The Bilstein B6 Performance 24-172936 is a monotube rear damper for the Audi A3 8P, built as an upgrade over the original shock and designed to run with the factory coil spring. Because the manufacturer intends it to pair with OE springs, ride height stays where Audi set it. Owners on user forums for the A3 platform report firmer, more controlled body motion on smooth pavement, though some describe a stiffer ride over broken road surfaces, so expect a sportier feel than stock. The B6 is aimed at stock ride height, while the B8 is intended for lowered cars.
Buyers looking for B6 rear shocks for a 2005 Audi A3, a 24-172936 monotube upgrade, or a stock-spring-compatible Bilstein rear damper will find this unit's specifications below. The manufacturer lists a yellow painted finish, a stem-type upper mount, and a 14.2 mm eye lower mount, with an extended length of 583 mm and a collapsed length of 373 mm. Dust boots and spring seats are not included, so reuse your existing hardware. Replacing the rear dampers as a pair keeps handling balanced, and this is the fitment detail to confirm against your VIN before ordering.
The manufacturer lists neither a boot nor a spring seat as included with the 24-172936, so plan to reuse your existing components.
The manufacturer states the B6 Performance is designed to be paired with the OE factory spring, so it is intended to keep stock ride height.
The manufacturer lists a quantity of two per vehicle, which points to buying a pair for the rear axle. Owners on user forums also recommend replacing both sides together for balanced handling.
Owners on user forums describe the rear shock on the A3 as one of the easier suspension jobs on this platform, since the rear unit has no spring mounted over it, unlike the front struts. The usual approach is to raise the car, support it on jack stands at the proper points, and remove the rear wheel. Owners report two upper bolts and one large lower bolt, reached with a ratchet and a long extension, with a wrench often needed on the opposite side of the lower fastener. Removing the wheel-well liner makes access easier, and one owner noted that the rear passenger-side evaporative canister may need to be moved aside. Avoid supporting the car by the suspension component you are working on. Confirm torque values in the service documentation before reassembly.
