VW Jetta VI (2010–2018): How to Remove the Bumpers

Volkswagen Jetta VI: Production Years, Body Types, and Modifications

The sixth-generation Volkswagen Jetta (A6, Type 16) was produced from 2010 to 2018. Unlike the previous generation (Jetta V), which was closely tied to the Golf V, the Jetta VI was developed as a standalone model with a focus on the American market, where sedans have traditionally been more popular than hatchbacks.

Body Types

  • Sedan (4 doors) – The only available body style for the Jetta VI. Unlike the Golf, no hatchback version was offered.

 

Key Modifications

By engine and transmission:

  • Gasoline:
    • 1.2 TSI (105 HP) – Primarily for Europe.
    • 1.4 TSI (122–150 HP) – The most common option.
    • 2.0 TSI (200 HP) – GLI version (analogous to the Golf GTI).
    • 2.0 MPI (115 HP) – Budget-friendly naturally aspirated engine for the U.S. and some other markets.
  • Diesel (for Europe):
    • 1.6 TDI (105 HP) – Fuel-efficient option.
    • 2.0 TDI (140–150 HP) – More powerful diesel variant.
  • Transmissions:
    • 5- or 6-speed manual.
    • 6- or 7-speed DSG (automatic).
    • 6-speed automatic (for the U.S.).

By trim levels:

  • Trendline – Base version with minimal features.
  • Comfortline – Mid-level trim (climate control, upgraded interior).
  • Highline – Top trim (leather seats, heated seats, multimedia).
  • GLI – Sport version with 2.0 TSI (200 HP), Golf GTI-style grille, and sport suspension.
  • Hybrid – Hybrid model (1.4 TSI + electric motor, 170 HP).

 

Bumper plastic marking: >PP+EPDM-TD10<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the four screws (fastened top to bottom) securing the radiator grille. There is no need to remove the grille separately.
  3. Unscrew the screws at the bottom (eight screws, fastened bottom to top).
  4. Turn the wheels to the side.
  5. Unscrew the screws in the wheel arches (three on each side) securing the fender liners (front part).
  6. Unscrew one screw on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the front bumper corners to the fenders.
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  8. Release the clips at the front.
  9. With an assistant, remove the bumper forward (ensure wires and hoses are not damaged).
  10. Disconnect the fog light connectors (if equipped).
  11. (If equipped) Disconnect the headlight washer hoses (note: fluid may leak out).

VW Jetta VI Front Bumper Mounting Locations

VW Jetta VI 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. Open the access panels in the trunk side linings, unscrew the two plastic securing screws underneath, and remove the rear taillights.
  3. Unscrew the five screws (fastened bottom to top) securing the lower part of the rear bumper.
  4. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the fender liners (rear part).
  5. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew two screws on each side underneath (two fastened bottom to top, two fastened from the wheel side) securing the bumper sides.
  6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  7. Release the retainers under the taillights (lift gently with a flathead screwdriver).
  8. Release the clips in the trunk opening.
  9. With an assistant, remove the rear bumper backward (watch for wires).
  10. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Jetta VI

VW Jetta VI rear bumper mounting diagram

Model Overview

Design and Platform

The Jetta VI was built on the PQ35 platform (shared with the Golf V and VI) but with an extended wheelbase (+70 mm compared to the Golf VI). This allowed for more rear passenger space and a larger trunk (510 liters).

Externally, the car featured sharper lines, a bold grille, and a conservative design tailored to traditional markets. In Europe, it was seen as a "simplified Passat," while in the U.S. and China, it was one of the most popular sedans in its class.

 

Interior and Technology

  • Base models used more hard plastics compared to the Golf VI, but higher trims featured improved materials.
  • Multimedia:
    • Basic system with a small screen.
    • Optional RNS-310/510 with navigation.
  • Safety:
    • ESP, six airbags, hill-start assist.
    • From 2014: Adaptive cruise control and rearview camera (for top trims).

 

Driving Experience

  • Suspension:
    • Base models had a simplified torsion-beam rear axle (except GLI and Hybrid).
    • GLI featured a multi-link setup and sport tuning.
  • Engines:
    • 1.4 TSI with a manual transmission was the most balanced choice.
    • 2.0 MPI (U.S. market) was underpowered but reliable.
    • 1.6 and 2.0 TDI diesels were fuel-efficient but lost popularity after "Dieselgate."

 

Interesting Facts

  • American Focus – The Jetta VI was designed for the U.S., where it was sold with a 2.0 MPI and simplified suspension to reduce costs. In 2011, it became the best-selling European sedan in the U.S.
  • Hybrid Version – The Jetta Hybrid (2013–2016) accelerated 0–100 km/h in 8.6 sec and consumed ~4.5 L/100 km but was not widely popular.
  • Chinese Jetta – In China, the model remained in production until 2023 as the Jetta NF with minor changes.
  • Sporty GLI – The 2.0 TSI (200 HP) version accelerated 0–100 km/h in 6.7 sec and featured an XDS differential like the Golf GTI.
  • 2015 Facelift – The updated Jetta received new lighting, a revised grille, and higher-quality interior materials.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Jetta VI was a model with dual identities: in Europe, it was seen as a budget alternative to the Golf, while in the U.S. and China, it was a practical and affordable sedan. Despite simplified construction in base versions, it remained reliable and efficient, and the GLI offered driving dynamics close to the Golf GTI. In 2018, it was replaced by the Jetta VII (MQB platform), but many owners still appreciate the sixth generation for its simplicity and durability.