VW Golf 5 / Rabbit (2003-2009) How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Place in the Golf Lineup

The fifth generation of the Volkswagen Golf, known as the Rabbit in North America, was produced from 2003 to 2009. This model marked Volkswagen's transition to more modern technology and design while retaining the recognizable Golf characteristics. Sales began in Europe in 2003, while in the U.S. and Canada, it was reintroduced in 2006 under the old "Rabbit" name, which had been used for the first-generation Golf.

 

Design and Platform

The Golf V was based on the PQ35 platform, which was also used in the Audi A3, SEAT León, and Skoda Octavia. The car featured more rounded shapes, increased dimensions, and improved aerodynamics (Cx = 0.32). The body became stiffer due to the use of high-strength steel, enhancing safety and reducing cabin noise.

 

Variants and Engines

The engine lineup included both gasoline and diesel options:

Gasoline:

• 1.4L (75–80 HP)
• 1.6L (102 HP)
• 2.0L (115–150 HP)
• 2.5L (150–170 HP, U.S./Canada only)
• Turbocharged 1.4 TSI (122–170 HP) and 2.0 TFSI (200–230 HP in the Golf GTI).

Diesel (TDI):

• 1.9L (105 HP)
• 2.0L (140 HP)

Transmission options included 5- and 6-speed manuals, a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic, and the DSG dual-clutch transmission.

 

Bumper Plastic Markings: >PP+EPDM-TD10/TD6<. For Golf GT and Golf GTI models, the marking is: >PUR<

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How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Open the hood.
2. Under the hood, unscrew two bolts, release two clips with a flathead screwdriver, and remove the radiator grille upward.
3. Behind the radiator grille, unscrew four bolts securing the upper part of the front bumper.
4. Turn the wheels to the side for better access.
5. In the wheel arches, unscrew four bolts on each side securing the front part of the wheel liners.
6. Unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened from bottom to top) securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
7. From underneath, unscrew five bolts (fastened from bottom to top).
8. In the center grille, press two clips with a flathead screwdriver while pulling the bumper forward.
9. With an assistant, pull the front bumper forward off the fender guides (watch for wires and hoses).
10. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).
11. If equipped with headlight washers, disconnect the hoses.

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How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid.
2. Remove the side trunk trim panels (to access the rear taillight mounts).
3. Behind the trim, unscrew two nuts on each side, disconnect the wiring, and remove the taillights.
4. Below the taillights, unscrew two bolts on each side securing the upper part of the rear bumper.
5. From underneath, unscrew four (or six) bolts (fastened from bottom to top) securing the lower part.
6. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts on each side securing the rear part of the wheel liners.
7. Behind the liners, unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened from top to bottom; may have push rivets) securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
8. With an assistant, pull the rear bumper backward off the fender guides (watch for wires).
9. Disconnect any electrical connectors.

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Trim Levels and Features

In Europe, the Golf V was offered in several trims: Trendline, Comfortline, and Sportline. In the U.S., the focus was on the base Rabbit and the sporty GTI. Available options included:

• Climate control
• Cruise control
• Leather upholstery
• Heated seats
• Multimedia system with navigation

GTI and R32: Performance Versions

• Golf GTI (2004–2009) – Equipped with a 2.0 TFSI (200–230 HP), featuring a red-trimmed grille, sport suspension, and bucket seats.
• Golf R32 (2005–2008) – The top-tier model with a 3.2L VR6 (250 HP), 4Motion all-wheel drive, and a distinctive "bubbling" exhaust note.

 

Safety and Awards

The Golf V earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating thanks to six airbags, ESP, and a reinforced body. In 2004, it was named World Car of the Year.

 

Interesting Facts

• Return of the Rabbit Name – In the U.S., the Golf V was marketed as the Rabbit to evoke nostalgia for the first-gen model (1974–1984).
• DSG Issues – Early DSG transmissions had overheating and jerking problems, later fixed in updated models.
• Diesel Experiment – In 2006, Volkswagen introduced the Golf GT with a twin-charged 1.4 TSI engine, combining efficiency and performance.
• Golf Pickup – A limited-run pickup version, the Golf Trek, was produced in Mexico based on the Golf V.

 

Facelift and Successor

In 2008, the Golf V received minor updates, including revised bumpers, grille, and LED headlights. However, by 2009, it was replaced by the Golf VI, which used the same platform but featured a refined interior and improved noise insulation.

 

Conclusion

The Golf V (Rabbit) remains one of the most technologically advanced and reliable Golf generations. It offered modern styling, a wide range of engines, and high safety standards. Despite competition from Japanese and French hatchbacks, it maintained its status as a benchmark in its class.