When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hi everyone, looking for some advice for a huge task, I have the following situation, I have an 2013 A7 3.0 bitdi 313ps, in almost perfect condition fully equiped with almost every option, an Audi Exclusive interior, air suspension, matrix headlights, etc. but unfortunately the engine is dead, not worth repairing, which I will be using as a donor car.
I also have another 2013 A7 with the same exact engine and gearbox but with all airbags deployed and no front end but radiators intact as it was in an accident, low miles but with almost no options and basic interior.
I think you’ve guessed what I will be doing, I will take EVERYTHING from the first car and install on the one with a good engine, I know it is a huge task, but, nonetheless, here we are.
I think that except the ECU and gearbox control unit, I will be changing every module and wiring, is that correct?
Also, how hard will it be to install the air suspension?
Edit : as everyone suggests, I know that it would be easier to swap the engine, but long story short, it’s the only solution I have, to keep the engine and gearbox and move all options.
Looking for any advice I can get,
Thank you
Last edited by Dragan.10; Dec 22, 2025 at 06:06 AM.
That'll be a big job. Hopefully you have a lift, lots of tools, and a couple buddies to help you out. I watched a video recently that shows the removal process...
From your write up it would seem less work to take the engine from the 2nd car and put it into the 1st car unless I am missing something.
Correct, long story, but I have to use the other car there is no other option unfortunately but to leave the engine and gearbox and move all options and interior from the first car.
That'll be a big job. Hopefully you have a lift, lots of tools, and a couple buddies to help you out. I watched a video recently that shows the removal process...
I will not touch the engine and gearbox from the car that is receiving all options and interior, I have tools, I have worked on my cars before and I have removed lots of interiors and worked on bodywork, but as far as retrofitting everything, this is something I have not done before.
Also, I will be doing most of the work if not all if possible.
Swap engine 2 into vehicle 1. End of story. You are likely looking at pulling everything down to the wire harness to make the swap from 1 into 2. Moving the air bags and sensors will be rough as well. With the 2nd car being hit already you are very likely looking at unibody straightening as well.
If this is not viable for you then get rid of both of them and get a new to you car. Swapping every thing from vehicle 1 into vehicle 2 is your worst option and will likely be a part time 12 - 24 month process.
I know it’s not what you want to hear but I 100% agree move the power train to the good chassis.
Just curious what is preventing you from moving the power train? One example @Bigvaglover pulled his V8 drivetrain and rebuilt half the engine in his outdoor parking lot using a harbour freight hydraulic lift table and jack stands.
I’m spoiled with a scissor lift and engine hoist
Last edited by AudiAllTheWay; Dec 29, 2025 at 06:12 AM.
Audi Recreates Crazy-Looking Speed Record Breaker From 1935
Slideshow: Audi has recreated one of the wildest machines of the pre-war speed-record era, reviving a streamlined V16 racer that originally exceeded 200 mph in 1935.
need advice - A7
