AUDI R8 2007 Owners Manual

Wheels and tyres169
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data Understanding the tyre designations makes it easier to choose the
correct tyres. For example, radial ply tyres have the following tyre
designations marked on the sidewall:
235 / 35 R 18 91 Y
This contains the following information:
The manufacturing date is also indicated on the tyre sidewall
(possibly only on the inner side of the wheel):
DOT ... 1010...
means, for example, that the tyre was produced in the 10th week of
2010.
Please note that with some types of tyres, the actual tyre size can
differ from the nominal size marked on the tyre (for instance 235/35
R 18 91 Y), and there may be significant differences in the contours
of the tyres, even though the tyres are marked with the same
nominal size designation. When replacing the tyres, it is therefore
important to make sure that the actual size of the new tyres does
not exceed the dimensions of the factory-approved makes of tyre.
Failure to observe this requirement can affect the clearance needed
for the tyres. This could result in contact between the tyres and
suspension components or bodywork. The brake lines could also be
damaged and the vehicle's safety could be severely impaired ⇒.
When using tyres with the maximum permitted nominal dimen-
sions, this can also void the vehicle's registration.If you use tyres that are approved by Audi you can be sure that the
actual tyre dimensions will be correct for your vehicle. If you decide
to fit a different type of tyre, you must obtain the appropriate manu-
facturer's certificate from the tyre retailer to confirm that the tyres
are suitable for your vehicle. Keep this certificate in a safe place.
Your local Audi R8 dealer will be able to advise you on which tyres
may be fitted to your vehicle.
On vehicles with four-wheel drive, all four tyres must always be
fitted with tyres of the same type, make and tread pattern, as other-
wise the driveline can be damaged by continuous variations in the
wheel speeds. For the same reason, only use a spare wheel with the
same tyre dimensions as the normal road wheels.
It is not permissible to use a wheel which is of a type different to
those already fitted on the vehicle (for instance when using winter
tyres) - even if you have a puncture.
It is best to have all servicing of wheels and tyres performed by a
qualified workshop. They have the necessary special tools and
replacement parts, trained personnel and facilities for disposing of
the old tyres.
WARNING
•
It is very important to ensure that the tyres you have chosen
have adequate clearance. When selecting replacement tyres, do
not rely entirely on the nominal tyre size marked on the tyre; with
some makes of tyre the effective tyre size can differ significantly
from the nominal dimensions, even though the tyres have the
same size designation. Inadequate tyre clearance can result in
damage to the tyres or the vehicle, causing a serious safety risk. It
may also invalidate the vehicle's type approval for use on public
roads.
•
Avoid running the car on tyres that are more than 6 years old.
If you have no alternative, you should drive slowly and with extra
care at all times.
235
Tyre width in mm
35
Height/width ratio in %
R
Tyre construction: Radial
18
Rim diameter in inches
91
Load rating code
Y
Speed rating code letter
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Wheels and tyres 170•
If wheel trims are fitted after the car is purchased, ensure that
there is an adequate flow of air for cooling the brakes.For the sake of the environment
Old tyres must be disposed of according to the laws in the country
concerned.
Note
•
Tyres with the “R0” mark are specially matched to your Audi. We
recommend that you use these tyres only. Your Audi R8 dealer or
specialist retailer will gladly provide you with further information.
•
Never mount used tyres if you are not sure of their previous
history.
•
For technical reasons it is not normally possible to use wheel
rims from other vehicles. In some cases this also applies to rims
from other vehicles of the same model.
Wheel bolts
The wheel bolts are designed to suit the rims on your car.The wheel bolts are matched to the rims. When installing different
wheels (for instance alloy wheels or wheels with winter tyres) it is
important to use the correct wheel bolts with the right length and
correctly shaped bolt heads. This is essential for the secure fit of the
wheels and for the proper function of the brake system.
Audi R8 dealers have full information on the technical requirements
when installing or changing tyres, rims or wheel trims.
The wheel bolts should be clean and turn easily.
A special adapter is required to turn the anti-theft wheel bolts*
⇒page 182.
Winter tyres
Winter tyres will significantly improve the car's handling
in winter road conditions.–Use only radial ply winter tyres.
– Winter tyres must be fitted on all four wheels.
– Only use winter tyres of the correct type approved for
your vehicle.
– Please note that the maximum permissible speed for
winter tyres may be lower than for summer tyres.
– Also note that winter tyres are no longer effective when
the tread is worn down.
– After fitting the wheels you must always check the tyre
pressures. The correct tyre pressures are listed on the
sticker on the driver's door pillar ⇒page 167.In winter road conditions winter tyres will considerably improve the
car's handling. Due to their type of construction (width, rubber
compound, tread pattern), summer tyres give less grip on ice and
snow. This applies particularly to vehicles equipped with wide
section tyres or high speed tyres (code letters H, V or Y on the side-
wall).
Only use winter tyres of the correct type approved for your vehicle.
The sizes of the winter tyres approved for your vehicle are listed in
the vehicle's documents (e.g. EC Certificate of Conformity or COC
document
3)). The vehicle documents vary depending on the
country of residence. Also refer to ⇒page 168.
Winter tyres are no longer fully effective when the tread is worn
down to a depth of 4 mm.
WARNING (continued)
3)COC = Certificate of conformity
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Wheels and tyres171
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data The performance of winter tyres is also severely impaired by ageing,
even if the tread is still much deeper than 4 mm.
Winter tyres are subject to the following maximum speed limits
according to speed rating code letter: ⇒
In Germany vehicles capable of exceeding these speeds must have
an appropriate sticker attached so it is visible to the driver. Suitable
stickers are available from Audi R8 dealers and specialist retailers.
Please note regulations to this effect in your country.
Using winter tyres with V-rating
Please note that the generally applicable 240 km/h speed rating for
winter tyres with the letter "V" is subject to technical restrictions;
the maximum permissible speed for your vehicle may be signifi-
cantly lower. The maximum speed limit for tyres with a V-rating
depends directly on the maximum axle weights for your car and on
the listed weight rating of the tyres being used.
It is best to contact an Audi R8 dealer to check the maximum speed
which is permissible for the V-rated tyres fitted on your car on the
basis of this information.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum speed permitted for the winter tyres
fitted on your car can cause tyre failure, resulting in a loss of
control of the vehicle – risk of accident.
For the sake of the environment
Summer tyres should be fitted again as soon as possible; they give
better handling on roads which are free of snow and ice. Summer
tyres produce less rolling noise, do not wear down as quickly and,
most importantly, reduce fuel consumption.Snow chains
Snow chains will improve the vehicle's handling on snow-
covered roads.– Snow chains can be used on the rear wheels only.
– Keep your speed below 50 km/h.Snow chains will improve braking ability as well as traction in winter
conditions.
For technical reasons snow chains may only be used on tyres with
certain wheel rim/tyre combinations.
Only use snow chains with fine-pitch links. The links must not
protrude more than 13,5 mm from the tyres (including tensioner).
Speed rating code letter
⇒page 168
Maximum speed limit
Q
160 km/h
S
180 km/h
T
190 km/h
H
210 km/h
V
240 km/h
(please note relevant restrictions)
Rim size
Rim offset
Tyre size
8.5Jx18
42 mm
235/40
8.5Jx19
42 mm
235/35
10.5Jx18
55 mm
285/35
10.5Jx19
55 mm
295/30
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Wheels and tyres 172Remove wheel covers (if fitted) and trim rings before attaching
snow chains. For safety reasons cover caps must then be fitted over
the wheel bolts. These are available from Audi R8 dealers.
Remove the chains when roads are free of snow. Otherwise they will
impair handling, damage the tyres and wear out very quickly.
Four-wheel drive: Where snow chains are compulsory on certain
roads, this normally also applies to cars with four-wheel drive. Snow
chains may only be fitted to the rear wheels (also on vehicles with
four-wheel drive).Tyre pressure monitoring systemApplies to vehicles: with tyre pressure monitoring systemIntroduction
The tyre pressure monitoring system keeps a check on the
inflation pressures of the four road wheels while you are
driving.The system warns the driver in the event of a loss of pressure by
means of symbols and messages in the instrument cluster display.
The system employs sensors on the wheels. The radio signals from
these sensors are transmitted to the tyre pressure monitoring
system.
Please bear in mind that the tyre inflation pressure is also influ-
enced by the temperature of the tyre. For every 10°C increase in the
tyre temperature the pressure will normally increase by about
0.1 bar. The tyre heats up while the vehicle is being driven and the
tyre pressure will rise accordingly. For this reason, you should only
adjust the tyre pressures when they are cold (i.e. approximately at
ambient temperature).
To ensure that the tyre pressure monitoring system works reliably,
you should check and, if necessary, adjust the tyre pressures at
regular intervals.The tyre pressures recommended for your vehicle are given on the
sticker attached to the driver's door pillar.
Initialising the tyre pressure monitoring system
The inflation pressures for two sets of wheels (e.g. with winter and
summer tyres) are stored on your vehicle. You can change between
these two sets of wheels any number of times without re-initialising
the system.
The tyre pressure monitoring system must be re-initialised by your
Audi R8 dealer if a new set of wheels is used or the electronic
sensors are renewed.
Warning lamp
 lit
If the tyre pressure is more than 0.5 bar below the reference value,
the display will show the tyre symbol
 with a corresponding
message, such as Tyre pressures too low ⇒.
WARNING
•
If the warning lamp
 lights up you must slow down immedi-
ately and avoid any severe braking or steering manoeuvres. As
soon as you can do so safely, stop and check the tyres and the tyre
pressures.
•
Never re-adjust the tyre inflation pressure when the tyre is hot.
This can cause serious damage to the tyre or even a blow-out,
which could result in an accident.
•
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.For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres lead to increased fuel consumption and tyre
wear.
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Wheels and tyres173
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data
Note
•
Responsibility for ensuring that the tyres are correctly inflated
remains with the driver; the system can only provide assistance.
•
Only adjust the inflation pressure of the tyres when they are at
approximately ambient temperature.
•
The sensors and valves do not have to be detached or changed
round when fitting new tyres. Only the valve core needs to be
replaced, and if necessary the valve and the electronic components
in the wheel.
•
After using the Tyre Mobility System* the tyre pressure moni-
toring system may malfunction. The sensor for the tyre pressure
monitoring system must therefore be renewed by a qualified
workshop.
Applies to vehicles: with tyre pressure monitoring systemMalfunctionsIf the tyre pressure monitoring system is inoperative, the tyre
symbol or “TPMS” will appear on the display. This can have various
causes:•
One of the wheel sensors or other related components may not
be working.
•
Snow chains can interfere with the signals emitted by the
sensors so that the system cannot function properly.
•
The tyre pressure monitoring system may be inoperative due to
radio interference.
•
Radio systems operating on the same frequency, such as radio
headphones or two-way radios inside the vehicle, produce strong
electromagnetic fields which can cause temporary interference.
•
If the fault persists, take the vehicle to a qualified workshop.
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Accessories and modifications to the vehicle 174Accessories and modifications to the vehicleAccessories, replacement parts and repairsIt is best to consult an authorised Audi R8 dealer before
purchasing accessories and replacement parts or having
any repairs carried out.Your car is designed to offer a high standard of active and passive
safety. For this reason, we recommend that you ask an Audi R8
dealer for advice before fitting accessories or replacement parts.
This is also very important if body repairs are required. Audi R8
dealers have full information on the manufacturer-approved repair
methods and can recommend suitable accessories and spare parts.
They can also give advice regarding official requirements for the
vehicle.
We recommend you to use only Audi accessories and Audi Genuine
parts®. Audi has tested these parts and accessories for suitability,
reliability and safety. Audi R8 dealers have the necessary experience
and facilities to ensure that the parts are installed properly.
Although the market is constantly scrutinised, Audi cannot judge or
assume responsibility for the reliability, safety and suitability of
non-genuine products - even though in some instances, these parts
may have been approved by an officially recognised technical
testing authority or accompanied by an official approval certificate.
Any retro-fitted equipment which has a direct effect on the vehicle
and/or the way it is driven (e.g. cruise control system or electroni-
cally-controlled suspension) must be approved for use in your
vehicle and bear the e mark (the European Union's approval
symbol).
If any additional electrical components are fitted which do not serve
to control the vehicle itself (for instance a refrigerator box, laptop or
ventilator fan, etc.), these must bear the CE mark (manufacturer
conformity declaration in the European Union).
WARNING
Never attach accessories (such as cup holders or telephone
brackets) to the surfaces covering the airbag units or the areas
around the airbags: this could cause injury if the airbag is trig-
gered.
Note
•
Since the Audi R8 has an aluminium body, all servicing, repairs
or other work on the car body must be carried out by an Audi R8
workshop or a qualified workshop working to the specifications of
the Audi factory. This ensures that the necessary repairs or servicing
are performed properly and that only Audi Genuine parts® are
installed on your vehicle. Use of non-genuine replacement parts,
equipment or accessories on your Audi R8, or repair of the vehicle
by unqualified persons, may result in serious damage to your car
(possibly including corrosion).
•
The manufacturer cannot be held liable for damage which occurs
as a result of failure to comply with these stipulations, and such
damage is not covered under warranty.
ModificationsModifications must always be carried out according to
our specifications.Unauthorised modifications to the electronic components or soft-
ware in the vehicle may cause malfunctioning. Due to the way the
electronic components are linked together in networks, other
systems may be affected by the faults. This can seriously impair
safety, lead to excessive wear of components, and also invalidate
the type approval for your vehicle.
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Accessories and modifications to the vehicle175
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data You will appreciate that your Audi R8 dealer cannot be held liable
for any damage caused by modifications and/or work performed
incorrectly.
We recommend that all work should be performed by an Audi R8
workshop using Audi Genuine Parts®.
WARNING
Incorrectly performed modifications or other work on your vehicle
can lead to malfunctions and cause accidents.Radio transmitters and business equipmentRadio transmitters (fixed installation)
Retrofit installations of radio transmitters in the vehicle are subject
to official approval. Audi generally authorises in-vehicle installa-
tions of approved types of radio transmitters provided that:•
the aerial is installed correctly,
•
the aerial is not installed in the interior of the vehicle (and
screened cables are used together with non-reflective aerial trim-
ming),
•
the effective transmitting power does not exceed 10 Watts at the
aerial base.
Audi R8 dealers and specialist retailers will be able to inform you
about options for installing and operating radio transmitters with a
higher transmitting power.
Mobile radio transmitters
When using commercial mobile telephones or radio equipment it is
possible that they might interfere with the electronics of your
vehicle and cause malfunctions. The reasons could be:
•
no external aerial
•
external aerial incorrectly installed
•
transmitting power more than 10 W.
Therefore you must not operate portable mobile telephones or radio
equipment inside the vehicle without a correctly installed external
aerial ⇒.
Please note also that the maximum range of the equipment can only
be achieved with an external aerial.
Business equipment
Retrofit installation of business or other equipment in the vehicle is
permitted, provided the equipment cannot interfere with the
driver's immediate control of the vehicle. Any such equipment must
carry the CE mark. Any retrofit equipment that could influence the
driver's control of the vehicle must have a type approval for your
vehicle and must carry the e mark.
WARNING
Mobile telephones or radio equipment which are operated inside
the vehicle without a correctly installed external aerial can create
excessive magnetic fields that could cause a health hazard.
Note
•
Any retrofit installation of electrical or electronic equipment in
the vehicle will affect its type approval. In extreme cases this could
mean that you might lose the type approval for your vehicle.
•
Please refer to the mobile telephone/radio operating
instructions.
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176
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177 Self-help
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Self-help 178Self-helpBreakdown kitThe breakdown kit consists of a warning triangle, first-aid
kit, tool kit and the Tyre Mobility System.
First-aid kit
Warning triangle
Tools
Tyre Mobility System ⇒page 178
The breakdown kit is located under the floor panel in the luggage
compartment.
The tool kit includes:
•
Hook for removing wheel covers* or hub caps
•
Box spanner for wheel bolts
•
Pin for mounting a wheel
•
Screwdriver with reversible blade
•
Towline anchorage
•
Jack*
Before stowing the jack* again, wind down the arm of the jack as far
as it will go.Some of the items listed are only provided on certain models, or are
optional extras.
WARNING
•
Do not use the hexagonal socket in the screwdriver handle to
tighten the wheel bolts. It is not possible to tighten the bolts with
the required torque – risk of accident.
•
The jack* supplied with the car is only designed for changing
wheels on this model. On no account attempt to use it for lifting
heavier vehicles or other loads – risk of injury.
•
Never start the engine when the vehicle is on the jack - risk of
accident.
•
If work has to be done under the vehicle, ensure that it is safely
supported on stands designed for the purpose, otherwise there is
a risk of injury.
Repairing a tyreGeneral information and safety notes
Repaired tyres are only suitable for temporary use.
Fig. 123 Breakdown
kit in the luggage
compartment
A1A2A3A4
Fig. 124 The Tyre
Mobility System is NOT
suitable for repairing
this type of damage to
tyres.
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