RS4 B8 towbar

[Raph C]

Hi guys,

I want to install a towbar to carry a bicylce rack on my Audi RS4 B8. I am told this is not possible because of homologation issues. Not sure why but I will not fight this one.

However, does anyone know if it is technically feasable? I could buy an Audi Avant towbar and fit it myself for example.

Thank you in advance for your comments and advice.

Raph.

[J886ATV]

Been asked before - AFAIK no RS cars are homologated to tow

https://forum.rs246.com/viewtopic.php?f=61&t=1... discusses exactly your issue. This thread talks about the Westfalia bar / but Tow Trust are another brand that fit nicely to B8s (I have one on my S4)

[graeme4130]

That's right, it's not homologated to tow
The problem is that no towbar fitting company will fit one as they'll be liable in the case of a crash
I looked into it in some detail when I had my B8 RS4 and found nothing

[catso]

Can't imagine the fitment is any different to a similar age A4 or S4, and my S4 has 'towbar preparation' according to the spec sheet (seems to consist of a cutout under the rear bumper).

RS4 may not be homologated for towing but I don't see why it would not be physically possible to fit a towbar, or even tow something?

[Adrian E]

I suspect DIY may be the easiest option - no reason I'm aware of that it can't be made to work, but will need VCDS to code the electrics correctly, and assumes the manufacturer hasn't locked out the options to configure towing for the model type (I doubt they will).

Although the lack of homologated approval would mean you were on dodgy territory if towing anything with wheels touching the ground, I see no issues in law if you're only using it to attach a bike rack.

If you're clear about the purpose of fitting (ie you won't be towing) most will probably allow you to sign a waver and will fit for you

[quigonjay]

Sorry for the thread revival.
I had always assumed that with not being able to option a towbar on the B9 RS4 that, as with the above link amongst other discussions the around the net, that you where not allowed to tow with said car.
I then came across the following video -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-nDwHZWNQs

So i asked the question -
"Does this not invalidate the warranty with the RS4 not being homologated for towing?"

as you can see fro the comments the reply was -

"this vehicle is homologated to tow. Towing specification is displayed on the vehicles VIN plate"

I am confused (easily done)
Seems there are conflicting views on the this issue.

[Adrian E]

Hiya

It's 'possible' that even if Audi don't specify a towbar option for the B9 RS4 through the configurator it may still be approved for towing. Only way to know for sure is to look at the VIN plate for one and see if a train weight is quoted (weight of car plus towed load). If it is, then it's homologated for towing. if it's not, then you shouldn't, but wouldn't stop you fitting one to use with a cycle carrier.

That towbar fitting centre, if it's the one I'm thinking of, is closely aligned with the towbar manufacturer. I'd be very surprised if they were doing anything that wasn't fully legit.