Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009): How to Remove Bumpers

The Audi A8 D3 is the third generation of the German brand's flagship sedan, remembered for its combination of elegant design, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional comfort. This model marked an important milestone in Audi's history, strengthening the brand's position in the premium segment.

Generation and Internal Designation

The Audi A8 D3 belongs to the third generation of the A8 line (following the D2 and preceding the D4). Its internal factory designation is Typ 4E, used for identification in technical documentation.

Production Years and Facelift

Production of the Audi A8 D3 began in 2002, with the first vehicles delivered to customers in 2003. The model remained in production until 2009 when it was replaced by the fourth generation (D4).

In 2005, Audi introduced the facelifted A8 D3. Exterior changes were subtle: a slightly redesigned radiator grille, new bumpers, and LED elements in the taillights. However, the main updates involved technology: improved multimedia systems, new engines, and additional safety features.

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP-EPDM TV20<

Front Bumper Removal

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Under the hood, remove seven screws (two screws are hidden under a plastic cover) securing the upper part of the front bumper.

  3. From underneath, release three quick-release clips and remove two screws.

  4. Turn the wheels outward.

  5. In the wheel arches, remove screws and release the fender liners (front section).

  6. Next, remove six nuts in the fenders.

    • Method 1: Through the wheel wells using a 10mm socket with extension, remove three nuts per side securing the bumper to the fenders. This will be very awkward.

    • Method 2: Remove four screws per side (fastened top to bottom) and pull out the headlights (lower screws under the bumper secure guides - the headlights simply slide off these). Remove fender nuts through the headlight openings.

  7. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward you).

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

  9. Disconnect electrical connectors.

  10. Disconnect headlight washer hoses (fluid may leak from the reservoir).

Front bumper mounting locations Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009)

Front bumper mounting diagram Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009)

mounting locations of the front headlight Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009)

Rear Bumper Removal

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

  1. Open the trunk.

  2. Open covers in the trunk side panels.

  3. From inside the trunk, below the taillights, remove one nut per side.

  4. Inside the wheel wells are mounting brackets. Locate plastic hex screws and turn them until the bumper mounting pins are released. The manual says "turn several times," but many turns are actually needed.

  5. From underneath, remove screws (fastened bottom to top) securing the lower section.

  6. In the wheel arches, remove three screws per side securing the fender liners.

  7. Release clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward you).

  8. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper backward (avoid scratching paint with mounting pins or tearing wires).

  9. Disconnect parking sensor connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009)

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Audi A8 D3 (2003-2009)

Modifications

The Audi A8 D3 was offered in several variants:

Engines

  • Gasoline:

    • 3.2 FSI (260 hp)

    • 4.2 FSI (350 hp) - most popular

    • 6.0 W12 (450 hp) - top version with 12-cylinder engine

  • Diesel:

    • 3.0 TDI (233 hp)

    • 4.2 TDI (326 hp) - powerful and efficient

Body Length

  • Standard version (regular wheelbase)

  • A8 L - extended version with more rear passenger space

Transmission

  • 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission

  • On some models - quattro all-wheel drive

Model Description

The Audi A8 D3 is a standout executive sedan with characteristic brand styling. Its aluminum body on the ASF (Audi Space Frame) platform provided lightness and high structural rigidity.

The design is restrained yet elegant. Flowing lines, a large grille, and expressive lighting emphasized its status. Inside: premium materials (leather, wood, aluminum), comfortable seats with multiple adjustments, and the then-advanced MMI multimedia system.

Technologies - one of the A8 D3's strengths. Available options included:

  • Adaptive air suspension

  • Night vision assist

  • Adaptive cruise control

  • Parking sensors and rearview camera

Interesting Facts

  • Aluminum body: Audi pioneered aluminum use in premium sedans, making the A8 lighter than competitors.

  • W12 engine: The 6.0L 12-cylinder accelerated 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds - impressive for a large sedan.

  • Movie star: The A8 D3 appeared in films including "Transformers" (2007).

  • First Audi with LEDs: Post-2005 facelift introduced LED taillight elements.

Conclusion

The Audi A8 D3 represents the perfect balance of luxury, technology, and reliability. Even today these vehicles maintain presence, and high-performance versions (especially W12 or 4.2 TDI) remain prized by enthusiasts. This third generation laid the foundation for future development, remaining in history as one of Audi's most well-rounded flagships.