Tow Bar S4 Avant

[chrisb72]

I know there are going to be few wide eyed people reading this thread, but I’m considering fitting a detachable tow bar to my S4 Avant to be used with a bike carrier.

I’m wanting to know if anyone has done this as a retro fit and has photos?

My biggest worry is what the rear valance will look like afterwards and how visabke the tow bar socket will be once it is detached.

I’ve found a few pictures of A4 Avants with aftermarket tow bars but not an S4.

For anyone that isn’t bored at this point I’m thinking of fitting a Westfalia detachable tow bar as this is apparently OEM.

In terms of bike carriers I’m thinking either a Thule 927 or Whispbar T31.

Thanks for reading this post.

 

[Spearo]

Done it with that exact hitch can take some snaps in the morning. I had the fitters make the cut out in the bumper bigger as it was originally cut at a very minimal size but operating the hitch release wheel was a problem.

Btw - you can’t see the hitch receiver or foldable electric socket once removed....

 

[Robbe]

I have a factory fitted tow at on the S4. Wouldn’t know I have one.

Post #140 is my s4 with bike rack attached
https://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/new-s4-order.340698/page-4

 

[chrisb72]

Done it with that exact hitch can take some snaps in the morning. I had the fitters make the cut out in the bumper bigger as it was originally cut at a very minimal size but operating the hitch release wheel was a problem.

Btw - you can’t see the hitch receiver or foldable electric socket once removed....

I'll look forward to seeing these.

I'd be interested to see just how low you have to be to actually see the bumper cut when the bar is removed.

Out of interest how much was yours fitted? I've been quoted £585 including 7 pin electrics (specific vehicle). I've shopped around quite a bit and can't find cheaper for this make of tow bar in my area.

I can't see everyone being too impressed by this fitment to an S4 especially when it comes to resale, but as a keen cyclist and a growing family who are getting into cycling I see this as the best option to carry bikes. I did consider fitting a roof rack bike rack system , but the thought of 3 maybe 4 bikes on waggling in the wind on the roof of the car fills me with fear!

 

[Spearo]

Don’t worry about what people might think .... the car is for you to use and enjoy... don’t go threatening to fit a light bar - you’ll be a complete outcast then !
About 600 quid fitted was about what I paid.

 

[Spearo]

Pics of the install

 

[chrisb72]

Thanks for the pics. I see what you mean about it being hidden.

Any idea if Audi make a rear valance with the hole for the tow bar pre cut? The hole for your retro bar does look quite big.

 

[Spearo]

Don’t know - maybe someone on here can help ? I suspect not tho because if the original Audi spec is foldable , there maybe isn’t any need for a valance with cut out.
My cut out isn’t big and anyway unless you’re lying on the floor behind the car you can’t even see it, So for me size isn’t an issue!