Opel Vectra A (1988–1995): How to Remove the Bumpers

Opel Vectra A - The First Car in the Vectra Lineup
The Opel Vectra A was the first model in the Vectra series, produced from 1988 to 1995. However, it was sold under different names in some countries:

United Kingdom - Vauxhall Cavalier Mk3 (because the Opel brand wasn't used there, and Vauxhall was the local version of the marque).
Japan - Opel Vectra (but with right-hand drive and special modifications for the local market).
Australia and New Zealand - Holden Vectra (GM's division marketed it under their own brand).
USA and Canada - Pontiac LeMans (yes, this was a rebadged Vectra, but with a Daewoo body, which led to its failure due to poor quality).

Bumper Material
Polypropylene, ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer. Marking >PP+EPDM<

Bumper Removal Process
Both front and rear bumpers are removed together with their metal reinforcement bars. The reinforcement is held in place by clips. The bumper mounting system isn't the most reliable, plus after years of use, you should look for additional screws or bolts that may have been added - only whoever installed them knows their exact locations. The procedure is as follows: unscrew everything you can find around the perimeter and try to release the clips. If something won't budge, look for additional fasteners. The factory mounting points are listed below.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. From the engine compartment side, unscrew the two bolts that secure the reinforcement brackets to the frame rails.

2. In the wheel arches, unscrew one screw on each side.

3. Unscrew four screws from underneath that secure the wheel arch liners.

4. Release the sides from the clips in the fenders.

5. With an assistant, remove the bumper evenly by pulling it forward.

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid.

2. Unscrew one screw on each side in the wheel arches.

3. Unscrew four screws from underneath.

4. Unscrew two nuts that are installed from inside the trunk and secure the reinforcement brackets to the rear trunk panel.

5. Release the clips that secure the sides to the fenders.

6. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward, disconnecting the license plate light.

Model Description
The Vectra A replaced the outdated Opel Ascona and was offered in body styles:

Sedan (classic three-box design),
Hatchback (five-door, more sporty appearance),
Station Wagon (Caravan, with increased trunk space).

Engines included gasoline (from 1.4 to 2.0 liters) and diesel (1.7 TD). Power output was modest - from 75 to 150 hp (GSi version with 2.0-liter engine). Front-wheel drive and soft suspension made it a typical "family car" - not sporty, but comfortable.

Interesting Facts

Almost a "BMW" - In 1990, Opel wanted to release a Vectra with all-wheel drive and a 2.0 turbo engine (204 hp), but the project was canceled due to high costs.
Taxi Legend - In Germany and Eastern Europe, the Vectra A (especially the diesel version) became a popular taxi due to its durability.
Racing Career - In the 1990s, the Vectra competed in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC), but without much success.
Victim of Cost-Cutting - The American Pontiac LeMans based on the Vectra failed due to Daewoo's cheap assembly and quickly disappeared from the market.
Secret Modification - In Sweden, there was a version with reinforced suspension and all-wheel drive from Hirsch Performance, but very few were made.

Conclusion
The Vectra A didn't become iconic like the Golf or BMW E30, but it laid the foundation for more successful generations. Today it's rarely seen on the roads - most have either rusted away or been dismantled for parts. But if you find a well-maintained example - it's a piece of European automotive history from the late 80s!