Renault Megane II 2002–2009: How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Facelift

The Renault Mégane II is the second generation of the popular compact car from the French brand. The model was produced from 2002 to 2009, replacing the first Mégane (1995–2002). In 2005, the car underwent a facelift that affected the exterior, interior, and technical components.

 

Key stages:

• 2002 – Debut of the hatchback, followed by sedan (Thalia), station wagon (GrandTour), coupe-cabriolet (CC), and minivan (Scénic II on the same platform).
• 2005 – Update: Revised grille, bumpers, lighting, new engines, and improved sound insulation.
• 2008–2009 – Gradual discontinuation due to the launch of the Mégane III.

 

Model Code and Platform

The Mégane II was built on the Renault-Nissan C platform, also used in the Nissan Tiida. Body codes:

• Hatchback – LM0/1
• Station wagon – KM0/1
• Sedan – FM0
• Cabriolet – EM0/1

 

Design and Features

The car stood out for its unconventional design, especially the hatchback with its "iron-shaped" sloping rear. While controversial, this styling set the Mégane II apart from competitors like the VW Golf and Ford Focus. After the 2005 facelift, the design became more restrained, with more traditional lighting.

The interior featured improved materials compared to the first generation, though some parts (e.g., dashboard plastic) remained hard. The layout was well thought out, with comfortable seating for the driver and passengers.

 

Technical Specifications

Engines (European market):

• Petrol:
  • 1.4 (98 HP)
  • 1.6 (115 HP)
  • 2.0 (136 HP)
  • Turbocharged: 1.4 T (130 HP), 2.0 Turbo (165–225 HP in the RS version).
• Diesel:
  • 1.5 dCi (85–110 HP)
  • 1.9 dCi (120–130 HP).

Transmission:

• 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes;
• 4-speed automatic (pre-facelift petrol versions);
• CVT (after 2005).

Suspension:

• Front: MacPherson strut;
• Rear: Semi-independent torsion beam (budget versions) or multilink (premium versions).

 

Plastic Bumper Markings >P/E-TD10<

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Depending on the production year and body type, bumper mounting points may vary slightly.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Start from the top—open the hood.
2. Remove six push-pins securing the upper part of the front bumper. To release a push-pin, turn its center pin 90°.
3. Move to the underside:
   • Unscrew three bolts holding the bumper shield (note: these bolts often break).
4. In the wheel arches:
   • Remove two screws on each side securing the fender liners to the bumper.
   • Behind the left liner, disconnect the fog light wiring harness.
5. Release the clips in the fenders by pulling the bumper corners outward.
6. Detach the fasteners under the hood.
7. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward to remove it.

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How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Remove the taillights.
2. Behind the taillights:
   • Pull out two clips (for station wagons, unscrew four bolts).
3. Underside:
   • Remove the screws securing the lower part of the bumper (fastened upward).
4. Wheel arches:
   • Unscrew two bolts on each side holding the fender liners to the bumper.
5. Move the liners aside and remove one bolt per side securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
6. Release the fender clips by pulling the corners outward.
7. Pull the bumper backward and disconnect any electrical connectors.

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Interesting Facts

• The Mégane II Renault Sport (RS) with a 2.0L turbo (225 HP) became a cult favorite among hot hatch enthusiasts, featuring hydraulic steering and a sport-tuned suspension.
• The Mégane CC cabriolet had a retractable hardtop and was one of the most affordable in its class.
• In 2003, the Mégane II earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, a strong result for its time.

 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Reliability – Many components (especially naturally aspirated petrol and 1.5 dCi diesel engines) are known for longevity.
• Comfort – Good sound insulation (post-facelift) and soft suspension.
• Safety – Sturdy body and generous equipment (up to 6 airbags, ESP).
• Design – Memorable styling, particularly the RS version.

Cons:

• Electronics – Sensor and wiring issues (common in 2000s Renaults).
• Rust – Weak spots: sills, wheel arches, rear suspension mounts.
• CVT – Unreliable in early models, expensive to repair.
• Multilink rear suspension – Requires maintenance (bushings wear out).

 

Conclusion

The Renault Mégane II is a typical European C-segment car of the 2000s, offering stylish design, comfort, and decent performance (especially the RS). However, age-related issues (electronics, rust) make buying a used example risky without thorough inspection.