Renault Laguna I 1993–2001: How to Remove the Bumpers

Countries and Years of Production

The Renault Laguna I debuted in 1993 as a replacement for the outdated Renault 21. Production of the first generation continued until 2001, after which it was succeeded by the Laguna II. The car was primarily manufactured in France (at plants in Sandouville and Dieppe) but was also assembled in other countries, including Spain and Turkey.

 

Model Code and Modifications

The Laguna I platform was designated as X56. Main body variants included:

• 5-door hatchback (the most popular version);
• 4-door sedan (less common, produced for certain markets);
• Grandtour station wagon (introduced in 1995).

 

Model Description

Design and Construction

The Laguna I featured a streamlined design considered modern and aerodynamic for the 1990s (Cx = 0.32). The exterior showcased smooth lines, integrated bumpers, and a distinctive radiator grille with chrome trim.

The interior offered a spacious cabin with decent ergonomics for its time. Base versions came with fabric upholstery, while top trims featured leather and wood accents.

 

Technical Specifications

The car was built on a front-wheel-drive platform with a McPherson front suspension and a semi-independent rear beam. Engine options included:

Petrol:

• 1.6 L (90 HP)
• 1.8 L (107 HP)
• 2.0 L (115–140 HP)
• 3.0 L V6 (170–194 HP, rare option)

Diesel:

• 1.9 L (90 HP, naturally aspirated)
• 1.9 L (107 HP, turbo)
• 2.2 L (115 HP, turbo)

Transmission options were a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.

 

Bumper Plastic Markings >P/E<

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Depending on the production year and body type, bumper mounting points may vary. Before unscrewing any bolts, always treat them with penetrating lubricant.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

Locating the bumper mounting bolts is not difficult, but removing them can be tricky. Start with the lower bolts, which are screwed upward from the underside—remove these first. Next, move to the wheel arches: pull back the fender liners to access the inner side of the bumper. Behind the liners, unscrew the bolts securing the bumper to the wing brackets. Post-facelift models also have a bolt behind the license plate. With an assistant, slide the bumper forward off the guide brackets in the wings.

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How to Remove the Rear Bumper

Hatchback/Sedan:

1. Open the trunk lid.
2. Remove the rear panel trim and unscrew the two nuts underneath.
3. From the underside, remove the bolts securing the shields and two bolts between the bumper and rear panel.
4. Inside the wheel arches, behind the fender liners, unscrew two bolts.
5. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward off the guide brackets in the wings.

Station Wagon:

1. Open the trunk lid and unscrew four bolts in the opening.
2. Remove the bolts on the underside securing the underbody protection to the bumper and the bumper to the body.
3. In the wheel arches, free the fender liners from the bumper.
4. Unscrew one bolt on each side securing the bumper to the wings.
5. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward off the guide brackets in the wings.

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Interesting Facts

• Innovations: The Laguna I was the first mass-produced car to feature keyless entry (Hands-Free card, 1998).
• Safety: In 1994, it earned 4 stars in Euro NCAP tests—a high rating for the time.
• Sport Version: The 1995 Laguna Biturbo (2.0 L, 205 HP, AWD) was produced but sold poorly due to its high price.
• Film & TV: The car appeared in French movies and series, such as the comedy Taxi (1998).

 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comfortable suspension—handled bumps well.
• Spacious cabin (especially the Grandtour wagon).
• Low noise levels compared to rivals.
• Affordable spare parts (relevant for CIS countries).

Cons:

• Unreliable electronics—frequent sensor and wiring issues.
• Poor corrosion resistance—body rusted faster than German competitors.
• Expensive diesel maintenance (fuel pump, injectors).
• The automatic transmission was considered "slow" and inefficient.

 

Conclusion

The Renault Laguna I is a typical representative of 1990s French automotive engineering: comfortable but not without flaws. Despite its shortcomings, it was popular in Europe due to its competitive pricing and innovations. Today, it is a rare sight but may interest collectors, particularly early versions with carbureted engines or the rare V6.