fits model: B8, S5. make: Audi. year: 2008–2016.

( Manufacturer Part Number: 8T0854931 ), ( Part Type: Panel Molding ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 3 Months ), ( Color: Phantom Black Pearl ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Left, Right )
The **Audi 8T0854931 (08-16 B8 S5) Set of Rocker Panel Moldings** is a meticulously crafted, high-quality replacement part designed to restore the sleek, factory-finish appearance of your Audi S5 (B8) between the years 2008 and 2016. These rocker panel moldings are engineered to fit precisely along the lower body panels of your vehicle, bridging the gap between the doors and the wheel arches while enhancing both aesthetics and protection. Crafted from durable, high-grade thermoplastic, these moldings are resistant to UV degradation, fading, and environmental wear, ensuring they maintain their polished look for years to come. The design seamlessly integrates with the vehicle s body lines, offering a clean, modern finish that complements the sporty and refined styling cues of the S5. Beyond their visual appeal, these moldings serve a functional purpose by shielding the lower body panels from minor scratches, stone chips, and road debris, thereby preserving the paintwork and extending the longevity of your Audi s exterior. Whether you re restoring a classic S5 to its original showroom condition or simply upgrading the appearance of a well-loved vehicle, these rocker panel moldings provide a perfect blend of form and function, ensuring a professional-grade finish that meets Audi s exacting standards. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools, and the snap-fit design ensures a secure and long-lasting hold without the need for adhesives or additional hardware. With their attention to detail and commitment to quality, these moldings are an excellent choice for enthusiasts and owners who demand nothing less than the best for their Audi.
### Pros and Cons of buying a Audi Rocker Panel Molding (Part Number: 8T0854931, Model Years: 2008-2016, B8 S5)
#### **Pros:**1. **Authentic Fit and Finish** This is an original Audi part, meaning it will fit perfectly without gaps or misalignment. It is designed to match the factory styling of your B8 S5, ensuring a seamless and high-quality appearance.
2. **Durability** Audi parts are generally built to last, especially those from the B8 S5 platform, which was known for its robust construction. The rocker panel molding is likely made from durable materials like ABS or reinforced plastic, resistant to UV fading, cracking, or warping over time.
3. **Resale Value Protection** Keeping your car with original or high-quality aftermarket parts helps maintain its resale value. Potential buyers often prefer vehicles that retain their factory aesthetic.
4. **Easy Installation** Since it s an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part, it should align correctly with minimal effort. Most owners can install it themselves with basic tools, though professional help may be needed if the existing molding is damaged or rusted.
5. **Aesthetic Consistency** The molding enhances the car s sporty, aggressive look, which is a key selling point of the S5. Replacing worn or damaged molding restores the car s original appearance.
6. **Protection Against Minor Damage** The molding acts as a secondary barrier against minor scratches, stone chips, and road debris, helping to preserve the underlying bodywork.
7. **Warranty Coverage** If purchased from an authorized Audi dealer or a reputable supplier, the part may come with a warranty, providing peace of mind against defects.
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#### **Cons:**1. **High Cost** OEM Audi parts are expensive, especially for a niche model like the B8 S5. The price may be significantly higher than aftermarket alternatives, which could offer similar or even better quality at a lower cost.
2. **Limited Availability** Finding the exact part number (8T0854931) may be challenging, particularly if you re not buying directly from Audi or an authorized dealer. Some suppliers may sell generic replacements that don t match perfectly.
3. **Potential for Counterfeit Parts** Buying from untrusted sellers (e.g., eBay, Craigslist, or unknown online marketplaces) risks receiving counterfeit or low-quality parts that don t fit or last. Always verify the seller s reputation and part authenticity.
4. **Installation Challenges** If the existing molding is rusted, damaged, or poorly attached, removal and reinstallation can be time-consuming. In some cases, bodywork repairs may be needed before fitting the new molding.
5. **Overkill for Minor Damage** If the current molding is only slightly scratched or faded, replacing it entirely may be unnecessary. In such cases, a simple touch-up or aftermarket trim strip could suffice.
6. **Weight and Aesthetic Trade-offs** While the molding adds to the car s appearance, some aftermarket options are lighter and may offer better weather resistance (e.g., rubberized or reinforced materials).
7. **Depreciation Consideration** If you plan to modify the car aggressively (e.g., lowering, widebody kits), the original molding may not suit the new aesthetic. In such cases, aftermarket options might be more flexible.
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### **Conclusion:**Buying the **OEM Audi rocker panel molding (8T0854931)** for your 2008-2016 B8 S5 is a solid choice if you prioritize **authenticity, durability, and resale value**. The part ensures a perfect fit and maintains the car s factory look, which is ideal for owners who value originality. However, the **high cost and potential availability issues** make it less ideal for those on a tight budget or those who prefer aftermarket alternatives.
If you re willing to invest in maintaining your car s original aesthetic and don t mind the expense, the OEM part is a reliable long-term solution. Alternatively, if you re open to alternatives, **high-quality aftermarket moldings** (from brands like **ABS, 3M, or Audi-specific suppliers**) often provide similar results at a fraction of the cost while offering additional benefits like better weather resistance or customization options.
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### **Recommendation:** - **Buy the OEM part (8T0854931) if:**- You want the most authentic look for your S5.
- You re willing to pay for a high-quality, long-lasting solution.
- You plan to keep the car in original condition for resale or concours shows.
- **Consider aftermarket alternatives if:**- You re on a budget and can find a well-reviewed aftermarket molding (e.g., **ABS or 3M trim strips**).
- You want additional features like UV protection, rubberized edges, or color options.
- The current molding is only lightly damaged and doesn t require a full replacement.
**Where to Buy:**- **Authorized Audi dealers** (most reliable but expensive).
- **Reputable online suppliers** (e.g., **RockAuto, eBay (verified sellers), or specialized Audi forums**).
- **Local Audi clubs or enthusiast groups** (often have trusted sources for parts).
Always **inspect the part upon arrival** and ensure it matches your vehicle s specifications before installation. If in doubt, consult with an Audi specialist or mechanic to confirm compatibility.
Shipping Info. The color in the photos may be different from real one. Warranty does NOT cover labor, diagnostic, towing, or rental car costs. If you don't want any surprises - keep in touch with a transporter yourself.
EXTERIOR COLOR: PHANTOM BLACK PEARL L8. Enter the yard by permission only. MILEAGE: 81,430. E-mail address to send a confirmation.
Company name and address;. Contact phone number of the receiving person;. For large items engines, doors, transmissions, body parts, etc. ENGINE: 4.2L CAUA AWD.
Trucks often run late, and they can come without a call at any time. Examples of these non-warranty parts include switches, sensors, cables, coils, wires, injectors, electronics, belts including timing belt/chain, hoses, water pumps, brackets, intake/exhaust manifolds, oil pans, and turbos/superchargers. Regular mail USPS, FedEx, UPS. REMOVED FROM: 2012 Audi S5 Prestige.
Please remember.