VW Polo III 1994–2002: How to Remove the Bumpers

Names and Production Years

The Volkswagen Polo III is the third generation of the popular compact car, produced in Europe from 1994 to 2002. In different regions, the model had additional designations:

  • Polo Classic (sedan, developed for emerging markets, including Latin America and Eastern Europe).
  • Polo Variant (station wagon, produced from 1997).
  • In Brazil, the model was sold as the Volkswagen Derby (sedan).

 

Model and Platform Codes

  • Typ 6N (1994–2001) – 3-door and 5-door hatchback.
  • Typ 6KV (1995–2002) – Polo Classic sedan (based on the SEAT Córdoba).
  • Platform: PQ24 (a modified A03 platform, shared with the SEAT Ibiza Mk2 and Škoda Fabia Mk1).

 

Body Types and Modifications

  • 3-door hatchback (6N1) – base version.
  • 5-door hatchback (6N2) – more practical option.
  • 4-door sedan (6KV, Polo Classic) – extended version for markets that preferred sedans.
  • 5-door station wagon (6KV, Polo Variant) – introduced in 1997.

 

Engines and Transmissions

The Polo III was offered with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.0 L (50 hp) – weak but economical.
  • 1.4 L (60–100 hp) – the most popular.
  • 1.6 L (100–120 hp) – in top versions (GTI, 16V).

Diesel:

  • 1.7 SDI (60 hp) – naturally aspirated, reliable but slow.
  • 1.9 SDI/TDI (64–110 hp) – turbocharged diesel with good torque.

Transmission:

  • 5-speed manual (main).
  • 4-speed automatic (rare, only on gasoline versions).

 

Bumper Plastic Markings: >PP+EPDM-T10< or >PP+EPDM-PE<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

Post-facelift versions (from 1999) differ in that the radiator grille does not need to be removed separately, and the screw locations are slightly changed.

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the three screws securing the radiator grille.
  3. Remove the turn signals, unscrew the two nuts underneath, and remove the radiator grille.
  4. Under the grille, unscrew the screws securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  5. On the front side, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws and take off three decorative covers.
  6. Under the covers, unscrew four screws (fastened from bottom to top).
  7. From underneath, unscrew five screws securing the lower part.
  8. Turn the wheels outward.
  9. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the fender liners.
  10. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew one screw on each side (fastened from bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  11. With an assistant, remove the bumper forward from the guide rails in the fenders (watch for wires).
  12. Disconnect the fog light connectors (if equipped).

Front Bumper Mounting Locations VW Polo III 1994–2002

VW Polo III 1994–2002 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. Inside the trunk opening, unscrew the screws (two, three, or four, depending on the year and body type).
  3. In the wheel arches, unscrew two (or three) screws on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners and the sides of the rear bumper.
  4. From underneath, unscrew five (or four) screws (fastened from bottom to top) securing the lower part.
  5. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward from the guide rails in the fenders (be careful not to tear any wires).
  6. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Polo III 1994–2002

VW Polo III 1994–2002 rear bumper mounting diagram

Features and Technologies

  • One of the first subcompacts with optional ABS.
  • ESP appeared in 1999 (on the GTI).
  • The 2001 facelift brought new bumpers, headlights, and an improved interior.

 

Sport Versions

  • Polo GTI (6N2, 1998–2001) – 1.6 L 16V (120 hp), 0–100 km/h in 9.1 sec.
  • Polo Harlekin (1995–1997) – limited edition with multicolored body panels.

 

Interesting Facts

  • SEAT Córdoba as a donor – the Polo Classic sedan was based on the Spanish SEAT Córdoba, reducing development costs.
  • Brazilian Derby – in South America, the Polo III sedan was sold as the Volkswagen Derby, even though the original Derby was from the 1980s.
  • Racing popularity – the Polo III was used in rallycross due to its lightweight and durable body.
  • Eco version – in 1997, VW introduced the Polo Ecomatic with an automated clutch and start-stop system.

 

The Legacy of the Polo III

The third-generation Polo strengthened Volkswagen's position in the subcompact segment. It was known for reliability, simple construction, and affordability. Many examples are still on the road today, especially diesel versions.

 

Conclusion: The Volkswagen Polo III is an important model in the brand's history, combining practicality, fuel efficiency, and sporty potential in top versions. Its legacy is evident in later Polo generations, which became more advanced but retained the spirit of an affordable and reliable car.