Audi A3 8V (2012-2020) - How to Remove the Bumpers

Introduction
The Audi A3 8V is the third generation of the popular compact premium sedan and hatchback, which replaced the A3 8P in 2012. This model marked an important milestone in Audi's lineup, offering a more modern design, improved technologies, and new engines. Let's explore what made the A3 8V memorable, what modifications were available, and some interesting facts about it.

Internal Designation and Production Years
The 8V generation was produced from 2012 to 2020, with a facelift in 2016 that updated the exterior, equipment, and engine range. After 2020, it was replaced by the new A3 8Y generation.

Body Types
The Audi A3 8V was available in several body styles:

  • 3-door hatchback - the sporty but least practical version

  • 5-door hatchback (Sportback) - the most popular version combining compactness and practicality

  • 4-door sedan (Limousine) - introduced in 2013, primarily for the US and Chinese markets where sedans are more valued than hatchbacks

  • Convertible (A3 Cabriolet) - open-top version based on the 3-door hatchback, produced from 2014

2016 Facelift
In 2016, the A3 8V received updates including:

  • Exterior: new grille, redesigned bumpers, LED lighting (Matrix headlights optional)

  • Technology: digital Audi Virtual Cockpit, updated MMI multimedia system

  • Safety: additional driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and autonomous braking

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP/EPDM-TV20<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood

  2. Remove three screws (inserted top to bottom) securing the upper part of the front bumper (radiator grille)

  3. Under the vehicle, remove seven screws (inserted bottom to top) securing the lower part

  4. Turn the wheels depending on which side you're working on

  5. In the wheel arches, remove three screws per side securing the fender liners (front part)

  6. Move the fender liners aside and remove one screw per side (inserted bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders

  7. Inside the fender area near the headlight edges, remove one screw per side (requires long Torx bit)

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

  9. Release the fasteners under the hood

  10. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper forward (be careful not to damage wires or hoses)

  11. Disconnect electrical connectors

  12. Disconnect headlight washer hoses (if equipped)

Front bumper mounting locations Audi A3 8V (2012-2020)

Front bumper mounting diagram Audi A3 8V (2012-2020)

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 the taillights (Sedan: remove trunk compartment covers and four screws underneath. Hatchback: remove plugs in side trunk trim and plastic fasteners underneath)

  3. Below the taillights, remove two plastic fasteners (pry up with flat screwdriver) securing the upper bumper

  4. Remove the rear trunk panel trim (pulls upward) and free the sides of the side trims

  5. Under the trims, remove plugs and four 10mm nuts underneath (extension required - nuts may fall into hidden cavity)

  6. Under the vehicle, remove two screws (inserted bottom to top) securing the lower part

  7. In the wheel arches, remove three screws per side securing the fender liners (rear part)

  8. Release the sides from the fender clips (pull corners toward you)

  9. Release the clips under the taillights

  10. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper rearward (mind the wiring)

  11. Disconnect electrical connectors

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi A3 8V (2012-2020)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Audi A3 8V (2012-2020)

mounting locations of the rear light Audi A3 8V sedan (2012-2020)

mounting locations of the rear light Audi A3 8V hatchback (2012-2020)

Modifications and Engines
The A3 8V offered a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines, plus high-performance versions from Audi Sport:

  • Gasoline TFSI: from 1.0 TFSI (110 hp) to 2.0 TFSI (300 hp in S3)

  • Diesel TDI: 1.6 TDI (110 hp) and 2.0 TDI (up to 184 hp)

  • Hybrid (A3 e-tron): plug-in hybrid with 1.4 TFSI + electric motor (204 hp)

  • Performance versions:

    • S3 - 2.0 TFSI (300 hp), quattro all-wheel drive, 0-100 km/h in 4.8s

    • RS3 - 2.5 TFSI (367 hp, 400 hp post-facelift), one of the most powerful hot hatches of its time

Model Description
The A3 8V represented significant progress over its predecessor. Based on Volkswagen's modular MQB platform, it reduced weight and improved handling. The interior featured more premium materials while technology matched Audi's flagship models.

Key Features:

  • Build quality - typical Audi: minimal plastic, pleasant-touch materials

  • Handling - precise steering and well-tuned suspension (especially with adaptive dampers)

  • Technology - Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support, wireless charging (post-facelift)

Interesting Facts

  • First A3 sedan - Before the 8V, Audi didn't produce A3 sedans, but US/Chinese demand led to the Limousine version

  • RS3's unique engine - The 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder is rare among modern turbo-4-dominated engines

  • e-tron hybrid drawback - Battery reduces trunk space compared to standard A3

  • Audi S3 - "stealth" sports car - Nearly identical to regular A3 but with 2000s-era 911 performance

Conclusion
The Audi A3 8V successfully combines compact dimensions, technology, and driving pleasure. It proved premium cars can be affordable without compromise. The S3 and RS3 versions remain sought-after on the used market for their power and character. If you want a balanced blend of comfort and dynamics, the A3 8V deserves serious consideration.