Audi A8 D5 (2017-2025): How to Remove Bumpers

The fourth generation Audi A8, known by its internal designation D5, debuted in 2017, replacing the previous D4 model. This flagship sedan continued the brand's tradition by combining elegant design, cutting-edge technology and exceptional comfort. Let's examine what makes this generation remarkable, its distinctive features and some interesting facts.

Production Years and Facelift

The Audi A8 D5 has been in production from 2017 to present (as of 2025). In 2021, the model received a minor facelift affecting the radiator grille, bumpers, LED lighting and multimedia system. However, there were no radical changes to the platform or design - Audi opted for evolution rather than revolution.

Body Types

Like previous generations, the A8 D5 is only available as a sedan. The extended A8 L version existed for a long time, but in this generation Audi eliminated the separate designation - all models now have a long wheelbase (except the S8 which retains standard dimensions). Additionally, the luxurious Audi Horch is built on the D5 platform, positioned as a Mercedes-Maybach competitor.

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP/PE+TPO-TD20<

How to Remove Front Bumper

1. Open the hood

2. Under the hood, remove eight push-pin clips and detach the cover above the radiator grille

3. Under the cover, unscrew four screws (fastened top to bottom) securing the upper part of the front bumper (radiator grille)

4. From underneath, unscrew the screws (fastened bottom to top) securing the plastic underbody protection (can be removed with or without the protection)

5. Turn the wheels to full lock

6. In wheel arches, unscrew four screws per side securing the fender liners to side panels

7. Unscrew one screw per side (fastened bottom to top) securing the corners to fenders

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

9. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper forward (watch for wires and hoses)

10. Disconnect electrical connectors and camera nozzle hose (if equipped)

How to Remove Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk

2. Remove rear and side trunk trim panels

3. Inside trunk, below taillights, in inner fender areas and rear panel, unscrew ten nuts (10mm socket required, be careful not to drop nuts into hidden cavities)

4. From underneath, unscrew eight screws (fastened bottom to top) securing lower part of rear bumper

5. In wheel arches, unscrew four screws per side securing fender liners (rear section)

6. Unscrew one screw per side (fastened bottom to top) securing corners to fenders

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

8. With an assistant, carefully pull bumper backward (be careful not to scratch paint with studs or damage wires)

9. Disconnect parking sensor connectors and other electrical components

Platform and Technologies

The A8 D5 is built on the modular MLB Evo platform shared with Bentley Flying Spur and Porsche Panamera. This provides lightweight construction (thanks to aluminum body) and high safety standards.

A key feature is the predictive suspension with electromechanical stabilizers that scans the road via cameras and proactively adjusts dampers to minimize body roll and vibration. Several driving modes from Comfort to Sport are available.

Another innovation was Level 3 semi-autonomous driving (Traffic Jam Pilot), though due to legal restrictions this feature wasn't activated in most markets.

Interior: Digital Luxury

The cabin features two touchscreens (upper for multimedia, lower for climate controls) with minimal analog buttons. The instrument panel is the Audi Virtual Cockpit with 3D graphics.

Materials include natural leather, wood, aluminum and even ceramic (in top versions). Seats with massage, ventilation and heating, four-zone climate control and 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio create a first-class experience.

Engines and Drivetrain

The lineup includes:

• 3.0 TFSI (340 hp) turbo gasoline V6

• 4.0 TFSI (460-600 hp) powerful V8 for A8/S8

• 3.0 TDI (286-347 hp) diesel option

• A8 60 TFSI e (462 hp) plug-in hybrid with ~50 km electric range
  All models feature 8-speed Tiptronic automatic and quattro all-wheel drive.

Interesting Facts

• First production car with laser headlights (complementing matrix LED)

• Horch version pays tribute to Audi's founder

• In China, a "police package" version is available for government use

• The S8 accelerates 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds despite its luxury sedan status

Conclusion

The Audi A8 D5 combines technology, comfort and performance in a discreet luxury package. While less iconic than the S-Class or less sporty than the 7 Series, its balanced approach makes it one of the best in its class for those who appreciate understated elegance and innovation.