Volvo S60 I / V70 II 2000–2009: How to Remove the Bumpers

In the early 2000s, Volvo introduced two important cars that continued the brand's tradition of reliability, safety, and understated design. These were the first-generation S60 (sedan) and the second-generation V70 (station wagon), produced from 2000 to 2009. Despite their different body types, these models shared a platform and many technical solutions, becoming popular in Europe and North America.

Body Types and Facelift

S60 I – A classic four-door sedan that replaced the outdated Volvo S70. It featured smooth body lines, a distinctive rounded grille, and recognizable headlights. In 2005, the model underwent a facelift: the lighting, bumpers, and grille were updated, and new interior trim materials were introduced.

V70 II – A station wagon that succeeded the first-generation V70. It retained Scandinavian practicality: a spacious trunk, a comfortable interior, and the option of all-wheel drive. In 2004, the wagon was also updated—the front-end design was slightly tweaked, sound insulation was improved, and new engines were added.

Both models were based on the Volvo P2 platform, which was also used for the larger S80 and the XC90 SUV. This meant a sturdy body structure, high passive safety standards, and a comfortable suspension.

Bumper Plastic (May Vary)

Polypropylene plus a triple copolymer of ethylene, propylene, and diene, with 20% mineral filler. Marked as >PP+EPDM-TD20<

Depending on the production year, the mounting points may differ slightly. Note that some factory mounts used aluminum rivets, which need to be drilled out. When reinstalling, clips or screws are usually used instead of rivets. Rivets are rare, but if your bumper has never been removed before, be prepared to use a drill and drill bits.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Open the hood.
2. Under the hood, remove six push pins (first press the center pin, then pull out the fastener).
3. Remove two push pins from the underside.
4. Unscrew the bolts in the wheel arches.
5. Release the trim under the headlights (you don’t need to remove them completely—just free the parts closest to the grille) and unscrew two bolts underneath.
6. On early versions, unscrew the nuts and remove the headlight washers. On later versions, pull out the washer nozzles, remove the metal brackets, and take off the covers along with the nozzles (this is easier than removing the covers separately).
7. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward you, then forward).
8. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward to remove it.
9. Disconnect the fog light connectors.

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid.
2. In the trunk, remove the floor trim and take out the battery (you need access to the inner part of the rear panel).
3. Through the holes in the rear panel, use a socket wrench to unscrew four nuts (be careful not to drop them into the hidden cavity).
4. Unscrew four bolts from the underside (threaded upward).
5. Unscrew the bolts in the wheel arches that secure the sides.
6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward you and backward).
7. Release the clips under the taillights.
8. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward to remove it (watch for wiring).
9. Disconnect the parking assist connectors (if equipped) and antenna connectors.

Technical Features and Engines

Under the hood, the S60 and V70 offered both gasoline and diesel engines. Gasoline options included:

• 2.4L naturally aspirated (140–170 HP) – Reliable but not very dynamic.
• 2.5L turbocharged (T5) – 210–260 HP, the most popular choice for speed enthusiasts.
• 2.3L turbocharged (R) – In the high-performance Volvo S60 R and V70 R, it produced 300 HP, with all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension.

Diesel engines (mainly the 2.4D and D5) offered fuel efficiency and torque, especially valued in Europe. Transmission options included a 5- or 6-speed manual or a 5-speed Geartronic automatic.

Safety and Comfort

Volvo has always been renowned for its safety technologies, and the S60/V70 were no exception. Standard features included airbags, stability control, and ABS. Optional extras included cruise control, xenon headlights, climate control, and a premium audio system.

The interior followed Scandinavian minimalism: comfortable seats with good lateral support, ergonomic controls, and high-quality materials. The V70 station wagon, of course, had the advantage of a huge trunk (up to 1,600 liters with the seats folded).

Interesting Facts

• The Volvo S60 R and V70 R were high-performance versions with a 300 HP engine, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension. They were designed as competitors to the BMW M3 and Audi S4 but with typical Swedish restraint.
• In 2007, a Flexifuel version was introduced, capable of running on bioethanol (E85).
• The Volvo V70 was often used by emergency services in Europe due to its reliability and spaciousness.
• In 2009, both models were discontinued, making way for a new generation on the Ford EUCD platform.

Conclusion

The Volvo S60 I and V70 II are typical representatives of Swedish automotive engineering—not the flashiest in appearance but reliable, safe, and practical. The sedan offered performance (especially in the T5 and R versions), while the wagon provided space without sacrificing comfort. Today, these models are valued for their robust build and character—if you find a well-maintained example, it can serve for many more years.