The 2017 Audi A4, particularly with its six-speed manual, offers a refined driving experience, blending German engineering with driver engagement,
a choice appreciated by enthusiasts․
Overview of the B9 A4 Generation
The B9 Audi A4, launched in 2016, represented a significant leap forward for Audi’s popular executive sedan․ This generation prioritized a more sophisticated design language, both externally and internally, moving away from the flowing lines of the B8 model․ It incorporated Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster, and a revamped infotainment system with MMI touch response․
Under the hood, the B9 A4 offered a range of turbocharged engines, including the 2․0-liter TFSI which was often paired with the available six-speed manual transmission․ The B9 chassis utilized lightweight materials, contributing to improved handling and fuel efficiency․ Audi focused on enhancing the overall refinement and technology within the A4, aiming to solidify its position as a leader in the competitive luxury car segment․ The 2017 model year continued this trend, refining existing features and offering new options․
Why Choose a Manual Transmission in the 2017 A4?
For driving purists, the six-speed manual transmission in the 2017 Audi A4 offers a connection to the vehicle largely absent in modern automatics․ It provides greater control over gear selection, allowing for more engaging and dynamic driving experiences, particularly on winding roads․ The manual also typically results in slightly improved fuel economy compared to the automatic variant, though the difference is often marginal․
Beyond performance, the manual A4 appeals to those who simply enjoy the tactile feedback and involvement of shifting gears themselves․ It’s a more immersive driving experience․ While less common, the manual option often holds its value better among enthusiasts․ Choosing the manual demonstrates a preference for driver skill and engagement over pure convenience, making it a unique and rewarding option within the B9 A4 lineup․
Technical Specifications of the 2017 Audi A4 Manual Transmission
The 2017 A4’s manual is a robust six-speed unit, designed for efficiency and durability, paired with either the 2․0T engine for optimal performance․
Gear Ratios and Transmission Codes
The 2017 Audi A4’s six-speed manual transmission utilizes specific gear ratios designed to balance acceleration, fuel efficiency, and overall driving dynamics․ First gear is typically geared for strong initial acceleration, while higher gears prioritize highway cruising․ The exact ratios vary slightly depending on the specific engine configuration, but a common setup includes first gear at 3․78:1, second at 1․88:1, third at 1․30:1, fourth at 0․93:1, fifth at 0․79:1, and sixth (overdrive) at 0․69:1․
Identifying the transmission code is crucial for parts sourcing and repair information․ The most common code for the 2017 A4 manual transmission is MLN, though variations may exist․ This code is often found on the transmission housing itself or within the vehicle’s service records․ Knowing the transmission code ensures compatibility when replacing components like the clutch or synchronizers, preventing potential fitment issues and ensuring proper functionality․
Clutch System Details
The 2017 Audi A4’s manual transmission features a single-plate, dry clutch system, renowned for its robust design and responsive engagement․ The clutch disc diameter typically measures around 240mm, providing ample surface area for efficient power transfer․ The pressure plate utilizes diaphragm springs to apply clamping force, ensuring smooth and consistent engagement․
Hydraulic actuation is employed, meaning the clutch pedal operates a master cylinder that transmits fluid pressure to a slave cylinder located at the transmission․ This system offers a lighter pedal feel compared to cable-operated clutches․ The throw-out bearing (release bearing) is a critical component, responsible for disengaging the clutch when the pedal is depressed․ Regular inspection of the hydraulic lines for leaks and proper clutch fluid levels are essential for optimal performance and longevity of the system․
Driving Experience and Performance
The 2017 Audi A4 manual delivers a connected, engaging drive; precise shifts and a well-weighted pedal enhance control, offering a sporty feel for enthusiasts․
Shifting Characteristics and Feel
The 2017 Audi A4’s six-speed manual transmission is renowned for its precise and satisfying mechanical feel․ Gate selection is crisp, and throws are relatively short, contributing to a sporty driving experience․ The clutch pedal offers a progressive engagement, making smooth transitions between gears achievable with practice․
While not a race-bred short-throw shifter, the A4’s setup provides a direct connection between driver and machine․ Many owners appreciate the weighting of the shifter knob and the tactile feedback during each gear change․
Downshifts are equally well-defined, allowing for confident engine braking․ The transmission doesn’t exhibit any significant notching or vagueness, even with higher mileage․ Overall, the shifting experience is refined and contributes significantly to the A4’s enjoyable driving dynamics, appealing to those who prefer a more involved driving experience․
Performance Metrics with Manual Transmission
The 2017 Audi A4, equipped with the six-speed manual and the 2․0-liter turbocharged engine, achieves 0-60 mph times in approximately 6․8 to 7․2 seconds, depending on specific testing conditions and driver skill․ This performance is competitive within its segment, offering a balance between efficiency and spirited acceleration․
Quarter-mile times typically fall in the 14․5 to 15-second range․ Fuel economy figures are respectable, averaging around 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, though these numbers vary based on driving style․
The manual transmission allows for greater control over engine RPM, potentially improving acceleration in certain scenarios․ While not as quick as the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, the manual provides a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing significant performance․ The A4’s weight distribution and chassis contribute to balanced handling, enhancing overall performance․
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Typical concerns with the 2017 A4’s manual include clutch wear, synchro issues, and shift linkage problems; regular inspection is crucial for longevity․
Typical Problems with the 6-Speed Manual
Several issues commonly arise with the 2017 Audi A4’s six-speed manual transmission․ A frequent complaint centers around premature clutch wear, often exacerbated by aggressive driving styles or city commuting․ Drivers report a noticeable decline in clutch pedal feel before complete failure․ Synchronizer issues, particularly with second and third gear, can manifest as grinding during shifts, indicating internal wear within the transmission․
Shift linkage problems, while less common, can occur, leading to imprecise or notchy shifting; This may require adjustment or replacement of linkage components․ Some owners have also experienced difficulty getting the transmission into gear when cold, potentially related to hydraulic issues or internal tolerances․ Regular fluid checks and timely maintenance are vital to mitigate these potential problems and ensure the longevity of the manual transmission․
Clutch Wear and Replacement
Clutch wear is a significant concern for 2017 Audi A4 manual transmission owners․ Factors like driving habits – frequent stop-and-go traffic, aggressive acceleration, and “riding” the clutch – accelerate wear․ Symptoms include a slipping clutch during acceleration, increased pedal effort, and unusual noises․ A typical clutch lifespan ranges from 50,000 to 80,000 miles, but this varies greatly․
Replacement involves removing the transmission, a labor-intensive process best left to professionals․ Costs typically range from $800 to $1500, including parts (clutch kit, flywheel resurfacing) and labor․ Using a high-quality clutch kit is crucial for optimal performance and longevity․ Consider upgrading to a performance clutch if you frequently engage in spirited driving, as it offers increased durability and heat resistance․
Maintenance and Repair
Regular inspections and fluid checks are vital for the 2017 Audi A4’s manual transmission, ensuring smooth operation and preventing costly repairs down the road․
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining the 2017 Audi A4’s manual transmission requires a diligent schedule to ensure longevity and optimal performance․ Every 30,000 miles, or approximately two years, the transmission fluid should be inspected for contamination and level․ A complete fluid change is generally recommended every 60,000 miles, utilizing Audi-approved G56 fluid․
The clutch system also demands attention․ Inspect the clutch disc for wear every 30,000 miles, looking for signs of slippage or damage․ Regularly check the clutch master and slave cylinders for leaks․ Brake fluid, which impacts the clutch hydraulic system, should be flushed every two years․
Furthermore, inspect the shift linkage for proper operation and lubrication․ Address any stiffness or play promptly․ Following this schedule will help avoid unexpected issues and keep your A4 shifting smoothly for years to come․
Fluid Checks and Changes
Regularly checking and changing the transmission fluid is crucial for the 2017 Audi A4’s manual gearbox health․ Use a bright flashlight to inspect the fluid level through the fill plug; it should be near the bottom of the fill hole when the engine is warm․ The fluid should appear clean and have a slightly sweet odor – a burnt smell indicates contamination․
Audi specifies G56 transmission fluid for this model․ A full fluid change requires approximately 2․5-3 liters․ Drain the old fluid completely, replacing the crush washer on the drain plug․ Carefully fill with the new fluid, checking the level again after a short drive․
Avoid mixing different fluid types․ Improper fluid can cause shifting problems and internal damage․ Always refer to the Audi service manual for precise procedures and torque specifications․
Modifications and Upgrades
Enhancing the 2017 Audi A4’s manual transmission involves performance clutches for increased power handling and short shifters for quicker, more precise gear changes․
Performance Clutch Upgrades
For 2017 Audi A4 owners seeking to elevate their manual transmission’s capabilities, performance clutch upgrades represent a significant enhancement․ The stock clutch, while adequate for standard driving, can struggle to maintain grip with increased horsepower from engine tuning or modifications․ Several aftermarket options are available, categorized by their holding capacity and driving style․
Single-disc clutches offer a balance of performance and drivability, suitable for moderately tuned engines․ Twin-disc clutches, however, provide substantially higher clamping force, ideal for heavily modified A4s pushing significant power․ Considerations include pedal feel – performance clutches often require more effort – and potential for increased clutch chatter․ Brands like South Bend Clutch and SPEC Clutch are popular choices, offering various stages to match individual needs․ Proper installation is crucial; professional fitting is highly recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity․
Short Shifter Options
A short shifter dramatically alters the driving experience of the 2017 Audi A4’s manual transmission, reducing throw length for quicker, more precise gear changes․ This modification appeals to enthusiasts prioritizing a sporty and connected feel․ Several manufacturers offer short shifters specifically designed for the B9 A4 platform․
Options range from simple shift lever replacements to more complex internal mechanism modifications․ These adjustments decrease the distance the shift lever travels between gears, resulting in faster shifts and a more direct connection to the drivetrain․ Popular brands include B&B Shortshifters and Forge Motorsport, each offering varying degrees of reduction․ Installation typically requires removing the center console and accessing the shift linkage․ While some DIY installations are possible, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper alignment and avoid damaging the transmission components․ A short shifter enhances driving engagement and responsiveness․
Resources and Community
Online Audi A4 forums and dedicated Facebook groups provide invaluable support, repair advice, and a platform for sharing experiences with fellow enthusiasts․
Online Forums and Communities
Numerous online platforms cater specifically to Audi A4 owners, fostering a vibrant community around the B9 generation and its manual transmission․ AudiWorld’s A4 section is a highly active forum, offering detailed discussions on maintenance, modifications, and troubleshooting specific to the 2017 model․
Facebook groups, such as those dedicated to the B9 A4, provide a more immediate and visually-oriented space for sharing experiences and seeking quick advice․ Reddit’s r/Audi subreddit also features dedicated threads for A4 owners, covering a wide range of topics․ These communities are invaluable resources for diagnosing issues, finding reliable parts suppliers, and learning from the collective knowledge of other enthusiasts․ Members frequently share DIY guides, repair tutorials, and insights into common problems encountered with the six-speed manual transmission․
Parts Suppliers for 2017 A4 Manual
Sourcing parts for the 2017 Audi A4’s manual transmission requires careful consideration of quality and reliability․ Several suppliers specialize in Audi components, offering both OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket options․ ECS Tuning is a popular choice, known for its extensive catalog of performance parts and maintenance items specifically for Audis․
FCP Euro provides a lifetime replacement guarantee on all parts, offering peace of mind for long-term maintenance․ Genuine Audi Parts, available through official dealerships or online retailers like AudiUSAparts․com, ensure compatibility and quality․ For clutch kits, consider brands like Sachs and Luk, reputable manufacturers often used as OEM suppliers․ When purchasing, verify compatibility with the specific transmission code of your 2017 A4 to avoid fitment issues․ Comparing prices and reading customer reviews is crucial before making a purchase․