Opel Meriva A (2003-2010): How to Remove the Bumpers.

The Opel Meriva A is a compact minivan introduced in 2003, which quickly gained popularity due to its practicality and unique design. In different countries, this model is known under various names, making it a truly international car. For example, in the UK, it was sold as the Vauxhall Meriva, while in Brazil, it was marketed as the Chevrolet Meriva. In some Latin American countries, it is also known as the Chevrolet Meriva or Suzuki Solio (in Japan, but that's a different story).

Model Code and Body Type

The Opel Meriva A has the factory code X03 and belongs to the compact minivan segment. The body is a 5-door design, with a focus on maximizing space. One of the key features of the model is the rear doors with the FlexDoors system, which open against the direction of travel (like on a Rolls-Royce), significantly simplifying passenger entry and exit.

 

Model Description

The Meriva A was designed as a family car, combining compact dimensions with spaciousness. It offered a roomy interior with adjustable seats, allowing the space to be transformed according to the needs of passengers or cargo. Under the hood, you could often find petrol engines ranging from 1.4 to 1.8 liters, as well as diesel engines like the 1.7 CDTI.

The design of the Meriva A was quite unusual for its time: rounded shapes, a high seating position, and large windows created a sense of spaciousness and lightness. The car was positioned as a practical yet stylish choice for young families.

 

Bumper Material: Polypropylene, ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer, with 20% mineral filler. Marking >PP+EPDM-T20<.

 

Tools Needed for Removal:

  • Ratchet or wrench.

  • Clip removal tool.

  • Set of Torx bits or keys.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.

  2. In the opening in front of the radiator, unscrew two screws that secure the top part of the front bumper.

  3. Move to the wheel arches; for convenience, turn the steering wheel to the side.

  4. In the wheel arches, unscrew one screw on each side that secures the corners to the guide brackets in the fenders.

  5. Lie under the car and unscrew two screws and remove three clips from the underside.

  6. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper forward from the guide brackets in the fenders (be careful with the wires).

  7. In the lower grille, disconnect the connector from the temperature sensor or remove it.

  8. If fog lights are installed, disconnect their connectors.

  9. Installation is done in reverse order.

Opel Meriva A (2003-2010) front bumper mounting locations

Front bumper mounting diagram Opel Meriva A (2003-2010)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.

  2. Under the trunk lid, unscrew four blind Torx nuts (part number 90464556) that secure the top part of the rear bumper.

  3. From the underside, remove four clips.

  4. In the wheel arches, unscrew one screw on each side that secures the corners to the brackets in the fenders.

  5. Remove the bumper backward from the brackets in the fenders, being careful with the wires.

  6. Disconnect the connectors for the license plate lights.

mounting points of the rear bumper Opel Meriva A (2003-2010)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Meriva A (2003-2010)

 Interesting Facts

  • FlexDoors: The rear doors of the Meriva A opened against the direction of travel, a unique solution for cars in this class. This not only added convenience but also made the model recognizable.

  • Concept Car: The Meriva A was first introduced as a concept car at the Geneva Motor Show in 2002. The public was thrilled with its design and functionality, prompting Opel to move it into serial production.

  • Popularity in Europe: The Meriva A became one of the most popular minivans in Europe thanks to its affordable price and practicality. It was especially loved by families with children.

  • Successor to the Opel Agila: In a way, the Meriva A was the logical successor to the Opel Agila model, but with a more modern design and improved functionality.

  • Sport Version: Although the Meriva A was primarily positioned as a family car, there was also a sport version with a 1.8-liter engine, offering a more dynamic driving experience.

 

The Opel Meriva A is a car that proved practicality and style can go hand in hand. Its unique solutions, such as the FlexDoors, and its versatility made it a favorite among many families worldwide. Even years later, this model remains recognizable and in demand on the used car market.