Contents3
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data Child safety
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Points to remember if children are
travelling in the car . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child safety seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fitting child safety seats . . . . . . . .
Driving tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent technology
. . . . . . . . . .
Electronic stabilisation program
(ESP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear spoiler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Four-wheel drive (quattro®) . . . . . .
Dry sump lubrication system . . . .
Your vehicle and the
environment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emission control systems . . . . . . .
Driving abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sporty driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental compatibility . . . . .
General maintenance
. .
Care of vehicle and cleaning
. . .
General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care of exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care of interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel and filling the tank
. . . . . . . .
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and topping up fluidsEngine lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windscreen washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wheels and tyres
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tyre pressure monitoring system .
Accessories and modifications
to the vehicle
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories, replacement parts and
repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Radio transmitters and business
equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Self-help
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Self-help
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repairing a tyre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tow-starting and towing away . . .
Fuses and bulbs
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical data
. . . . . . . . . . . .
General notes
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle identification data . . . . . . .
Performance, weights and
dimensions
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
R8 4.2 quattro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
122
123
126
131
132
132
134
134
136
136
137
138
138
138
138
139
139143
144
144
144
147
152
152
152
155
155
157
159
161
162
164
166
166
172
174
174
174
175177
178
178
178
182
185
187
190
190
193
195
196
196
196
198
198
198
199
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Instruments and warning/indicator lamps15
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Warning and indicator lampsOverview
The warning and indicator lamps indicate a number of
different functions and possible faults.Fig. 6 Instrument cluster with warning and indicator lamps Warning and indicator lamps in the rev counter
Turn signals ⇒page 17
Warning and indicator lamps in the driver information system
⇒page 33
Warning and indicator lamps in the speedometer
Warning and indicator lamps in the rev
counter
Warning and indicator lamps in the speedometer
A1A2A3A4
Audi magnetic ride
⇒page 16
Tyre pressure too low
⇒page 16,
⇒page 172
Engine management
⇒page 16
Electronic stabilisation program (ESP)
⇒page 16
Emission control system
⇒page 17
Main beam headlights
⇒page 17
Rear spoiler
⇒page 17
Cruise control system
⇒page 17
Airbag system
⇒page 17
Alternator
⇒page 18
A1A4
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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
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Driver information system33
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Clearing speed limit
– Switch off the ignition.
– Briefly press the adjuster/test button in the instrument
cluster ⇒page 32, fig. 29. The mileage recorder display
and the digital clock will light up.
– Press the adjuster/test button for at least 2 seconds. The
display will show the speed limit which is currently set.
– Now press and hold the button on the wind-
screen wiper lever ⇒page 32, fig. 30 until the
crossed-out warning symbol for speed limit 2 appears on
the display.The display lighting for the mileage recorder and digital clock goes
off again a few seconds after the button is released.
Note
This speed limit function can also be operated via the on-board
computer ⇒page 25, “Selecting options from the menu”.Notes and symbolsRed symbols
A red symbol warns of a serious malfunction.–Stop the vehicle.
– Switch off the engine.
– Check the function displayed. Obtain professional assist-
ance if necessary.
A red symbol is accompanied by three warning chimes. The symbol
will keep flashing until the fault is corrected. If several faults are
detected at the same time, the symbols are displayed one after the
other for about 2 seconds at a time.
Note
•
You can press the left adjuster button to display a message that
gives you more information.
•
On vehicles equipped with a navigation system the warning
symbol is displayed in the top section of the display while the route
guidance is active.
Yellow symbols
A yellow symbol indicates a malfunction or other item
requiring attention.
Reset
AB
BRAKE
Fault in the brake system
⇒page 35
COOLANT
Coolant level too low / coolant
temperature too high
⇒page 35
OIL
PRESS.
Engine oil pressure too low
⇒page 36
Tyre pressure monitoring sys-
tem*
⇒page 36
Fuel level low
⇒page 36
Check engine oil level
⇒page 37
Engine oil sensor defective
⇒page 37
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Driver information system 36•
The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a dangerous
place. Before carrying out any work in the engine compartment,
switch off the engine and allow it to cool down. Please observe the
important safety warnings ⇒page 155, “Working on components
in the engine compartment”.Caution
Do not drive on if the symbol
has come on to indicate a fault in
the cooling system, otherwise there is a risk of damaging the
engine.
Engine oil pressure too low
If the engine oil pressure is too low the fault must be recti-
fied immediately.If the
symbol flashes in the display, the oil pressure is
too low. The following message will appear in the display
together with the symbol:
Switch off engine and check oil level
– Stop the vehicle.
– Switch off the engine.
– Check the engine oil level ⇒page 157.
– Obtain professional assistance if necessary.
If the engine oil level is too low
If the engine oil level is too low, add more oil ⇒page 158.If the engine oil level is correct
If the
symbol flashes and the engine oil level is correct, obtain
professional assistance. Do not drive on. Do not continue to run the
engine, not even at idle speed.
Applies to vehicles: with tyre pressure monitoring systemTyre pressure monitoring system
The tyre pressure should be corrected as soon as possible
if it is too low.If the
symbol appears, the tyre pressure on at least one
of the wheels is too low. The message Tyre pressures too
low will be displayed.
–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.Fuel level low
When this symbol
comes on for the first time, there are about
10 litres of fuel left in the tank. You should fill up as soon as possible
⇒page 152.
If this warning symbol lights up although the fuel tank is sufficiently
filled, there is a malfunction in the fuel tank system. The display will
also show the driver message Tank system malfunction ! Contact
workshop. Please take the vehicle to a qualified workshop.
WARNING (continued)
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Safe driving103
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
– Check the tyre pressures.
– Make sure that all windows are clean and give good visi-
bility to the outside.
– Secure all luggage and other items carefully.
– Make sure that no objects can interfere with the pedals.
– Adjust the front seat, head restraint and mirrors
correctly.
– Make sure that the head restraints for all passengers are
adjusted to the correct position.
– Make sure that children are protected with suitable
safety seats and properly worn seat belts ⇒page 122.
– Sit in the correct position in your seat and make sure that
your passengers do the same. ⇒page 67.
– Fasten your seat belt correctly. Make sure that your
passengers do the same ⇒page 109.What affects driving safety?
Safety on the road is directly related to how you drive, and
can also be affected by the passengers in the vehicle.The driver is responsible for the safety of the vehicle and all
its occupants. If your ability to drive is impaired in any way,
you endanger yourself and other road users ⇒. There-
fore:
– Do not let yourself be distracted by passengers or by
using a mobile phone, etc.
– Never drive when your driving ability is impaired (by
medication, alcohol, drugs, etc.).– Obey all traffic regulations and speed limits.
– Always adjust your speed to suit the road, traffic and
weather conditions.
– Take frequent breaks on long trips. Do not drive for more
than two hours without a stop.
– If possible, avoid driving when you are tired or stressed.
WARNING
•
Distractions while driving or any kind of impairment to your
driving ability increase the risk of accident and injury.
•
Do not store loose objects on the dashboard. These objects
could fly around the interior when the vehicle is moving (under
acceleration or whilst cornering) and distract the driver – this
could lead to an accident.
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Your vehicle and the environment139
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Sporty drivingLetting the engine warm up and cool downYou can reduce the amount of wear and tear on your vehicle during
a sporty driving session simply by adopting a more restrained
driving style while the engine is warming up and cooling down.
You should allow the engine to warm up by keeping the engine
speed below 7000 rpm until the engine oil reaches at least 90 °C. In
addition, the tyres will not develop their full grip potential until they
have had a chance to warm up on the road.
Even though the engine continues to be cooled after you switch it
off, it is particularly important to give it time to cool down before
parking. The engine, brakes, exhaust system and gearbox will all
reach very high temperatures when you adopt a sporty driving style.
Before you park the vehicle, allow it to cool down to normal temper-
ature by driving at moderate rpm speeds for several miles.Driving on a racing circuitBefore you take your car out on a racing circuit, please ensure that
it is in perfect condition. You should check the tyre tread and brake
pads for wear. It's also a good idea to increase the tyre pressure by
0.3 bar.
The oil consumption may be slightly higher than “normal” when
driving on a racing circuit ⇒page 157.
You should always check your vehicle after driving hard. Are the
brake pads ok? Do you notice any problems with the tyres (e.g. tread
worn, blistering, etc.)? Are the air intakes free of leaves and
deposits? Is the oil level ok?
Your Audi R8 dealer will be glad to carry out an inspection before
and after you use the car on a racing circuit.
Note
•
Some racing circuits (e.g. with banked curves) can affect the
behaviour of the ESP.
•
Driving the car on a racing circuit places a heavy load on all parts
of the vehicle. This can result in increased wear and tear.
Environmental compatibilityEnvironmental protection is a top priority in the design, choice of
materials and production of your new Audi. Particular importance
has been attached to the following aspects:
Design measures for economical recycling•
Joints and connections designed for ease of dismantling
•
Modular construction to facilitate dismantling
•
Increased use of single-grade materials
•
Plastic parts and elastomers are labelled in accordance with ISO
1043, ISO 11469 and ISO 1629
Choice of materials
•
Nearly all materials used can be recycled
•
Similar types of plastics grouped together for easy recycling
•
Recycled materials used in manufacture
•
Reduced vapour emissions from plastics
•
CFC-free refrigerant in air conditioner
Compliance with the laws prohibiting the use of:
•
Cadmium
•
Asbestos
•
Lead
•
Mercury
•
Chrome VI
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Wheels and tyres167
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Tyre service life
Correct inflation pressures and sensible driving habits
will increase the service life of your tyres.– Check the tyre pressures at least once a month.
– The tyre pressures should only be checked when the
tyres are cold. The slightly raised pressures of warm tyres
must not be reduced.
– The pressures must be altered to suit major changes in
the load being carried.
– Avoid fast cornering and hard acceleration.
– Inspect the tyres for irregular wear from time to time.The service life of your tyres depends on the following factors:
Tyre pressure
Under-inflation or over-inflation will reduce the life of the tyres
considerably and also impair the car's handling. The inflation pres-
sures are listed on a sticker on the driver's door pillar.
Correct inflation pressures are very important, especially at high
speeds. The pressures should therefore be checked at least once a
month and before starting a journey.
Driving habits
Fast cornering, heavy acceleration and hard braking (squealing
tyres) all increase tyre wear.
Wheel balancing
The wheels on new vehicles are balanced. However, various factors
encountered in normal driving can cause them to become unbal-
anced, which results in steering vibration.Unbalanced wheels should be rebalanced, as they otherwise cause
excessive wear on steering, suspension and tyres. A wheel must
also be rebalanced when a new tyre is fitted or if a tyre is repaired.
Incorrect wheel alignment
Incorrect wheel alignment causes excessive tyre wear, impairing the
safety of the vehicle. If you notice excessive tyre wear, contact your
Audi R8 dealer.
WARNING
•
Always adapt the tyre pressure accordingly when the vehicle
load changes.
•
Under-inflated tyres flex more and can overheat at continuous
high speeds. This can cause tread separation and tyre blow-out,
which could result in an accident. Always observe the recom-
mended tyre pressures.For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres will increase the fuel consumption.
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