Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.6, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.8 T, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.9 TDI, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.9 TDI, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) S3 quattro, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.8 T, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.9 TDI, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.6, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.9 TDI, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.8 T quattro, AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.8 T quattro View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

How to change rear shock absorber on AUDI A3 1 (8L1) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

video
All the parts you need to replace – Shock Absorber for A3 Hatchback (8L1) and other AUDI models
Tools
Replacement: shock absorbers – Audi A3 8L1. Tools you need:
Wire brush
WD-40 spray
Copper grease
Drive socket # 16
Combination spanner #16
Torque wrench
Adjustable wrench
Wheel impact socket #17
Hydraulic transmission jack
Wheel chock
Replacement: shock absorbers – Audi A3 8L1. Tip from AUTODOC experts:
  • Both shock absorbers of the rear suspension should be replaced simultaneously.
  • The replacement procedure is identical for the left and right shock absorbers of the rear suspension.
  • All work should be done with the engine stopped.
Carry out replacement in the following order:
  1. Step 1
    How to change Shock Absorber on Audi A3 8l1 1996 - free PDF and video manuals
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
  2. Step 2
    How to replace AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.9 TDI 1997 Shock Absorber - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
  3. Step 3
    Audi A3 8l1 1.8 T 1998 Shock Absorber replacement: free workshop manuals
    Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
  4. Step 4
    Changing Shock Absorber on AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) S3 1.8 quattro 1999 by yourself
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Warning! To avoid injury, hold the wheel while unscrewing the fastening bolts. Audi A3 8L1
  5. Step 5
    How to remove AUDI A3 1.8 2000 Shock Absorber - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Remove the wheel.
  6. Step 6
    How to replace Shock Absorber on AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 2001: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Clean the shock absorber fasteners. Use a wire brush. Use WD-40 spray.
  7. Step 7
    How hard is it to do yourself: Shock Absorber replacement on Audi A3 8l1 1.9 TDI 2002 - download illustrated guide
    Support the arm. Use a hydraulic transmission jack.
  8. Step 8
    Need to know how to renew Shock Absorber on AUDI A3 2003? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Unscrew the upper fastener of the shock absorber. Use a drive socket #16.
  9. Step 9
    Changing of Shock Absorber on Audi A3 8l1 1996 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Unscrew the lower fastener of the shock absorber. Use a combination spanner #16. Use a drive socket #16.
    Replacement: shock absorbers – Audi A3 8L1. Tip:
    To avoid injuries, hold the shock absorber when undoing the fastening bolts.
  10. Step 10
    AUDI A3 1.6 Shock Absorber replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Remove the support from under the rear arm.
  11. Step 11
    Replacing Shock Absorber on Audi A3 8l1 1998 1.9 TDI by yourself
    Remove the shock absorber.
  12. Step 12
    A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.8 1999 Shock Absorber DIY replacement workshop manual
    Remove the protective cap of the shock absorber mount.
  13. Step 13
    How to change Shock Absorber on AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 2000 - tips and tricks
    Clean the shock absorber rod fastener. Use a wire brush. Use WD-40 spray.
  14. Step 14
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement Audi A3 8l1 2001 1.8 Shock Absorber
    Remove the shock absorber piston rod fastening. Use a combination spanner #16. Use an adjustable wrench.
  15. Step 15
    DIY replacement of Shock Absorber on AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) 1.6 2002 is not an issue anymore with our step-by-step tutorial
    Remove the shock absorber mount, boot and bump stop.
    Replacement: shock absorbers – Audi A3 8L1. AUTODOC experts recommend:
    Τhoroughly examine the shock absorber mount, dust boot, bump stop. Replace them if necessary.Before installing a new shock absorber you should pump it manually 3-5 times.
  16. Step 16
    How to change Shock Absorber on Audi A3 8l1 1996 - free PDF and video manuals
    Install the boot and a bump stop onto the shock absorber.
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DIY AUDI A3 Hatchback (8L1) Shock Absorber replacement - online guide
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