VW Caddy II (1995–2004): How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model History

The second generation of the Volkswagen Caddy (Type 9K) was produced from 1995 to 2004. This model succeeded the first-generation Caddy, which was based on the Golf I platform. Unlike its predecessor, the Caddy II was developed jointly with SEAT and built on the SEAT Ibiza Mk2 (6K) and Volkswagen Polo Mk3 (6N) platforms, making it more compact and fuel-efficient.

Initially, the Caddy II was positioned as a light commercial van, but passenger versions were later introduced, including the five-seater Caddy Life minivan. Production took place in Spain at the SEAT plant in Martorell.

 

Volkswagen Caddy II Modifications

  • Caddy Van – A purely cargo version with two front seats and a solid rear partition.
  • Caddy Life – A passenger variant with five seats, side windows, and a more comfortable interior.
  • Caddy Kastenwagen – An intermediate version with glazed side doors but no rear seats.
  • Caddy Pick-up – A rare version with an open cargo bed, produced in limited quantities.

 

Technical Features

The Caddy II was offered with front-wheel drive and several engine options:

Petrol engines:

  • 1.4L (60 hp)
  • 1.6L (75–100 hp)
  • 1.8L (90 hp, early versions only)

Diesel engines:

  • 1.9 SDI (64 hp, naturally aspirated)
  • 1.9 TDI (75–110 hp, turbocharged)

Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic (petrol engines only).

The suspension featured a McPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, ensuring simplicity and a decent load capacity (up to 650 kg).

 

Plastic Bumper Markings: >PP/PE<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the three bolts securing the radiator grille.
  3. Remove the turn signals (press the latch with your finger and slide the turn signal forward).
  4. Inside the turn signal housing, unscrew two plastic nuts and remove the radiator grille.
  5. Behind the grille, unscrew two bolts securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  6. Turn the wheels outward.
  7. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts on each side securing the front part of the wheel liners.
  8. At the front, unscrew two bolts and remove the central decorative trim (held by clips).
  9. Behind the trim, unscrew two more bolts.
  10. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward off the guides in the fenders (grip the sides and pull straight forward).
  11. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

VW Caddy II Front Bumper Mounting Locations

VW Caddy II Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Inside the fenders, unscrew two bolts on each side securing the rear bumper.
  2. From underneath, unscrew three bolts (fastened upward) securing the brackets to the body.
  3. Release the clips in the fenders and, with an assistant, pull the bumper backward.
  4. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Caddy II

VW Caddy II rear bumper mounting diagram

Design and Interior

Externally, the Caddy II featured angular styling typical of mid-1990s Volkswagen models. Passenger versions offered a spacious interior with adjustable seats and a configurable rear row.

In cargo variants, the load volume reached up to 3.2 m³, with a cargo length of about 1.8 meters.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Joint project with SEAT – The Caddy II was co-developed with SEAT and had a twin model, the SEAT Inca, which only differed in badging and grille design.
  • Popularity in Europe – Thanks to its compact size and efficiency, the model became popular among small businesses (courier services, repair technicians).
  • Sport version concept – In 1999, a Caddy GTI concept with a 2.0 16V (150 hp) engine was showcased, but it never entered production.
  • Evolution into Caddy III – In 2004, the model was replaced by the third generation, based on the Golf V platform.

 

Reliability and Weak Points

The Caddy II was considered a reliable workhorse but had some common issues:

  • Rust – Particularly vulnerable on the sills and rear suspension mounts.
  • Turbo (TDI) – Required timely maintenance.
  • Electronics – Possible sensor and wiring failures in older units.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Caddy II is a practical and durable vehicle that remains on the roads thanks to its endurance and repairability. Despite modest performance, it remains a solid choice for commercial use or as a budget-friendly family car.