Does anyone have any experience with the alternator on this engine? It looks to me like the bumper and radiator have to come off to get to it which doesn't sound like something I could/should do. I've done it on other cars before but they were usually pretty easy to get it. Does anyone know of a step by step guide or even just some tips for this one? Thanks!

 

Its much easier to do with the front end pulled forward in "service mode" as audi likes to call it. Its not as hard as you think, find a DIY for doing a timing belt and use that procedure for removing/pulling the front end forward, but skip the step about removing the coolant hoses, you can leave those hooked up, you only need a few inches to get the alternator out. Once its pulled forward you can go to town.