Post

How to Replace Audi A3, S3 Front Dash Air Vent Grilles

A Turo renter broke one of my front dashboard air vents. Here's how to replace it!

Intro

Another post in my series of Audi-related posts. This time I’m going to be replacing the front dashboard air vent grille (for lack of a better word). This is the vent that will direct air towards the driver or passenger window to prevent it from fogging up due to condensation.

It’s very easy to replace. There’s four “clips” on each grille which keep it in place with the dash. Two on the top of the grille and two on the bottom of the grille.

Tools Required

  • Flathead screwdriver
    • I purchased this set from Amazon (affiliate link) and have used it countless times for various repairs throughout the years. It has had the bit that I needed nearly every time. I highly recommend it.

Removing the Grille

To remove the grille, grab a flathead screwdriver, slide it into the top of the grille, pull the grille towards you to slightly squeeze the grille and disengage the top two clips, then lift the grill upwards.

GIF of removing the grille Removing the front driver dashboard air vent grille. Higher quality here

Inserting the Grille

To insert the grille, rotate it such that the vents will direct air onto the window (and not towards the windshield). Then insert it at an angle such that the bottom two clips are nearly in place, then push the top of the grille into place. When done successfully, you should hear a “click” letting you know that the clips have engaged into the proper location.

GIF of inserting the grille Inserting the front driver dashboard air vent grille. Higher quality here

Are the Grilles Interchangeable?

I tried to insert the passenger (right) front dash air vent grille into the driver (left) but no luck. Unfortunately, the two grilles are not symmetric and are not interchangeable.

Replacing the Grilles

I wish there was a file to 3D print these, it would be like $1 of plastic, but I could not find any files online.

Be extra careful when purchasing, make sure you get the correct side vent. As previously mentioned, the driver (left) and passenger (right) vents are slightly different. Searching by the specific part number (8V1-819-793 or 8V1-819-794) is normally a safe bet. Note that sometimes the distributors are lazy and show a preview image for the incorrect side. Ensure the part number and side (driver = left, passenger = right) are as you expect.

Text on the Driver (Left) Grille

1
2
3
4
8V1.819.793
PBT ASA GF10

LHD / Drv.

Image of the back of the driver grille Back of the front driver dashboard air vent grille

Text on the Passenger (Right) Grille

1
2
3
4
5
8V1.819.794
PBT ASA GF10
1180329X
Nozzel Bezel Pas. LHD
LHD / Pas.

Image of the back of the passenger grille Back of the front passenger dashboard air vent grille

Purchasing new Grilles

I purchased from audiusaparts.com, but I imagine you would have similar success purchasing from Audi directly or even eBay.

 

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.

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