Audi 80 B4 (1991–1996): How to Remove the Bumpers

The Audi 80 B4, internally known as Typ 8C, is the third generation of this iconic model produced from 1991 to 1996. It replaced the Audi 80 B3 (Typ 89) and became the last vehicle in the "80" lineup – in 1996 it was succeeded by the Audi A4 (B5).

Body Types and Modifications

The Audi 80 B4 was offered in several body variants:

• Sedan (Limousine) – the classic four-door version, most popular in Europe.

• Station Wagon (Avant) – introduced in 1992, becoming the first wagon in Audi 80 history.

• Two-Door Coupe – while visually resembling the Audi 80, technically it was a separate model based on the B3 platform (Typ 8B).

Engines ranged from modest 1.6L gasoline (75 hp) to powerful 2.6L V6 (150–174 hp). Diesel versions (1.9 TD) were renowned for reliability and fuel efficiency. The engineering pinnacle was the Audi S2 – a high-performance version with a 2.2L turbocharged engine (230 hp) and quattro all-wheel drive, developed by Audi Sport.

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP<

Front Bumper Removal

1. Open the hood.

2. Unscrew one bolt under the hood (fastened top-to-bottom) securing the center section.

3. At the front edges, remove two decorative covers (held by clips, use a flathead screwdriver to press the latch and pull the covers toward you).

4. Behind the covers, unscrew two bolts (fastened bottom-to-top, requiring a ratchet with extension) securing the brackets.

5. Turn the wheels left or right depending on which bumper side you're working on first.

6. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts securing the fender liners (front section).

7. Release the bumper edges from side latches (pull firmly downward and toward you).

8. With an assistant, carefully pull the front bumper forward (watch for wires and hoses).

9. Disconnect the fog light connectors and headlight washer hoses (if equipped).

Rear Bumper Removal

1. Open the trunk.

2. Remove the upper trim piece (held by clips, pull upward).

3. Under the trim, unscrew one bolt (fastened top-to-bottom, may be absent).

4. In the wheel arches, unscrew two bolts per side securing the fender liners (rear section).

Two Methods Available:

Method 1:
5. In the trunk, lift the floor covering and unscrew four bolts securing the brackets to the body (two bolts hidden by side trunk linings).

Method 2 (Preferred if Tow Hitch Installed):
5. Under the trim, use a socket wrench to unscrew two bolts per side (marked with blue arrows) securing the brackets to the bumper.

For Both Methods:
6. Release the corners from side latches (pull firmly downward and toward you).
7. Pull the bumper off (best done with two people to avoid paint scratches on fenders).

Model Description: Evolution in Details

Compared to the B3, the Audi 80 B4 featured more modern design:

• Rounded Shapes – eliminated angularity, improved aerodynamics (Cd reduced to 0.29).

• New Front End – wide headlights and grille established Audi's future design language.

• Enhanced Safety – first to include door crossbars and airbags (from 1994).

The interior became more spacious with higher-quality materials. Top trims offered leather, AC, and even an onboard computer.

Interesting Facts

• Last Audi 80 – The B4 concluded the "80" era that began in 1972.

• Sporting Heritage – The B4-based Audi RS2 Avant (315 hp) was essentially a Porsche product.

• Unexpected Longevity – In some countries (e.g. South Africa), the B4 was assembled until 2000 as the Audi 90.

• Fuel Efficiency Champion – The 1.9 TDI version (90 hp) could travel 1,000 km on one tank.

• Movie Star – The Audi 80 B4 appeared in the 1998 film "Taxi" as a police car.

Conclusion

The Audi 80 B4 represents a significant chapter in the brand's history. Combining reliability, understated design, and advanced technology, it's now prized by collectors – especially quattro and S2 versions. For those seeking a classic German sedan with character, the B4 remains an excellent choice.