Opel Vivaro A (2001-2014): How to Remove the Bumpers

The first generation of Opel Vivaro, known as Vivaro A, became a milestone in the history of European commercial vehicles. Debuted in 2001, this medium-sized van quickly gained popularity due to its practicality and reliability. What makes it particularly interesting is that it traveled under different names in many countries, and its history includes several curious developments.

What Vivaro A Was Called in Other Countries

Opel Vivaro A was the result of a joint development between General Motors and French Groupe PSA. This collaboration made it a "twin" to several models:

• Vauxhall Vivaro - sold under this name in the UK (Vauxhall brand belongs to Opel)

• Renault Trafic II - French version with different front-end design and its own engines

• Nissan Primastar - Japanese variant, nearly identical to Opel but with different badging

Interestingly, in Australia and New Zealand, Vivaro A was sold as Holden Vivaro - a rare case when a European model temporarily replaced local commercial vehicles.

Model Refresh and Evolution

In 2006, Vivaro A underwent its first facelift. Changes included:

• Updated radiator grille with more modern chrome-trimmed design

• New bumpers with improved aerodynamics and styling

• Redesigned dashboard with more ergonomic controls

• Additional options like ESP stability control and improved sound insulation

Despite updates, the platform remained unchanged, with the same engine options: 2.0L petrol and 1.9 CDTI turbodiesels (ranging from 90 to 120 hp).

Depending on the production year, mounting points may vary slightly.

How to Remove Front Bumper

1. Lift and secure the hood in open position

2. Under the hood, remove five screws (three post-facelift) and release clips to detach the grille with its panel

3. Remove three screws located beneath the grille (inserted top-down)

4. Remove one screw on each side securing the bumper edges

5. Turn wheels alternately for better access to wheel arches

6. Remove two screws per side in the wheel arches

7. Remove license plate and the screw beneath it

8. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper forward off its wing guides (mind the wiring)

9. Disconnect electrical connectors if additional equipment is installed

How to Remove Rear Bumper

The rear bumper consists of center and two side sections:

1. First remove center section by removing three top screws and releasing three bottom clips

2. Side sections are secured with four screws each (refer to diagram for exact positions)

Model Description: Practicality and Drawbacks

Vivaro A was offered in three body styles:

• Panel van - payload up to 1.2 tons, cargo volume up to 5.2 m³

• Passenger minivan (Opel Vivaro Tour) - up to 9 seats

• Double cab chassis - for specialized conversions

The interior was spacious but utilitarian - hard yet durable plastics. The driver's position was comfortable, though long-wheelbase high-roof versions required getting used to the dimensions.

Key Advantages:

• Fuel-efficient diesel engines (~8-9L/100km)

• Durable suspension designed for heavy loads

• Smart body geometry - wide doors and low loading height

Main Drawbacks:

• Unreliable high-pressure fuel pumps in early diesels (common GM issue)

• Rust-prone sills and wheel arches in regions using road salt

• Cheap interior materials

Interesting Facts:

• The Nissan Primastar was marketed as "Japanese" despite its European origins

• Widely used as police and ambulance vehicles across Europe

• Appeared in European films/TV shows like German crime series "Coburg 11"

• Production continued until 2014 as budget option despite second-gen launch in 2011

Conclusion
The Opel Vivaro A represents a successful European automotive alliance. Despite its no-frills interior, it became a workhorse for businesses large and small. Its Renault and Nissan twins proved that even in commercial vehicles, design and branding matter. Today, Vivaro A remains popular on the used market, valued for its repairability and toughness. While replaced by newer models, the original Vivaro maintains cult status among tradespeople and entrepreneurs.