2013-2014 Audi S8 Grille: A Guide to Sensors, Part Numbers, and Replacement
Learn how to choose the correct grille for your D4 S8 by navigating the complex options like Adaptive Cruise Control and Night Vision, and what to inspect on a used part.
- Compatibility is complex; you must verify if a grille matches your car's specific options for Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Night Vision, and cameras.
- When buying used, the single most important inspection is to check that all plastic mounting tabs on the back are intact and undamaged.
- Replacement requires the complete removal of the front bumper cover, making it a job for experienced DIYers or a professional shop.
- Budget for potential ADAS recalibration, which can cost anywhere from $400 to over $1,500 and is critical for safety system function.
Grille Variations for the 2013-2014 Audi S8
Finding the right grille for a pre-facelift D4 chassis S8 requires careful attention to detail. While all 2013-2014 S8 models feature the distinct platinum grey finish with chrome twin-bar slats, the specific part number you need depends entirely on the options installed on your vehicle. Using the wrong grille can result in safety system malfunctions or prevent installation altogether.
Key Variants to Identify:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Grilles for vehicles with ACC have specific mounting brackets and often distinct openings for the two radar sensors located on the lower driver and passenger sides of the grille. A grille without these provisions cannot be used on an ACC-equipped car.
- Night Vision Camera: Vehicles with the Night Vision Assist option have a thermal imaging camera mounted behind the Audi rings. The grille must have the correct mounting bracket in this location.
- Front Parking Sensors: Most S8 models came with front parking sensors. The grille must have the corresponding holes and mounting points for these sensors.
- Front View Camera: As part of the 360-degree camera system, some vehicles have a front-facing camera, typically located just below the Audi rings. The grille must accommodate this camera.
Warning: A grille from a 2015 or newer 'facelift' D4 S8 will not fit a 2013-2014 model without extensive modifications to the bumper and headlights. Likewise, a standard A8 grille has a different design and will not directly fit an S8 bumper.
Common Symptoms of Grille Failure
Failure of the S8 grille is almost always due to external factors rather than a manufacturing defect.
- Visible Physical Damage: The most common issue is damage from road debris, parking lot bumps, or animal strikes. This can cause cracks in the plastic frame, broken honeycomb or slat sections, and peeling or chipped chrome trim.
- Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) Errors: If the grille is damaged, loose, or incorrectly installed, it can misalign the sensors it holds. This can trigger dashboard warnings like "Audi Pre Sense: currently limited" or cause the Adaptive Cruise Control to become unavailable. An error code such as C110300 for a maladjusted front radar sensor may be stored.
- Rattling or Vibrating Noises: Broken mounting tabs on the back of the grille will prevent it from sitting securely in the bumper cover, leading to rattling noises, especially at idle or over rough roads.
Pro Tip: Minor cosmetic damage like small rock chips on the platinum grey finish is common and may not warrant a replacement. However, any crack near a sensor mounting point should be considered serious, as it can compromise sensor alignment.
Buying a Used 2013-2014 Audi S8 Grille: A Step-by-Step Inspection Guide
Due to the high cost of a new OEM grille, a used part is an excellent value. However, a thorough inspection is critical to ensure you get a usable part that won't cause problems later. Aftermarket grilles are available, but many owners in forums report issues with fitment, sensor bracket quality, and long-term durability of the finish, making a used OEM part the safer choice.
Inspection Checklist:
- Verify Vehicle Options: First, confirm the options on the donor vehicle or the features of the grille itself. Check for the presence of mounting points for ACC radar, the night vision camera bracket, and front camera provisions. Match these to your vehicle's requirements.
- Inspect All Mounting Tabs: This is the most critical step. Flip the grille over and carefully inspect every single plastic mounting tab around the perimeter. These tabs clip the grille into the bumper cover. Even one or two broken tabs can lead to a poor fit, gaps, and rattles.
- Check for Cracks: Flex the grille slightly and look for hairline cracks, especially around the outer frame and sensor mounting locations. A small crack can grow from engine vibration and temperature changes.
- Examine the Finish: Look for signs of peeling on the chrome twin-slats and the main surround. Check the platinum grey plastic for deep gouges or signs of a poor-quality repaint, which might be hiding previous damage.
- Confirm Sensor Brackets are Intact: Ensure all molded brackets for parking sensors, cameras, and ACC radar units are present and free of cracks or damage. Repairing these is often impossible.
Grille Replacement Overview
Replacing the grille on a 2013-2014 Audi S8 is an involved process that is not recommended for beginners.
- Installation Difficulty: 4 out of 5.
- Key Step: The entire front bumper cover must be removed to access the clips that hold the grille in place. This involves removing the wheels, wheel arch liners, and numerous bolts and screws in the engine bay and on the undertray.
- Sensor Connections: All sensors must be carefully disconnected before the bumper is removed and reconnected after installation.
- ADAS Calibration: This is a crucial consideration. Any time the front bumper is removed or the ACC radar sensors are disturbed, a calibration is highly recommended to ensure the safety systems function correctly. Failure to calibrate can lead to disabled safety features or, worse, improper function in an emergency. This procedure requires specialized equipment and can be costly.
Cost of a 2013-2014 Audi S8 Grille
Prices can vary significantly based on the source and condition of the part. The potential need for ADAS calibration should always be factored into the total cost.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $800 - $1,800 | Varies by part number and dealer. For example, part 4H0-853-651-H-T94 has an MSRP of over $1,200. |
| New Aftermarket | $250 - $1,100 | Wide range of quality. "RS Style" honeycomb grilles are common. Fitment and sensor compatibility can be a gamble. |
| Used OEM | $200 - $600 | Best value. Price depends heavily on condition, especially the integrity of mounting tabs and finish. |
| Shop Labor (Installation) | $300 - $500 | Based on 2.5-4 hours of labor for bumper removal and installation. |
| Shop Labor (ADAS Calibration) | $400 - $1,500 | Highly variable. Independent specialists are often cheaper ($400-$800) than dealerships ($800-$1,500+). |
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Audi or the NHTSA for the grille itself on 2013-2014 S8 models. However, several recalls exist for other components on these vehicles, including the sunroof, fuel lines, and a turbocharger oil strainer. While not directly related to the grille, TSBs and general knowledge about the ADAS systems confirm the sensitivity of the sensors and the need for proper calibration after any related service.
OEM Part Numbers
The following is a list of known OEM part numbers for the 2013-2014 Audi S8 and related A8 models. This list is not exhaustive, and variations exist. Always verify compatibility based on your vehicle's specific options.
- 4H0807679D
- 4H0807679G
- 4H0807679G2ZZ
- 4H0807679G3FZ
- 4H0807679M
- 4H0807679MT94
- 4H0807680AC
- 4H0807680AC3FZ
- 4H0807680AD
- 4H0807680AD-T94
- 4H0807680ADT94
- 4H0853651ABT94
- 4H0853651N
- 4H0853651NT94
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an S8 grille on my standard A8?
Not directly. The S8 grille is shaped to fit the more aggressive S8 front bumper cover. While some enthusiasts have made it work, it typically requires swapping to an S8 bumper or significant custom modification.
Do I absolutely need to recalibrate my cruise control after a grille replacement?
If your car has Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and the sensors were moved, calibration is strongly recommended for safety. Even if no warning light appears, the system's accuracy could be compromised, affecting its ability to judge distances and react properly.
Why are used OEM grilles often recommended over new aftermarket ones?
Used OEM grilles guarantee perfect fitment and correct sensor mounting locations, as they were made by Audi for the car. Aftermarket grilles, especially cheaper ones, can have poor fitment, require modification to install, and use lower-quality materials that may not hold up over time.
What is the difference between the S8 grille and the W12 grille?
For the 2013-2014 pre-facelift models, the S8 grille features platinum grey plastic with chrome-finished twin horizontal bars. The rare W12 model featured a grille with a stainless steel mesh pattern.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4H0807679D 4H0807679G 4H0807679G2ZZ 4H0807679G3FZ 4H0807679M 4H0807679MT94 4H0807680AC 4H0807680AC3FZ 4H0807680AD 4H0807680AD-T94 4H0807680ADT94 4H0853651ABT94 4H0853651N 4H0853651NT94
Material: Primarily ABS plastic with chrome-plated accents. Finish: Platinum Grey with chrome twin-bar horizontal slats.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi S8:
- Grille Variations for the 2013-2014 Audi S8
- Key Variants to Identify:
- Common Symptoms of Grille Failure
- Buying a Used 2013-2014 Audi S8 Grille: A Step-by-Step Inspection Guide
- Inspection Checklist:
- Grille Replacement Overview
- Cost of a 2013-2014 Audi S8 Grille
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
- OEM Part Numbers
- Frequently Asked Questions
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