2013-2017 Audi A5 & S5 Rear Bumper Cover: A Guide to S-Line, Sensors, and Swaps

Key Variations for 2013-2017 A5 & S5 Rear Bumpers

Finding the right rear bumper cover for your 2013-2017 Audi A5 or S5 (often called the B8.5 generation) requires careful attention to a few key details. These models were available in different trims and with different options that directly affect which bumper cover you need. Using a bumper from the wrong trim package will result in poor fitment and an incorrect appearance.

Standard A5 vs. A5 S-Line / S5

This is the most significant difference. The bumper covers for these three configurations have distinct shapes and are not directly interchangeable without swapping other parts.

• Standard A5 (Base/Premium/Premium Plus without S-Line): This bumper has a smoother, less aggressive design. The lower section, known as the diffuser or valance, is less pronounced.
• A5 S-Line: The S-Line package gives the A5 a sportier look, using a rear bumper cover that is visually very similar or identical in shape to the S5 bumper. It features a more prominent lower diffuser section.
• S5: The S5 bumper is the most aggressive, designed to accommodate the model's quad-tip exhaust system. While the main cover might be the same shape as an A5 S-Line, the lower diffuser is unique to the S5's exhaust setup.

Parking Assist Sensor Holes

Vehicles equipped with the optional Parking System Plus have ultrasonic sensors mounted in the rear bumper cover. Bumper covers are manufactured either with or without the holes for these sensors.

• With Park Assist: The bumper will have circular cutouts for the sensors.
• Without Park Assist: The bumper will be a solid, smooth surface with no holes.

Exhaust Cutouts (Lower Valance/Diffuser)

The lower part of the bumper cover, often a separate trim piece called a diffuser or valance, has cutouts for the exhaust tips. These vary by engine and trim:

• A5 2.0T: Typically has cutouts for dual tips on one side.
• S5 3.0T: Features wider cutouts for quad tips (two on each side).

When buying a used bumper, ensure the lower valance matches your car's exhaust configuration or be prepared to purchase the correct valance separately.

Symptoms of a Failing Bumper Cover

Failure of a bumper cover is almost always due to physical damage rather than mechanical breakdown. Look for:

• Cracks, Scuffs, and Gouges: The most common symptom, resulting from collisions or parking mishaps.
• Broken Mounting Tabs: Impacts can break the plastic tabs that secure the bumper to the car's body, causing a loose fit, rattling, or uneven panel gaps.
• Paint Damage: Fading, peeling, or chipping paint can occur from sun exposure or minor impacts.
• Warping or Deformation: Extreme heat, improper repairs, or stress from an accident can cause the plastic to warp, leading to poor fitment.

Buying a Used Bumper Cover: What to Check

A used OEM bumper cover is often a better choice than a new aftermarket one due to superior fit, material quality, and durability. However, inspect a used part carefully before buying.

1. Verify Compatibility: First, confirm the bumper is from a 2013-2017 A5 or S5. Check if it's a standard or S-Line/S5 model. Finally, verify if it has holes for parking sensors to match your car's setup. Take photos of your original bumper for comparison.
2. Inspect All Mounting Points: Carefully check every tab, clip, and screw hole on the top, sides (where it meets the quarter panels), and bottom. Broken tabs are a major red flag and can make it impossible to align the bumper correctly.
3. Look for Hidden Cracks: Flex the bumper slightly and inspect it under good light. Look for hairline cracks, especially around the corners and mounting areas, which might not be obvious at first glance.
4. Check for Previous Repairs: Look at the backside of the bumper for signs of plastic welding, adhesives, or filler (Bondo). Feel for any areas that are unusually thick or rigid. A poorly repaired bumper can crack easily and may not have the same flexibility as the original material.
5. Assess the Paint Condition: If the bumper is the same color as your car, check for deep scratches, mismatched paint, or peeling clear coat. Remember that even a perfect color match may require professional blending to look seamless. Most used bumpers will require repainting.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of this writing, there are no specific NHTSA recalls or TSBs directly related to the rear bumper cover itself for the 2013-2017 Audi A5 and S5. Recalls for this period primarily concern issues like the electric coolant pump, airbag components, and seat belt pretensioners.

Installation Overview & Difficulty

Replacing the rear bumper cover is a moderately difficult job that a skilled DIY mechanic can perform.

• Difficulty: 3 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
• Tools Required: Torx bits (T25/T30), 10mm socket, trim removal tools, a soft blanket to place the bumper on.

General Steps:

1. Open the trunk and remove any interior liners to access the bolts holding the top of the bumper.
2. Remove the tail lights, as they often hide fasteners for the bumper cover.
3. Inside each rear wheel well, remove the screws or clips holding the bumper edge to the liner and body.
4. Remove fasteners along the bottom edge of the bumper.
5. If equipped, disconnect the wiring harness for the parking sensors.
6. Carefully pull the sides of the bumper cover outwards to release them from the retaining clips on the quarter panels.
7. With a helper, pull the bumper straight back and away from the vehicle.

Cost Comparison

Prices for a rear bumper cover can vary significantly based on the source and condition. All new covers come primed and require painting, which adds to the total cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)