While the mechanical fitment is straightforward (the mounting points on the chassis rails are identical), the electronics are the true challenge.
In the world of compact luxury hatchbacks, the Audi A3 8V (produced from 2012 to 2020) is a staple of sophisticated design. However, in 2016, Audi introduced the mid-cycle refresh (facelift), delivering a sharper, more aggressive aesthetic that left many pre-facelift owners feeling dated.
For enthusiasts who want the modern look without the depreciation hit of buying a brand-new car, the "facelift conversion" has become one of the most popular modifications in the Audi community. This feature breaks down what a conversion entails, the necessary components, and the technical hurdles owners face.
Do the conversion if:
Do NOT do the conversion if:
The Audi A3 8V facelift conversion is a rewarding, high-skill modification that modernizes a great chassis. Just remember: The metal bolts on. The electricity fights back. Code wisely.
Upgrading your Audi A3 8V (2013–2016) to the sharper, more modern facelift (2017–2020) look is a popular project for enthusiasts. This "facelift conversion" involves replacing key exterior components like the bumper, grille, and headlights to match the updated design language. Key Components for the Conversion
To achieve a complete facelift look, you will need to source specific parts. While some aftermarket kits simplify this process, using genuine OEM parts ensures a better fit. Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
Complete Front Bumper 8V5807065AE 8V5807065AF Compatible With AUDI A3 Limousine (8VS, 8VM) | A3 / S3 (2016-2020) Tag No.4 audi a3 8v facelift conversion new
Do not buy a junkyard front bumper and expect it to fit. Here is the full inventory for a complete conversion.
Problem: After swapping the MMI or Virtual Cockpit, the screen shows "Component Protection Active." Solution: Only an Audi dealer or a specialized tuner with online ODIS access can remove this. It costs roughly $150-$250.
If you are searching for "Audi A3 8V facelift conversion new," you are likely looking for that fresh-off-the-lot aesthetic. However, be warned: The pre-facelift car uses a CAN-bus gateway that doesn't speak fluent "Matrix LED."
If you just plug the new lights in without coding, you will get the dreaded "Dazzle Me" error (okay, it’s actually just a bulb-out warning, but still). You need VCDS or OBD11 coding to tell the car it suddenly grew up. Do NOT do the conversion if:
Before committing to OEM parts, consider aftermarket "Facelift-style" conversions. Brands like VLAND and Spec-D produce headlights that mimic the FL look but are designed to plug directly into your Pre-FL harness with built-in resistors. These cost ~$400 and require no BCM coding. They are not OEM quality (beam pattern is worse), but they offer 90% of the visual upgrade for 20% of the cost.
For the uninitiated, Audi dropped the "Facelift" (8V2) in 2017. The headlights got sharper (Matrix LEDs), the bumper vents grew larger and angrier, and the rear lights switched to a sweeping "scroll" indicator. Inside, the MMI screen got bigger and the air-con controls went digital.
But here is the secret Audi doesn't want you to know: The chassis didn't change. Not one millimeter. The mounting points for the bumpers, the fenders, and the hood are identical.