Self Study Program 612 – Audi A3 2013 Suspension

VAG SSP 612. A major development goal for the suspension system of the Audi A3 was to achieve a high level of agility, sporty handling and high driving comfort without making any compromises on driving dynamics.

The interaction between all specially co-ordinated suspension components contributes to active safety. Even in its basic configuration, the A3 ’13 affords brand-typical driving and vibration comfort with a strong emphasis on sporty attributes. It thus offers a high level of driving enjoyment.

This has been achieved by employing the proven concept of the McPherson front suspension in combination with a newly developed torsion beam and four-link rear suspension. The torsion beam rear suspension is 15 kg lighter than an equivalent multilink rear suspension, in addition to having aerodynamic advantages. Use of the torsion beam suspension or the four-link suspension  depends on engine version (power output).

The Audi A3 will also be available at a later date with all-wheel drive in combination with four-link rear suspension. An electronic damping control system based on the established Audi magnetic ride system will also be available as an option.

A weight-reduced electro-mechanical power steering system with speed-dependent steering assistance (Servotronic) is standard equipment in the Audi A3 ’13, as previously in the predecessor model. A variable steering ratio is achieved through the special geometry of the rack and pinion system. The range of newly developed steering wheels extends from the conventional four spoke steering wheel to the three-spoke multifunction sport steering wheel with leather trim and shift paddles. At 15 and 16 inches respectively, the wheel brakes (engine dependent) are larger than in the predecessor model and provide ample braking power relative to engine output.

The newly developed Continental MK100 ESP system was used for the first time on an Audi model. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is available for the Audi A3 for the first time in this class of vehicle. The control characteristics of ACC, Servotronic and the electronic damper control system can be adapted to driver input using Audi drive select.

CONTENTS

  • Suspension
    • Overview
  • Axles and suspension alignment
    • Front suspension
    • Rear suspension
    • Suspension alignment and set-up
  • Brake system
    • Overview
    • Design and function
    • Service operations
    • ESP overview
    • System components
    • Service operations
  • Steering system
    • Overview
    • Electro-mechanical steering
    • Steering wheel range
  • Audi magnetic ride
    • Overview
    • Service operations
  • Adaptive cruise control (ACC)
    • Overview
    • Design and function
    • Operation and driver information
    • Service and diagnostic operations
  • Wheels and tyres
    • Overview
    • Tyre pressure indicator
  • Test your knowledge
    • Self Study Programmes

The Self Study Programme teaches a basic knowledge of the design and functions of new models, new automotive components or new technologies.
It is not a Repair Manual! Figures are given for explanatory purposes only and refer to the data valid at the time of preparation of the SSP.
For further information about maintenance and repair work, always refer to the current technical literature.

Language: English
Format: PDF
Pages: 32

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