VW Bora (1998–2005) How to Remove the Bumpers

The Volkswagen Bora is a compact sedan produced by the German automaker from 1998 to 2005. The model succeeded the Volkswagen Vento and occupied a place in the lineup between the Golf and Passat. The Bora was known for its understated design, high-quality build, and diverse technical solutions, making it popular in Europe and other regions.

Production Years and Generations

The Bora was part of the fourth-generation Volkswagen A4 platform (which was also used for the Golf IV and Audi A3). Production began in 1998, and in 2005, the model was replaced by the fifth-generation Volkswagen Jetta. In some countries, such as China and Mexico, the Bora remained in production until 2008.

 

Modifications and Engines

The Volkswagen Bora was offered with a wide range of powertrains:

Gasoline Engines

  • 1.4L (75–100 HP)
  • 1.6L (100–105 HP)
  • 1.8L (125–150 HP, including the turbocharged 1.8T version)
  • 2.0L (115–150 HP)
  • 2.3L VR5 (170 HP)
  • 2.8L VR6 (204 HP, Bora V6 version)

Diesel Engines

  • 1.9L TDI (90–150 HP) – one of Volkswagen's most reliable engines at the time.

Transmissions included 5- and 6-speed manuals, as well as 4- and 5-speed automatics.

 

Trim Levels and Features

The Bora was available in several trim levels:

  • Trendline – Base version with minimal equipment.
  • Comfortline – Mid-range trim with improved interior finishes and additional features.
  • Highline – Top-tier version with leather upholstery, climate control, and other premium elements.

Depending on the market, the car could be equipped with:

  • Electric power steering (instead of hydraulic).
  • 4Motion all-wheel drive (on high-performance versions).
  • Sport suspension (in versions tuned by subsidiaries, such as the Bora R).

 

Design and Technical Features

The Bora inherited design cues from the Golf IV but in a more classic sedan body. The model was notable for:

  • A rigid body with good sound insulation.
  • Modern (for the late 1990s) passive safety features (airbags, ABS, ESP in top trims).
  • A comfortable cabin with ergonomic controls.

 

Bumper plastic marking: >PP+EPDM-T10<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Release the radiator grille from its clips (pull toward you and upward).
    • If you want to remove the grille, release the hood latch lever from its fasteners.
    • If you don’t need to remove the grille, simply lift it upward.
  3. Under the radiator grille, unscrew the five bolts securing the top part of the front bumper.
  4. Turn the wheels to the side.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew four bolts on each side that secure the fender liners (front part) and the sides.
  6. Remove the decorative covers on the front (held by clips).
  7. Under the covers, unscrew one bolt on each side (if present, remove the temperature sensor).
  8. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward off the guides in the fenders (hold the sides and pull forward).
  9. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

VW Bora Front Bumper Mounting Locations

VW Bora Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. From inside the trunk, unscrew three nuts on each side and remove the rear taillights.
  3. Under the taillights, unscrew two bolts (inserted top to bottom) securing the top part of the rear bumper.
  4. From underneath, unscrew three bolts (inserted bottom to top) securing the lower part.
  5. (If present) Remove the splash guards.
  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners.
  7. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper backward off the guides in the fenders (hold the sides and pull backward).
  8. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Bora

VW Bora rear bumper mounting diagram

Sports Versions and Tuning

The Bora V6, with its 2.8L VR6 engine (204 HP) and 4Motion all-wheel drive, was particularly notable. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and was considered one of the most dynamic in its class.

Tuned versions from ABT Sportsline and Oettinger were also available, offering increased power and improved handling.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Name origin – The Bora was named after the cold wind in the Adriatic region, continuing Volkswagen’s tradition of naming cars after natural phenomena (Passat, Golf, Jetta are all wind-related).
  • American counterpart – In the U.S., the model was sold as the Jetta, as the Bora name did not gain traction there.
  • Chinese Bora – Production in China continued until 2008, and the name was later revived for a separate budget model.
  • Reliability record – Diesel 1.9 TDI engines with over 500,000 km are not uncommon, showcasing their durability.
  • Motorsport involvement – The Bora was used in rally and circuit racing, particularly in Latin America and Eastern Europe.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Bora is a classic example of late 1990s to early 2000s German automotive engineering: understated, high-quality, and practical. Though it never achieved the cult status of the Golf, it earned a reputation as a reliable daily driver. Today, the Bora remains popular on the used car market due to its ease of maintenance and availability of parts.