Renault Megane III 2008-2016: How to Remove the Bumpers

The Renault Mégane III is the third generation of the popular compact car from the French brand, produced from 2008 to 2016. This model succeeded the Mégane II and featured a more modern design, improved technical components, and a higher level of safety.

Production Years and Facelift

• Debut and Start of Production: The Mégane III was first introduced in 2008 at the Paris Motor Show, with serial production beginning at the end of the same year.
• Facelift (2012): In 2012, the model was updated—changes included the front end (new radiator grille, bumper, headlights), the addition of LED daytime running lights, an upgraded multimedia system, and minor interior refinements.
• End of Production: In 2016, the Mégane III was replaced by the fourth generation (Mégane IV).

Model Code and Platform

• Body Styles:
  • Hatchback (LZ0/L44): 5-door version, the most popular.
  • Sedan (LZ1/LF1): 4-door sedan, sold as the Fluence in some countries.
  • Estate (KW0/K44): Station wagon (sold as Mégane Grandtour in Russia).
  • Coupe (DZ0/D44): 3-door version (marketed as Sport Tourer in some regions).
  • Cabriolet (EZ0/E44): Soft-top convertible.
• Platform: The Mégane III is built on the Renault-Nissan C platform, which was also used, for example, in the first-generation Nissan Qashqai.

Design and Interior

The Mégane III's exterior became more dynamic compared to its predecessor, featuring smooth lines, narrowed headlights, and pronounced wheel arches. Inside, higher-quality materials, an ergonomic instrument panel, and comfortable seating were introduced. After the 2012 facelift, a touchscreen (in top trim levels), a redesigned steering wheel, and new decorative inserts were added.

Bumper Plastic Markings >E/P-I-TD10<

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

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Start from the top side—open the hood.
2. Unscrew the six screws securing the upper part of the front bumper (inserted from top to bottom). Note: One screw may be hidden under the air intake.
3. Move to the lower side—access the underside of the car. Unscrew the seven screws securing the bumper shield (inserted from bottom to top).
4. Proceed to the sides. In the wheel arches, unscrew two screws on each side securing the fender liners to the bumper. Push the fender liners aside and unscrew one screw on each side (inserted from top to bottom) securing the corners to the brackets in the wings.
5. Release the clips in the wings by pulling the bumper corners toward you with moderate force. Note: Alternatively, you can unscrew the bolts securing the brackets to the wings instead of releasing the clips.
6. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward and disconnect the electrical connectors.

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Upper side—open the trunk lid and remove two plugs in the opening.
2. In the trunk's side trim, open the covers and unscrew two plastic nuts underneath (for the station wagon, there will be four plastic nuts), then remove the rear lights.
3. Under the rear lights, unscrew two screws on each side securing the upper part of the rear bumper.
4. From the underside, remove five clips (or screws, if present) securing the lower part.
5. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts, remove the splash guards, and free the rear part of the fender liners from the bumper.
6. Behind the fender liners, remove one clip on each side (or screws, if present) securing the bumper corners to the brackets in the wings.
7. Release the clips in the wings, pull the corners toward you, and remove the bumper backward.
8. Disconnect the license plate light and parking sensor wiring harnesses.

Technical Specifications

• Engines (European Market):
  • Gasoline:
    • 1.2 TCe (115 HP) — turbocharged, fuel-efficient.
    • 1.6 (110 HP) — naturally aspirated, base option.
    • 2.0 (140 HP) — for dynamic driving.
  • Diesel:
    • 1.5 dCi (90–110 HP) — the most popular, with low fuel consumption.
    • 1.9 dCi (130 HP) — a more powerful option.
    • 2.0 dCi (150–160 HP) — for the station wagon and sportier versions.
• Transmissions:
  • 5- or 6-speed manual.
  • 6-speed automatic (for 1.5 dCi and 2.0).
  • CVT (only in some markets).
• Suspension:
  • Front—MacPherson strut.
  • Rear—semi-independent torsion beam (base) or multi-link (top versions).

Safety

The Mégane III received a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (2009) thanks to multiple airbags, ESP stability control, and a robust body structure.

Interesting Facts

• Renault Mégane RS (250 HP): A high-performance version with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, active suspension, and a Nürburgring record (2011) for front-wheel-drive cars.
• Electric Version: The Mégane III Electric was showcased in 2011 but never entered mass production.
• Rally Heritage: The Mégane III was used in WRC R3-class rally events.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Reliable diesel engines (1.5 dCi).
  • Good handling (especially with multi-link suspension).
  • Spacious trunk in the station wagon (524 L).
  • High safety standards.
• Cons:
  • Underpowered base gasoline engines (1.6).
  • Stiff suspension in sport versions.
  • Outdated 4-speed automatic transmission (on some early models).
  • Occasional electrical issues (in some units).

Conclusion

The Renault Mégane III is a successful model offering a good balance of price and quality. After the 2012 facelift, the car became even more comfortable while maintaining reliability. The best choices are diesel versions with a manual transmission or post-facelift gasoline models. The sporty RS version remains highly regarded by driving enthusiasts.