sleeping buffalo

I just got a 2003 A8L quattro 4.2L the year suggests D3 but the images look like D2. I am having conflicting descriptions as to the rear brakes one being they are electric (parking brake that is) for the D3's and manual for the D2's I can not find an electric servo on the rear calipers. So do I need the VAG/COM to replace the pads? This car is cool but working on it can be quite trying.

silverd2

If you're in the USA, the year suggests D2...manual parking brake.

In the US, 2004 is the 1st D3.

No VagCom needed to change brake pads...just the proper "twist-while-it-compresses" piston tool, as with most rear disc brakes >>>

http://www.ebay.com/itm/11pc-Car-Truck-4WD-Caliper-Wind-Back-Disc-Brake-Pad-Piston-Comprossor-Tool-Set-/281142892799?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item41756c18ff&vxp=mtr

sleeping buffalo

Thanks that clears up quite a bit.

nossisnave

In 2003 Audi introduced the D3 body but only in short-wheelbase form; the D2 body remained as L trim only. Long-wheelbase D3 came in '04. If your's in an '03 L, the it's a D2.

silverd2

In what country?

There were no short wheel base D3's in the USA until the 2005 models...no such thing as a SWB 2004 D3 A8 in the USA...no such thing as a 2003 D3 in the USA.

All A8L's (only...no SWB) sold in the USA starting in late 2003, as with all brands of cars, were 2004 models and only D3 L's...completely different body, air suspension, etc...

Euro models were sold/released on a completely different schedule, about a year ahead of USA models. A 2003 A8 in Europe is generally a D3...a 1999 Euro A8 is generally a facelift model D2...USA Models started FL D2 model in 2000.

nossisnave

You are correct, my apologies for the incorrect info about when the D3 came to the states.