Audi A4 B5 (1994-2001) How to Remove Bumpers

Internal Designation and Production Years

The Audi A4 B5 is the first generation of the A4 model, which replaced the legendary Audi 80. The internal factory designation "B5" is simple to explain: "B" stands for the platform (related to the Volkswagen Passat B5), while "5" is the generation number.

Production began in 1994, and in 1997, it underwent a facelift (the so-called "Phase 2"). Production continued until 2001, although in some countries (such as China), the model was assembled for longer.

Body Types and Modifications

The Audi A4 B5 was offered in three main body variants:

  • Sedan (Typ 8D) – the classic four-door version, the most popular.

  • Avant Wagon (Typ 8D) – a practical version with a larger trunk.

  • Cabriolet (Typ 8H) – produced from 1998 under the name Audi Cabriolet (though technically, it was a modernized Audi 80 Cabriolet).

Engines and Transmissions

The engine range was wide—from modest gasoline four-cylinders to powerful turbocharged units.

Gasoline Engines:

  • 1.6 (101 HP) – the base engine but somewhat weak for the rather heavy body.

  • 1.8 (125 HP) – the most common; later, the turbocharged 1.8T (150–180 HP) appeared, which became iconic due to its tuning potential.

  • 2.6 and 2.8 V6 (150–193 HP) – smooth and torquey but not the most economical.

  • S4 (2.7 BiTurbo, 265 HP) – the top version with quattro all-wheel drive, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.

Diesel Engines:

  • 1.9 TDI (90–130 HP) – reliable and economical, especially in demand in Europe.

  • 2.5 TDI (150 HP) – powerful but less common.

Transmissions included a 5- or 6-speed manual or a 4- or 5-speed automatic. Drive was either front-wheel or quattro all-wheel drive (on most powerful versions).

1997 Facelift

In 1997, the Audi A4 B5 received a slight update:

  • The radiator grille was changed (featuring the recognizable "fishbone" pattern).

  • The bumpers and headlights were updated (halogen versions got clear lens sections).

  • The interior received a new instrument panel and improved materials.

  • The engine lineup added the 180 HP 1.8T and 2.5 TDI.

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP/EPDM TV20<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Turn the wheels depending on which side you are disassembling.

  3. If present, unscrew the screws in the wheel arches that secure the fender liners to the bumper.

  4. In the front section, below the headlights, remove the decorative grilles.

  5. Beneath the grilles, unscrew two bolts (fastened from bottom to top) that secure the brackets to the reinforcement. If these bolts won't budge, you can unscrew the brackets from the body (bolts are marked with blue arrows).

  6. Release the clips in the fenders (firmly pull the corners downward and toward yourself).

  7. Slide the bumper forward (watch for wires and hoses).

  8. Disconnect the fog light connectors (if equipped).

  9. Disconnect the headlight washer hoses (if equipped).

Front bumper mounting locations Audi A4 B5 (1994-2001)

Front Bumper Mounting Diagram Audi A4 B5 (1994-2001)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. If present, unscrew the screws in the wheel arches that secure the rear part of the fender liners.

  2. Open the trunk lid.

  3. Lift the trunk floor covering.

  4. Unscrew four long bolts (fastened from top to bottom) that secure the brackets to the body.

  5. Release the sides from the clips in the fenders (grab the corner, push down, and pull toward yourself).

  6. With an assistant, carefully slide the bumper backward.

If the bolts in the trunk won't unscrew for some reason, you can unscrew the brackets from the aluminum bumper reinforcement (bolts are marked with blue arrows). It's not very convenient but possible.

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi A4 B5 (1994-2001)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Audi A4 B5 (1994-2001)

Model Description

The Audi A4 B5 is a typical representative of the 1990s premium segment. It stood out for its high build quality, good sound insulation, and comfortable suspension (multi-link rear).

Pros:

  • Durable and repairable platform.

  • Excellent handling (especially with quattro).

  • Wide engine selection, including the successful TDI and 1.8T.

Cons:

  • Prone to rust (especially sills and wheel arches).

  • Electrical issues (e.g., automatic transmission sensors).

  • Expensive maintenance for V6 and bi-turbo versions.

Interesting Facts

  • Volkswagen Group Platform – The A4 B5 shared its base with the Volkswagen Passat B5, first-gen Škoda Superb, and even the Porsche Cayenne (in adapted form).

  • Cabriolet – Audi 80 Heritage – The A4 Cabriolet (8H) was technically a modernized Audi 80 Cabriolet, produced since 1991.

  • RS2 Avant – Not Quite an A4, But Close – The famous Audi RS2 (1994) was based on the Audi 80, but many components (including suspension) came from the A4 B5.

  • Chinese Longevity – In China, the A4 B5 sedan was produced until 2005 as the Audi A4 Classic.

  • Racing Career – The A4 B5 competed in touring car racing, with particular success in Super Touring spec.

Conclusion

The Audi A4 B5 is an important model in the brand's history, setting standards for future generations. It combines German reliability, good performance, and reasonable pricing on the used market. The key is to monitor the body's condition and maintain the mechanicals properly.