Technician Safety Information

1998 Audi A8 Sedan (4D2) V8-3.7L (AEW)SECTION Technician Safety Information



Safety Precautions


WARNING!
Be alert when working on or near the engine. High ignition secondary voltage can cause serious personal injury and damage vehicle components.
- DO NOT touch or disconnect ignition system wires when the engine is running or being cranked at starting RPM.
- DO NOT operate the starter if fuel injectors are removed.

Be sure the ignition is switched OFF, when:
- Disconnecting ignition wires or fuel injection wiring
- Connecting or disconnecting test equipment leads
- Disconnecting the battery
- Washing the engine or engine compartment.



WARNING!
BEFORE cranking the engine at starting RPM (as for compression test) disable ignition and fuel injection systems:
- Disconnect both ignition coil power output stages, and both fuses for Motronic in the E-box in the plenum.
- After the work is completed, erase Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) memory, and carry out component functional checks using "Output Diagnostic Test Mode" function 03.
- If necessary, correct any malfunctions, erase DTC memory, and generate new readiness code.



CAUTION!
BEFORE disconnecting the battery:
- Stop the engine.
- Be sure the ignition is switched OFF (also applies when connecting the battery). Failure to do so may damage the Engine Control Module (ECM).
- Be sure of the proper radio code (for vehicles equipped with coded anti-theft radio).

Be sure the battery negative (-) cable is disconnected, when:
- Working on the electrical system
- Resistance (spot) welding or electric arc welding anywhere on the vehicle.

When connecting and disconnecting electrical test equipment (LED voltage tester, multimeter, etc):
- Be sure the ignition is switched OFF.
- Use correct adapters from the VW 1594 connector test kit.

For any work affecting the Engine Control Module (ECM):
- BEFORE disconnecting the ECM harness connector, switch the ignition OFF and WAIT at least 20 seconds. Failure to do so may damage the ECM.
- DO NOT connect any outside voltage source to stimulate an output signal at the ECM.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.