VW EuroVan (1992-2003): How to Remove the Bumpers

History, Modifications, and Interesting Facts

The Volkswagen EuroVan is a series of minivans and microvans produced from the early 1990s to the mid-2000s. The model was a continuation of the legendary Volkswagen Transporter (T4) lineup and was primarily aimed at the North American and European markets. Unlike the classic commercial versions of the Transporter, the EuroVan was positioned as a family vehicle with enhanced comfort.

 

Production Years and Generations

The Volkswagen EuroVan was produced in two generations:

  • First generation (1992–1999) – Based on the T4 platform (Typ 7D). In the U.S., it was sold as the EuroVan, while in Europe, it was marketed as the Volkswagen Transporter or Caravelle.
  • Second generation (1999–2003 in the U.S., until 2004 in Europe) – An updated version of the T4 with a redesigned front end and improved safety. In the U.S., the model was discontinued in 2003 due to stricter environmental regulations.

 

Main Modifications

The EuroVan was available in several variants:

  • Passenger minivan (EuroVan MV / Weekender) – A 5- or 7-seater version with three rows of seats. The Weekender trim featured a fold-out bed and a mini-kitchen, making it popular among camping enthusiasts.
  • Cargo-passenger version (EuroVan GLS) – A more comfortable variant with upgraded trim and additional features.
  • Camper (EuroVan Camper) – A special travel version developed in collaboration with Westfalia. It included a pop-up roof, a refrigerator, and other camping amenities.

In Europe, the equivalents were:

  • Transporter – The commercial version.
  • Caravelle – The passenger variant with enhanced comfort.
  • Multivan – The premium trim with leather seats and upgraded multimedia.

 

Bumper Plastic Markings: >PP EPDM< or >PP<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1992-1997

  1. Remove the license plate along with its frame.
  2. Under the license plate, pull out two plugs and unscrew the two bolts beneath them.
  3. (If present) Unscrew two bolts in the wheel arches and two bolts from the underbody.
  4. With an assistant, pull the front bumper forward off the guides in the fenders.

VW EuroVan Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

1997-2003

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Unscrew the bolts and remove the radiator grille.
  3. Remove the turn signals.
  4. Under the turn signals, unscrew two bolts (fastened from bottom to top).
  5. Release the clips in the fenders and remove the metal trim beneath the headlights and radiator grille.
  6. Under the trim, unscrew four bolts securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  7. Unscrew two bolts in the wheel arches and two bolts from the underbody.
  8. With an assistant, pull the front bumper forward off the guides in the fenders.

VW EuroVan radiator grille mounting diagram

VW EuroVan Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

1992-1997

  1. Open the tailgate.
  2. In the tailgate opening, pull out two plugs and unscrew the two bolts beneath them, then release the fasteners.
  3. Unscrew two bolts from the underbody.
  4. With an assistant, pull the rear bumper backward off the guide rails in the fenders.

VW EuroVan rear bumper mounting diagram

1997-2003

  1. Open the tailgate.
  2. In the tailgate opening, unscrew two bolts.
  3. Unscrew six bolts from the underbody (fastened from bottom to top).
  4. Unscrew two bolts in the wheel arches securing the sides.
  5. With an assistant, pull the rear bumper backward off the guide rails in the fenders.

VW EuroVan rear bumper mounting diagram

Technical Features

The EuroVan was equipped with various engines depending on the market:

  • Gasoline:
    • 2.5L R5 (110–150 hp) – The main engine for the U.S. market.
    • 2.8L VR6 (174 hp) – A more powerful option available in later versions.
  • Diesel (for Europe):
    • 1.9L TDI (75–102 hp) – Fuel-efficient but underpowered for the heavy body.
    • 2.4L (78–110 hp) – A naturally aspirated diesel, the most reliable but not very dynamic.

Transmissions included a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. The drivetrain was exclusively front-wheel drive (unlike the earlier rear-wheel-drive T3).

 

Why Did the EuroVan Become a Cult Classic?

  • The last "analog" Volkswagen – simple mechanics, minimal electronics, and high repairability.
  • Unique design – a boxy body with round headlights, embodying the recognizable 1990s style.
  • Camper versions – Westfalia Campers are still highly sought-after among travelers.
  • Rarity in the U.S. – Due to low sales and a short production run, it became a collector’s item.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Failure in the U.S. – Despite attempts to adapt the EuroVan for Americans, sales were low due to its high price and competition from cheaper models like the Chrysler Voyager and Dodge Caravan.
  • Westfalia Campers – Today, these modified versions sell for more than their original price due to growing demand for "van life."
  • Safety – In 1990s crash tests, the EuroVan scored poorly, especially in side-impact tests.
  • Electric Version – In 1994, VW unveiled the EuroVan EV concept with an 80 km range, but it never entered mass production.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen EuroVan is more than just a minivan—it’s a symbol of its era, combining practicality and nostalgic charm. Despite modest sales, it left a mark on automotive history, particularly in the camper niche. Today, well-preserved models are highly sought after by collectors and "van life" enthusiasts.