profeSEANal

My mechanic says that I have to remove the whole front bumper as well as the A/C compressor in order to replace the starter. Is there another way to do it?

HBAudi

Your mechanic is correct. The front bumper must be removed and the front carrier placed into the service position to gain access to all the bolts. Removal of the starter motor also requires moving the air conditioning compressor as well.

Placing the front bumper into the service position is not difficult, but it also requires removal of the removal of the noise insulator panel beneath the engine.

Reggie

Yep - if you are going to do it yourself get a Bentley Manual and look at the tech area here and look at the timing belt replacement - which will get you almost the same steps.

Audi0s

I didnt need to do that at all. Its about a 2hr job. Just did mine a month ago. The starter is no where near the ac compressor, its under the exhaust manifold.

4Driver4

What engine is in your car? The starter is under the turbo and behind the AC compressor on the AEB.

Audi0s

Youre right youre right its behind the ac, just looked. I just did mine though and I didnt remove the compressor or pull the bumper. 97 1.8. Try without it first, maybe because I have a lift it was easier to access?