SaltyIrishman

Starting a new post as my last bump a few months back didn't get action--another post here: https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a8-...-coat-2806451/

Several mentioned that these channels [the thin strip that is between top of door and roof] can be removed for paint. I'm taking mine in Monday to get repainted and wanted to see if there was any guidance on removal and reinstall.

Thanks!

Audiheavy

As I recall they're just a pressure fit. If you have a set of the plastic trim removal tools try gently prying them from either the front or the rear... which ever one you can get the better purchase with. I'm on the west coast, so mine didn't have much in the way of winter road grit in it and they came out pretty easily. If you're not comfortable prying them out, I'm sure the body shop you'll be using can get 'em off rather quickly. Cheers!

chokboywonda

Yes very easy to remove but avoid bending them out of shape

SaltyIrishman

Thanks for the tips--board member Triad forwarded this diagram as well, wanted to add to the thread for any future searchers:

Shark_V8

Diagram has a grade-school error in it.

SaltyIrishman

You mean the windshield being at the rear of the car? Noticed that

tjf

What kind of price did you get on repainting the car?

SaltyIrishman

It was more than reasonable--$180 to repaint the channels only, not repaint the whole car. I have used this shop before for a bumper respray in the past and they do very good work.

awdinut

Do any of the components in the diagram have to be re-newed when doing an R&R ?

SaltyIrishman

My body shop had no issue clipping them in and out with no damage at all