Freelander II / RL2 (2006-2015) - How to Remove Bumpers

Introduction

The Land Rover Freelander II, also known as LR2 in North America and RL2 in Japan, represents the second generation of the popular compact SUV from the British manufacturer. Produced from 2006 to 2014, it earned a reputation as a reliable and versatile vehicle combining urban comfort with genuine off-road capabilities.

 

Model Code and Facelift

The Freelander II was based on the EUCD platform developed by Ford and shared with models like Volvo XC60 and Land Rover Discovery Sport. Internally designated as L359, it was marketed as RL2 in some regions like Japan.

In 2010, the Freelander II received a minor facelift featuring:

• New radiator grille with Range Rover-inspired design

• Redesigned bumpers and LED daytime running lights

• Updated instrument panel with LCD display

• Improved interior materials

In 2012, the special "Black Edition" was introduced featuring:

• Darkened grille

• Black alloy wheels

• Exclusive interior trim

 

Bumper material (may vary): Polypropylene + ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer with 12% mineral filler. Marking: >PP+EPDM+PD12<

 

Front Bumper Removal Guide

1. Open the hood

2. Remove four bolts securing the upper bumper section and two bolts per side attaching the headlights

3. Release the clips and remove headlights

4. Through headlight openings, remove one screw per side securing brackets to fenders (recommended to remove bumper with brackets)

5. Underside: Remove four side screws and two plastic retainers (turn 90° with flathead screwdriver)

6. Release lower cover clips and remove two bolts

7. Turn wheels left/right alternately to access wheel arches

8. Remove screws and clips securing front wheel arch liners

9. Behind liners, remove one screw per side (fastened bottom-up) securing brackets

10. With assistant, carefully pull bumper forward (mind wires and hoses)

11. Disconnect fog light connectors

12. Detach headlight washer hose (fluid will drain)

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Rear Bumper Removal Guide

1. Open tailgate

2. Remove two screws per side and detach rear lights

3. Behind lights, remove two screws

4. Release clips and remove upper trim panel (clips near tailgate)

5. Remove five clips beneath trim panel (inserted top-down)

6. Underside: Remove six screws (fastened bottom-up)

7. Remove screws securing rear wheel arch liners

8. Move liners aside and remove two screws per side

9. Release fender clips (pull toward you)

10. With assistant, carefully pull bumper rearward (mind wiring)

11. Disconnect electrical connectors

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Model Description

The Freelander II offered more technology and comfort than its predecessor with:

• Fully independent suspension

• Permanent four-wheel drive

• Terrain Response system for various surfaces (gravel, snow, sand, mud)

Engines:

• Petrol:

  • 3.2 i6 (233 HP) - Volvo-sourced six-cylinder

• Diesel:

  • 2.2 TD4 (150-190 HP) - Most popular option

Transmission:

• 6-speed manual or automatic

• 4th-gen Haldex AWD system

 

Interior Features:

• Heated leather seats

• Dual-zone climate control

• Premium navigation and audio

• Rearview camera and parking sensors

 

Interesting Facts

• Final Freelander model - Replaced by Discovery Sport in 2014

• Volvo connection - Shared components with Swedish models

• Off-road capability - Competent despite compact dimensions

• Special versions - South America/Australia received Ford 2.0L turbo petrol

• Extreme testing - Validated from -40°C to +50°C

 

Conclusion

The Freelander II successfully balanced urban comfort with off-road ability. While not as luxurious as Range Rover models, it offered impressive quality at reasonable pricing. Today it represents excellent value on the used market.

Compared to rivals like BMW X3 or Audi Q5, it excelled off-road while being less sporty/prestigious. Remains one of the last "true" Land Rovers before electrification.