with hill hold assistDriving away on a slopeThe hill hold assist function makes it easier to drive away on a slope.
The system is activated when you press and hold the brake pedal for
a few seconds.
When you release the brake pedal the braking force will be main-
tained for a moment in order to hold the vehicle and make it easier
for you to drive away.
WARNING
•
If you do not drive away immediately after releasing the brake
pedal the vehicle could start to roll back. You should therefore
immediately press the brake pedal or apply the handbrake.
•
If the engine should stall you must immediately press the brake
pedal or apply the handbrake firmly.
•
If you are driving away on a slope in stop-and-go traffic press
and hold the brake pedal for a few seconds before driving off. This
will prevent the vehicle from rolling back unintentionally.Note
To find out whether your vehicle is equipped with the “hill hold
assist” function please contact an Audi R8 dealership or qualified
workshop.
document_0900452a816e6cc9.book Seite 84 Mittwoch, 21. Februar 2007 1:32 13