Audi e-tron (2018–2023): How to Remove Bumpers

In 2018, Audi took a significant step toward electrification by introducing its first mass-produced pure electric model—the e-tron. This vehicle didn't just become the flagship of the brand's new direction but also laid the foundation for the company's future electric cars. Let's explore what made the first-generation e-tron stand out, its unique features, and why it remains an interesting option in the used electric vehicle market.

Production Years and Facelift
The Audi e-tron was produced from 2018 to 2023, receiving a minor facelift in 2021. The updated version featured higher-capacity batteries, increased range, and slight cosmetic changes: a new grille, redesigned LED headlights, and a slightly revised bumper. A sportier e-tron S variant was also introduced, equipped with three electric motors and enhanced performance.

 

Body Styles
The e-tron was available in two body styles:

  • Five-door SUV (standard e-tron) – The main version, offering a spacious interior and elevated seating position.

  • Coupe-like SUV (e-tron Sportback) – A more stylish version with a sloping roofline, launched in 2019.

Both variants shared the same platform and similar technical specifications, but the Sportback had a more aggressive look and slightly better aerodynamics.

 

Front Bumper Removal

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Remove the cover under the hood.

  3. Unscrew the two bolts beneath the cover (fastened from bottom to top).

  4. Turn the wheels to the side being worked on.

  5. Remove the wheel arch liners (secured with clips; pry and pull toward you).

  6. In the wheel wells, unscrew three bolts per side securing the fender liners (front section).

  7. Unscrew one bolt per side attaching the bumper corners to the fenders.

  8. Unscrew the bolts from underneath (fastened from bottom to top).

  9. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners outward).

  10. Release the clips under the headlights.

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

  12. Disconnect the headlight washer hoses (fluid may leak).

  13. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Front bumper mounting locations Audi e-tron I (2018–2023)

Front bumper mounting diagram Audi e-tron I (2018–2023)

Rear Bumper Removal

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

  1. Open the trunk lid.

  2. Remove the trim panels near the taillights (secured with clips; pull outward).

  3. Unscrew two bolts per side and remove the taillights (secured with clips in the fenders).

  4. Under the taillights, unscrew two bolts and pull out two plastic retainers upward.

  5. In the trunk, remove the rear panel trim and unscrew four nuts behind it (requires a socket wrench with extension).

  6. From underneath, unscrew the bolts (fastened from bottom to top).

  7. Remove the wheel arch liners (secured with clips; pry and pull toward you).

  8. In the wheel wells, unscrew three bolts per side securing the fender liners (rear section).

  9. Unscrew one bolt per side attaching the bumper corners to the fenders.

  10. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the bumper corners outward).

  11. Release the clips under the taillights.

  12. With an assistant, pull the bumper rearward (watch for wires).

  13. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

mounting locations of the rear bumper Audi e-tron I (2018–2023)

Audi e-tron I (2018–2023) Tail Light Mounting Diagram

Rear bumper mounting diagram Audi e-tron I (2018–2023)

Technical Features
The first-generation e-tron featured dual electric motors (one per axle), providing quattro all-wheel drive. Power outputs varied:

  • Standard version: 355 hp (402 hp in boost mode), 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.

  • e-tron S: 429 hp (496 hp in boost mode), 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds.

Post-facelift, the battery capacity increased from 95 to 106 kWh, extending the range to 440 km (WLTP). While not record-breaking by 2023 standards, it was respectable for its time.

Fast charging supported up to 150 kW, enabling a 5%-80% charge in ~30 minutes. Home charging at 11 kW took ~8-9 hours.

 

Design and Interior
Externally, the e-tron resembled a typical Audi premium SUV but with EV-specific touches: a sealed grille, no exhaust pipes, and aerodynamic wheels.

The interior followed modern Audi styling: dual touchscreens (infotainment and climate), digital instrument cluster, premium materials, and excellent sound insulation. The absence of a transmission tunnel (common in ICE vehicles) created more cabin space, especially in the standard-roof version.

 

Interesting Facts

  • First but not last: The e-tron was Audi's first series EV but was succeeded in 2023 by the upgraded Q8 e-tron.

  • Virtual mirrors: Some trims featured cameras instead of side mirrors, with door-mounted displays—an innovative solution not legal everywhere.

  • Tri-motor performance: The e-tron S pioneered triple-motor setups (two rear, one front) for better acceleration and handling.

  • Dakar prototype: Audi's 2022 RS Q e-tron rally hybrid adapted technology from the production e-tron.

 

Conclusion: Why the e-tron Still Matters
Though discontinued, the first-gen e-tron remains a compelling used EV option—a reliable, tech-rich premium electric SUV with decent range and distinctive styling. While newer models exist, the 2018–2023 e-tron delivers a proven package without compromises.

For cutting-edge tech, consider its successor, the Q8 e-tron. But as Audi's EV trailblazer, the original e-tron retains its place in automotive history.