VW Scirocco III 2008-2017: How to Remove the Bumpers

Name and History

The Volkswagen Scirocco Mk3 is the third generation of the iconic sports coupe from the German automaker. The name "Scirocco" comes from the Mediterranean Sirocco wind, emphasizing the car's dynamic character. The model was produced from 2008 to 2017, serving as a modern interpretation of the classic first-generation Scirocco (Mk1 – 1974–1981, Mk2 – 1981–1992).

 

Model Code and Platform

The Scirocco Mk3 was based on the PQ35 platform, shared with the Golf V and the second-generation Audi A3. The internal model designation is Typ 137. Unlike its predecessors, the third generation was not offered in the U.S., remaining primarily a European model.

 

Body Type and Design

The car featured a 3-door hatchback with a sloping roofline, giving it a sporty appearance. The design was developed under the direction of Walter de Silva, who also created the Alfa Romeo 156 and Audi TT. The Scirocco Mk3's exterior was characterized by a wide radiator grille, aggressive body lines, and pronounced wheel arches.

 

Production Years and Updates

  • 2008–2014 – First version (facelifted in 2012).
  • 2014–2017 – Updated version with revised lighting and minor refinements.

Production ended in 2017 due to stricter environmental regulations and declining demand for compact coupes.

 

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 upper part of the front bumper (radiator grille).
  3. Lie under the car and unscrew the nine screws securing the lower part.
  4. Turn the wheels outward.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew four screws on each side and fold back the fender liners.
  6. Behind the fender liners, unscrew one screw on each side (TORX) securing the corners to the brackets in the fenders.
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (grab the corner and gently pull toward yourself with a quick motion).
  8. (Requires two people) Remove the front bumper by pulling it forward.
  9. Disconnect the electrical connectors for the fog lights and parking assist (if equipped).

Front Bumper Mounting Locations VW Scirocco III 2008-2017

VW Scirocco III 2008-2017 Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Lift the trunk lid.
  2. Open the covers in the trunk side panels.
  3. Under the covers, unscrew the retaining elements (plastic screws with springs), disconnect the connectors, and remove the rear lights.
  4. In the rear light openings, unscrew two screws on each side securing the upper part of the rear bumper.
  5. From underneath the car, unscrew four screws (fastened bottom to top, two screws hidden in recesses) securing the lower part.
  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the fender liners (rear section).
  7. Fold back the fender liners and unscrew one screw on each side (TORX T25, fastened top to bottom) securing the corners to the fenders.
  8. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  9. Release the clips under the rear lights (pry with a flat tool).
  10. Release the clips in the trunk opening (pull toward yourself).
  11. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward (ensure no wires are torn).
  12. Disconnect the license plate light and parking sensor connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Scirocco III 2008-2017

VW Scirocco III 2008-2017 rear bumper mounting diagram

Modifications and Engines

The Scirocco Mk3 was offered with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.4 TSI (122 HP, 160 HP, 180 HP) – turbocharged with manual/DSG transmissions.
  • 2.0 TSI (211–280 HP) – the most powerful variant (Scirocco R).

Diesel:

  • 2.0 TDI (140–184 HP) – fuel-efficient and torque-rich engines.

Transmissions:

  • 6-speed manual;
  • 6-speed DSG (dual-clutch);
  • 7-speed DSG (on high-performance versions).

 

Trim Levels:

  • Base – minimal equipment;
  • Sport – sport seats, reinforced suspension;
  • R-Line – exterior and interior enhancements;
  • Scirocco R – top version with 2.0 TSI (265–280 HP), AWD (4Motion), and aggressive body kit.

 

Performance and Dynamics

  • Scirocco R (265 HP) 0-100 km/h: 5.5–5.8 sec (depending on year).
  • Top speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited).
  • Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link, with optional adaptive dampers (DCC).

 

Interior and Technology

The Scirocco Mk3's interior was similar to the Golf V but with a more sporty seating position. Depending on the trim, it offered:

  • Leather seats with bolstering;
  • RNS 510 multimedia system with navigation;
  • Cruise control, climate control;
  • Parking sensors, rearview camera.

 

Interesting Facts

  • 2006 Concept Car – The Scirocco Mk3 debuted as the IROC concept (a nod to the International Race of Champions).
  • No U.S. Sales – Despite the Golf GTI's popularity, the Scirocco was not sold in the U.S. due to fears of cannibalizing Golf sales.
  • Scirocco GT24 – A racing version for the 24-hour Nürburgring race (2008), finishing 2nd in class.
  • Limited Editions – In 2014, the Scirocco R Limited (400 units) was released with 280 HP.
  • Successor – No direct successor exists, but the VW Arteon partially fills its niche.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Scirocco Mk3 was one of the last affordable sports coupes in its class. It combined performance, style, and practicality but ultimately gave way to crossovers. Today, it is valued for its distinctive design and handling, remaining popular on the used car market.