Audi A3 8P (2003-2013) How to Remove Bumpers

The Audi A3 8P is the second generation of the popular compact hatchback from the German brand, which replaced the first model (8L) and solidified the brand's success in the premium compact car segment. This version proved to be more technologically advanced, offered more body styles and modifications, and became an important milestone in Audi's development.

Internal Designation and Production Years

The 8P platform debuted in 2003 and was produced until 2013, though sales continued longer in some regions. Unlike its predecessor (8L), which was only available as a three-door, the 8P offered more body and engine options.

The model underwent two facelifts:

  • First update (2008) – Revised lighting, grille, bumpers, and new engines.
  • Second update (2012, Facelift 2) – More aggressive design, LED headlights, and an updated engine lineup.

 

Body Styles

The A3 8P was available in several variants:

  • 3-door hatchback – Sporty and dynamic, the successor to the original A3.
  • 5-door hatchback (Sportback) – More practical, with a longer wheelbase.
  • 4-door sedan (in some markets like the U.S. and China) – A rare variant not widely available in Europe.
  • Convertible (A3 Cabriolet, 8P7) – Introduced after the 2008 facelift, featuring a folding soft top.

 

Bumper Plastic Markings:

EMPP-TV20< or >PP/EPDM-TV20<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew three bolts (inserted top to bottom) securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  3. From underneath, unscrew seven bolts securing the lower part to the engine compartment shield.
  4. Turn the wheels to the side.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts on each side securing the fender liners (front part).
  6. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew three bolts on each side inside the fenders securing the bumper to the fenders (four bolts are inserted bottom to top, and two near the headlight edges—a long extension with a socket will be needed).
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners downward and toward yourself).
  8. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward (ensure no wires or hoses are torn).
  9. Disconnect the fog light connectors (if equipped).
  10. Disconnect the headlight washer hoses (if equipped).

Front bumper mounting locations Audi A3 8P (2003-2013)

Front bumper mounting diagram Audi A3 8P (2003-2013)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. Remove two covers in the trunk's side trim panels.
  3. Under the covers, unscrew the nuts, release the retainers in the fenders (marked with blue arrows), and remove the taillights.
  4. Under the taillights, unscrew two long and two short bolts (inserted top to bottom).
  5. In the rear panel trim, remove two covers.
  6. Under the covers, unscrew two nuts (a socket with a long extension is needed. Note: The nuts may fall into a hidden cavity).
  7. From underneath, unscrew two bolts (inserted bottom to top) securing the lower part.
  8. In the wheel arches, unscrew four bolts on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners.
  9. Release the sides from the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  10. Release the clips under the taillights.
  11. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward (watch for wires).
  12. Disconnect the parking sensor connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi A3 8P (2003-2013)

mounting locations for the rear light of the Audi A3 8P (2003-2013)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Audi A3 8P (2003-2013)

Modifications and Engines

The Audi A3 8P was offered with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.2 TFSI (102 HP) – Economical but underpowered for the heavy body.
  • 1.4 TFSI (122–125 HP) – One of the most popular, offering a good balance of power and efficiency.
  • 1.6 (102 HP) – Naturally aspirated, simple but reliable.
  • 1.8 TFSI (160–180 HP) – Dynamic and easy to maintain.
  • 2.0 TFSI (200–265 HP) – Used in performance versions like the S3 and Seat Cupra.
  • 3.2 VR6 (250 HP) – Rare and thirsty but with a distinctive sound.

Diesel:

  • 1.6 TDI (90–105 HP) – Modest but very fuel-efficient.
  • 1.9 TDI (105 HP) – Legendary for its reliability.
  • 2.0 TDI (140–170 HP) – The best choice for combining performance and economy.

Performance Versions:

  • S3 8P (2006–2013) – 2.0 TFSI (265 HP), quattro AWD, 0–100 km/h in 5.7 sec.
  • RS3 Sportback (2011–2012) – 2.5 TFSI (340 HP), one of the most powerful hot hatches in the lineup.

 

Model Description and Features

The A3 8P featured a stiffer body, improved sound insulation, and higher-quality interior materials compared to the 8L. The interior followed Audi's signature minimalist, ergonomic, and well-built design.

Available technologies included:

  • quattro AWD (on high-performance models).
  • DSG transmission (improved acceleration but occasionally had reliability issues).
  • Audi Magnetic Ride adaptive suspension (S3 and RS3).
  • MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment system.

 

Interesting Facts

  • VW Group Platform – The A3 8P shared its platform with the Golf V and Skoda Octavia II but had premium tuning.
  • First RS3 – Debuted in the 8P generation (2011) as the most powerful production A3 at the time.
  • FWD Convertible – The A3 Cabriolet lacked quattro, even in powerful trims—unusual for Audi.
  • CNG Hybrid – The 2010 A3 TCNG ran on natural gas but never became mainstream.
  • Design Influence – The post-facelift Singleframe grille became an Audi hallmark.

 

Conclusion

The Audi A3 8P is a key model in the brand's history, popularizing the premium compact segment. It combines German engineering, diverse configurations, and enjoyable driving dynamics. Even today, used examples remain desirable, especially with reliable engines like the 1.9 TDI and 1.8 TFSI.

When buying an A3 8P, check the transmission (especially DSG), engine condition, and hidden rust spots. With proper maintenance, this model can remain reliable for years.