Audi A4 B7 (2004–2008): How to Remove the Bumpers

The Audi A4 B7 is the third generation of the popular German sedan that replaced the A4 B6 and had a relatively short production run, but left a significant mark in the brand's history. This model combines classic Audi design, cutting-edge technology for its time, and excellent handling. Let's examine what makes the B7 special, what versions were available, and some interesting facts about it.

Internal Designation and Production Years

The Audi A4 B7 generation was produced from 2004 to 2008, though sales continued until 2009 in some markets. The internal "B7" code is the factory designation for the platform, which was essentially a thorough modernization of the previous B6. The main changes affected the suspension, electronics, and design.

Facelift and Visual Changes

Although the B7 is considered a separate generation, many call it a facelift of the B6. Externally, the car received a new Singleframe radiator grille (like on the Audi A6 C6 and A8 D3), redesigned headlights, a more aggressive front bumper, and modified taillight shapes. The interior featured an updated multifunction steering wheel, improved trim materials, and a new multimedia system.

Body Types

The Audi A4 B7 was offered in three main body styles:

  • Sedan - the classic four-door version, most popular in Europe

  • Station Wagon (Avant) - the practical version with increased trunk space, favored by families

  • Convertible (Cabriolet) - the open-top version based on the coupe, but with a soft top
    Interestingly, there was no coupe version in this generation - the two-door version only appeared in the next B8 generation.

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP EPDM-T20<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Unscrew the three bolts under the hood that secure the upper part of the front bumper (radiator grille).

  3. From underneath, release the three clips securing the lower part.

  4. Turn the wheels outward (easier if wheels are removed).

  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts securing the fender liners (front part).

  6. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew two bolts on each side that secure the bumper to the brackets.

  7. Inside the fenders, near the headlight edges, unscrew two 10mm nuts on each side (requires a socket wrench with extension).

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

  9. With an assistant's help, pull the bumper forward (be careful not to damage wires or hoses).

  10. Disconnect electrical connectors.

  11. Disconnect headlight washer hoses (if equipped, washer fluid may leak from reservoir).

Front bumper mounting locations Audi A4 B7 (2004–2008)

Audi A4 B7 (2004–2008) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Open the trunk.

  2. Remove the trunk lid seal.

  3. Lift the trunk floor covering.

  4. Unscrew the bolts and remove the rear trunk panel trim upward.

  5. Unscrew bolts, remove clips and free the side trunk trims.

  6. Clear space under side trims (need access to rear of fenders).

  7. Inside fenders, unscrew four 10mm nuts per side (five on some body types).

  8. Unscrew two bolts installed from bottom upward.

  9. In wheel arches, unscrew one bolt per side securing the fender liners (rear part).

  10. Move fender liners aside and unscrew side mounting bolts.

  11. Unscrew two bolts installed from bottom upward.

  12. Release fender clips (pull bumper corners toward you).

  13. With help, carefully pull bumper backward (watch for wires).

  14. Disconnect parking sensor connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi A4 B7 (2004–2008)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Audi A4 B7 (2004–2008)

Engines and Versions

The Audi A4 B7 was offered with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.6 MPI (102 HP) - base engine, somewhat underpowered for the weight

  • 1.8T (163 HP) - turbo version with good dynamics

  • 2.0T FSI (200 HP) - one of the most popular, with direct injection

  • 3.2 FSI (256 HP) - powerful naturally aspirated V6 with quattro AWD

Diesel (TDI):

  • 1.9 TDI (105-115 HP) - reliable and economical

  • 2.0 TDI (140-170 HP) - more modern but maintenance-sensitive

  • 3.0 TDI (233 HP) - top diesel with excellent torque

Special mention goes to the S4 B7 - the sport version with a 4.2L V8 (344 HP) and quattro AWD. The 0-100 km/h sprint took just 5.3 seconds, an excellent figure for the mid-2000s.

Technical Features and Handling

The Audi A4 B7 was built on the Volkswagen Group B7 platform, which retained multi-link suspension front and rear. This gave the car precise and predictable handling, especially in quattro (AWD) versions.

However, front-wheel-drive versions had the typical Audi drawback - understeer (tendency for front-end push in corners). Though not critical for normal driving.

Interesting Facts

  • Last Audi A4 with hydraulic power steering - the next B8 generation used electromechanical steering

  • The convertible outlived the B7 - it continued selling for a year after the A4 B8 launch

  • RS4 only as wagon and sedan - unlike the B6 where RS4 was wagon-only, the B7 added a sedan

  • 2.0 TFSI engine - progenitor of modern Audi turbo engines - became basis for many VW Group powertrains

Conclusion

The Audi A4 B7 is a transitional model between classic early-2000s Audis and more modern B8s. It combines recognizable design, good dynamics and high comfort. Today the B7 remains popular on the used market thanks to affordable pricing and simple maintenance (except top versions). If you're looking for an inexpensive premium sedan or wagon with character - the A4 B7 definitely deserves consideration.