: While it makes the car look newer, some buyers are wary of "converted" cars as it can hide past accident damage. Keeping photos of the process can help prove the conversion was purely for aesthetics.
The facelift conversion process can vary depending on the specific kit you choose and the complexity of the installation. However, here's a general overview of what you can expect:
Beyond the visible body parts, a conversion requires a significant amount of consumables and hardware: new crash bars (often different between models), washer bottle reservoirs (which can interfere with new headlight leveling motors), custom wiring adapters, and fresh clips/retainers for the trim. audi a3 8v facelift conversion new
Your factory pre-facelift Central Electrics Module (BCM) might not natively recognize or have the power profiles for the newer LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and dynamic indicators.
The most noticeable change. Pre-facelift 8V headlights are rounded, while facelift headlights have a distinctive notched bottom edge. : While it makes the car look newer,
Unbolt the hood and front fenders carefully, labeling all factory hardware. Phase 2: Structural Mock-up
Older BCM units may not support the voltage signatures or communication protocols of newer LED daytime running lights (DRLs). You may need to upgrade your BCM to a high-line version. However, here's a general overview of what you
When Audi released the 8V generation of the A3 (2012–2020), it set a benchmark for premium compact cars. However, in 2017, Audi dropped the mid-cycle facelift (FL). The changes weren’t just cosmetic; they sharpened the car’s aggression, improved lighting technology, and modernized the digital interface.
While the level of mechanical and electrical difficulty is high, the process is well-documented across enthusiast forums, and a thriving ecosystem of OEM, aftermarket, and used parts makes it achievable. For the dedicated DIYer with patience and a willingness to research, it's a fantastic project. For others, sourcing the parts and then commissioning a professional for the installation and coding might be the best path. Whichever route you choose, the end result—a unique, modern, and personalized Audi A3—will be a proud testament to your effort and vision.
To achieve a full factory-like facelift, you generally need the following components from the 2017+ model year:
Purchasing high-quality conversion parts costs a fraction of the price of trading your car in for a newer model. The Core Components: What You Need
: While it makes the car look newer, some buyers are wary of "converted" cars as it can hide past accident damage. Keeping photos of the process can help prove the conversion was purely for aesthetics.
The facelift conversion process can vary depending on the specific kit you choose and the complexity of the installation. However, here's a general overview of what you can expect:
Beyond the visible body parts, a conversion requires a significant amount of consumables and hardware: new crash bars (often different between models), washer bottle reservoirs (which can interfere with new headlight leveling motors), custom wiring adapters, and fresh clips/retainers for the trim.
Your factory pre-facelift Central Electrics Module (BCM) might not natively recognize or have the power profiles for the newer LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and dynamic indicators.
The most noticeable change. Pre-facelift 8V headlights are rounded, while facelift headlights have a distinctive notched bottom edge.
Unbolt the hood and front fenders carefully, labeling all factory hardware. Phase 2: Structural Mock-up
Older BCM units may not support the voltage signatures or communication protocols of newer LED daytime running lights (DRLs). You may need to upgrade your BCM to a high-line version.
When Audi released the 8V generation of the A3 (2012–2020), it set a benchmark for premium compact cars. However, in 2017, Audi dropped the mid-cycle facelift (FL). The changes weren’t just cosmetic; they sharpened the car’s aggression, improved lighting technology, and modernized the digital interface.
While the level of mechanical and electrical difficulty is high, the process is well-documented across enthusiast forums, and a thriving ecosystem of OEM, aftermarket, and used parts makes it achievable. For the dedicated DIYer with patience and a willingness to research, it's a fantastic project. For others, sourcing the parts and then commissioning a professional for the installation and coding might be the best path. Whichever route you choose, the end result—a unique, modern, and personalized Audi A3—will be a proud testament to your effort and vision.
To achieve a full factory-like facelift, you generally need the following components from the 2017+ model year:
Purchasing high-quality conversion parts costs a fraction of the price of trading your car in for a newer model. The Core Components: What You Need
