VW Tiguan II 2016-2024: How to Remove the Bumpers

The Volkswagen Tiguan second generation is one of the most popular compact crossovers on the global market. The model debuted in 2016 and has since undergone several updates. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the names, body codes, modifications, and features of the Tiguan II.

Names and Generations
The second-generation Tiguan is officially called the Volkswagen Tiguan II (Typ 5NA/BW). Some sources refer to it as the Tiguan Mk2 or Tiguan B2.

 

Production Years:

• 2016–2020 – First version (pre-facelift).
• 2020–2024 – Facelifted version (updated design and technology).
• From 2024 – The next generation (Tiguan III) is expected.

 

Model Code and Body Type

• Platform: MQB (Modularer Querbaukasten).
• Body Codes:
  • 5NA – Standard Tiguan (short wheelbase).
  • BW (Tiguan Allspace) – Extended version (7 seats).

 

2020 Facelift
In 2020, the Tiguan II received significant changes:

• Exterior: New lighting, radiator grille in the style of the Golf 8, LED headlights.
• Interior: Digital instrument panel (Digital Cockpit), updated multimedia system.
• Technology: Travel Assist system (semi-autonomous driving), new engines (including the eHybrid plug-in hybrid).

 

Modifications and Engines

Gasoline Versions

• 1.5 TSI (150 HP) – The most popular engine (post-facelift).
• 2.0 TSI (180–220 HP) – For R-Line and Tiguan R versions (290 HP).

Diesel Versions

• 2.0 TDI (150–200 HP) – Fuel-efficient and torque-rich engines (4Motion available).

Hybrid and PHEV

• eHybrid (245 HP) – Plug-in hybrid (~50 km electric range).

Performance Versions

• Tiguan R (320 HP, 4Motion, 0–100 km/h in 4.9 s) – Top-tier model with all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension.

 

Bumper Plastic Markings:

PP+EPDM-TD10< or >PP+E/P-TD10<

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How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Lift the hood.
2. Under the hood, unscrew the four screws securing the radiator grille.
   • For facelifted models (2020+), removing the grille is optional—the clips behind it are easier to release.
3. Release the lower part from the clips (pull toward yourself, gently rocking left and right) and remove the radiator grille (note: there is an electrical connector behind the emblem).
4. Behind the grille, unscrew the three screws securing the guide rail (or release the upper clips from the rail).
5. From underneath, unscrew twelve screws (fastened from bottom to top).
6. Turn the wheels to the side.
7. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the fender liners (front section).
8. Release the wheel arch extensions (no need to fully remove them) from the clips (pull from bottom to top. To avoid breaking the clips, slide your hand between the liner and bumper and squeeze them with your fingers).
9. On both sides, unscrew the screw securing the corner to the guide rail in the fender.
10. On both sides, release the clips in the fenders (pull the corner toward yourself).
11. (2020+) Release the clips behind the radiator grille (pull toward yourself—the clips should release easily).
12. With an assistant, remove the bumper forward (ensure wires and hoses are not damaged).
13. Disconnect electrical connectors.
14. (If equipped) Disconnect the headlight washer hose (note: fluid may leak from the reservoir).

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How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid.
2. Open the access panels in the trunk side trim.
3. Behind the panels, unscrew the fasteners, disconnect electrical connectors (pull out the red lock first, then separate the connector), and remove the rear lights.
4. From underneath, unscrew two screws securing the wheel arch extensions and remove four push rivets holding the lower part of the rear bumper.
5. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the fender liners.
6. Release the rear part of the wheel arch extensions from the clips (pull from bottom to top. Slide your hand between the liner and bumper, squeeze the clips, and pull the extension toward yourself).
7. Behind the wheel arch extensions, remove one push rivet on each side securing the corners to the fenders.
8. Release the clips in the fenders (marked with blue arrows—pull the sides toward yourself).
9. Release the clips under the rear lights (lift gently with a flathead screwdriver).
10. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward (watch for wires).
11. Disconnect electrical connectors.

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Model Overview
The Tiguan II is a practical crossover with a high level of comfort and technology.

 

Design

• Pre-facelift (2016–2020) – Clean lines, narrow headlights.
• Post-facelift (2020–2024) – More aggressive styling, bold bumper.

 

Interior

• Premium-quality materials.
• Digital dashboard (up to 12 inches), head-up display.
• Climate control, heated seats, massage function (in top trims).

 

Safety
Systems:

• Front Assist (automatic emergency braking).
• Lane Assist (lane-keeping).
• Travel Assist (adaptive cruise with semi-autonomous driving).

 

Interesting Facts

• The Tiguan is VW's best-selling crossover (over 6 million units sold to date).
• In Russia, the Tiguan II was assembled in Kaluga (until 2022).
• The Tiguan Allspace (7-seater) is popular in the US and China.
• The Tiguan R is the most powerful production Tiguan ever.
• A fully electric version (ID.Tiguan) is expected after 2024.

 

Conclusion
The Volkswagen Tiguan II is a successful blend of practicality, technology, and performance. The model remains a leader in its class, and the 2020 facelift made it even more advanced. With the addition of the Tiguan R and hybrid versions, the lineup has become even more diverse.

If you're looking for a reliable family crossover with good dynamics, the Tiguan II is an excellent choice.