Mazda 2 / Demio (2007–2014) How to Remove Bumpers

Mazda 2 / Demio (2007–2014) how to remove bumpers.

The second generation Mazda 2 (known as MK2) is a compact hatchback that gained popularity in many countries due to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and Japanese character. Let's examine what it was called in different parts of the world, when it was produced, what modifications were available, and what interesting facts are associated with it.

 

Names in Different Countries and Production Years

The second generation Mazda 2 debuted in 2007 and was produced until 2014 (longer in some countries). However, it had different names depending on the region:

• Europe, Russia, Australia, Japan: Mazda 2 (in Japan also Demio, but this name was more commonly used for the first generation)

• USA and Canada: Starting in 2011, the Mazda 2 was sold under its own name, but in 2014 it was replaced by the Mazda Demio (returning to the Japanese name)

• Asia and Latin America: In some countries (e.g., China), the model was produced as Mazda Demio even in the second generation

Interestingly, in Japan the Mazda 2 MK2 was officially called Mazda Demio only until 2011, after which it switched to the global Mazda 2 name following the facelift.

 

Model Code and Platform

The internal designation for the second generation is DE. The car was built on the Mazda DJ platform, which was also used for the Ford Fiesta and Mazda Verisa. This was a joint development between Mazda and Ford, explaining the similarity to the European Fiesta of those years.

 

2011 Facelift

In 2011, the Mazda 2 received a subtle but noticeable facelift:

• The radiator grille was changed (becoming more similar to the "smile" of the Mazda 3)

• New wheel designs were introduced

• The front and rear bumpers were slightly updated

• Interior materials were improved

There were almost no technical changes, but visually the car looked fresher.

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP-(S22+T16)<

 

How to Remove Front Bumper

1. Lift and secure the hood

2. Under the hood, remove six clips and unscrew two bolts securing the radiator grille and upper part of the front bumper

3. From underneath, unscrew six bolts and remove two clips securing the lower part (screwed and inserted from bottom up)

4. In the wheel arches, unscrew one bolt on each side securing the corners to brackets in the fenders

5. Release the fasteners in the fenders (grab the corner and pull sharply toward yourself)

6. With an assistant, remove the front bumper forward (being careful not to damage wires)

7. If equipped, disconnect fog light connectors

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How to Remove Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid

2. In the trunk opening, unscrew two bolts securing the upper part of the rear bumper

3. In the wheel arches, remove three clips on each side and release the fender liners (rear portion)

4. From underneath, unscrew two bolts and remove two clips (screwed and inserted from bottom up)

5. Release the fasteners in the fenders (grab the bumper corner and pull sharply toward yourself)

6. Release the fasteners under the taillights

7. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward (being careful with wires)

8. Disconnect electrical connectors

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Body Types and Modifications

The Mazda 2 MK2 was offered in two body styles:

• 5-door hatchback - the most popular version in Europe and Russia

• 4-door sedan - rare in Europe but popular in Asia and North America

Engine options varied by region:

• 1.3L (75–86 HP) - basic naturally aspirated engine, economical but not very powerful

• 1.5L (102–115 HP) - optimal choice for city and highway

• 1.6L (115 HP) - used in the sporty Mazda 2 Sport version in Europe

• 1.4L and 1.6L diesel - for the European market (particularly popular in Germany and France)

Transmissions included 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (after facelift, some markets received a more modern 6-speed automatic).

 

Model Description: Why Was It Popular?

The Mazda 2 MK2 is a typical compact class representative but with Japanese reliability. The car was light (about 1 ton weight), making it nimble even with weaker engines. The suspension - front MacPherson strut, rear torsion beam - provided good handling.

The interior was simple but comfortable. Build quality was high, especially compared to contemporary Chinese or Korean competitors. Thanks to compact dimensions (about 3.9m length), the Mazda 2 was ideal for cities, while the trunk (250–500L) could carry all necessities.

 

Interesting Facts

• In 2010, the Mazda 2 received 5 stars in EuroNCAP crash tests - an excellent result for a small car

• Japan had a hybrid version with 1.3L gasoline engine that didn't gain popularity

• In 2012, the Mazda 2 won several rally stages in S1600 class, proving even a small car can be sporty

• In Mexico and some Latin American countries, the sedan version was produced until 2018 - longer than in other regions

 

Conclusion

The second generation Mazda 2 is an excellent example of a compact but reliable car. It wasn't the most powerful or luxurious in its class, but won owners' hearts with Japanese quality, efficiency, and pleasant driving dynamics. Even years after production ended, these cars remain on roads - which speaks volumes.