Zumkopf

Yep, I know it's a taste thing. And paying $600 to get the front end refinished because of paint chips on the front bumper is not to my taste, nor my wallet's, at the moment. Does anyone know of a source for the black nose bra to fit a '98 A8? (The clear paint protector won't help, the paint is already pocked.) Thanks, Marty
1998 A8Q S8 suspension

cad

It fits like OJ's glove! Only concern is that it makes closing the hood a tight fit. Not sure if other brands fit the same. The good news is no flapping at highway speeds. I can't remember what I paid but think it was just over $120.

awdinut

have to look at an ugly sight every day? The stone chips are only visible when you're 2' away but the bra can be seen a block away!

KjellA

Exactly the question I always asked about this. I never saw a good answer...

cad

Not recommended for everyday use as dirt and water can collect underneath. But for trips it helps with rocks,bugs etc.

Zumkopf

Yes, the bras are ugly too. The only question is which bothers more. As of now, since I still can't find a source for the bra, the question is academic.

DutchDoofus

Forget those horrible looking bra's. Go for the transparant film solution.

mAgnum8

^^^^Agree^^^^

Terrybill

I've used the same Colgan bra every day of every winter since 2000 on my 97 which came to me like yours, already rock chipped. According to their website (below) it's still available from Colgan but now a $25 up charge for custom build. A little shopping might get you a better deal or one left in stock somewhere.

From experience (not conjecture) I can tell you that the most critical part of bra usage is a quality bra and a tight fit. It's the movement of the bra that causes scratches. A quality bra like a Colgan doesn't flap around in the wind, grinding the crap into what remains of your paint.

There's no question that water and grit finds its way under the bra but it washes off in the spring with no apparent ill effects. I have had a couple of springs where there was a little moisture induced cloudiness in a couple of spots on the bumper (no clue if it was ever repainted). After a couple of weeks fresh air there was no sign of it.

Some might suggest frequent on and off for cleaning and drying but the reality is that if you're going to drive in the winter you're not going to keep the back side clean and dry. I just accept that and leave well enough alone until spring. YMMV

My bride's new cars get the clear 3M film for the Minnesota salt and sand attack. The 12-year-old A8 battles the elements with its nine year old bra. (There's a sagging joke in there somewhere)

http://www.colgancustom.com/