Chevrolet Volt I (2011–2015) How to Remove the Bumpers.

The first-generation Chevrolet Volt (2011–2015) is a range-extended hybrid electric vehicle (EREV) developed by General Motors. It combines an electric motor and a gasoline generator, allowing it to operate both in pure electric mode and using gasoline to recharge the battery.

Main Features:

  • Engine Type:

    • Electric motor with 111 kW (149 hp).

    • Gasoline generator with 1.4 liters (63 kW, 84 hp) to recharge the battery.

  • Range:

    • In electric mode: approximately 60–80 km (depending on conditions).

    • With the gasoline generator: total range of up to 570 km.

  • Battery: Lithium-ion, 16 kWh (of which about 10.5 kWh is usable to extend battery life).

  • Transmission: Single-speed planetary gear.

  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive.

  • Charging Time: About 4 hours from a 220 V household outlet (using a Level 2 charger).

Other Names:

  • In Europe, the model was sold as the Opel Ampera (with slight design changes).

  • In the UK and some other countries, it was also offered as the Vauxhall Ampera.

  • Holden Volt in Australia and New Zealand.

  • Buick Velite 5 in China.

Bumper Material (may vary):

  • Thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, labeled <TEO>.

Tools Needed:

  • 7 mm socket with a ratchet.

  • Flathead screwdriver.

  • Trim removal tool for clips.

  • Torx-15 bit.

How to Remove the Front Bumper:

 

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Under the hood, remove ten clips (inserted from top to bottom) and take off the plastic cover above the radiator grille.

  3. Under the cover, unscrew four TORX T-15 screws and remove two clips securing the top side of the front bumper.

  4. On the underside, unscrew ten 7 mm bolts and remove four clips.

  5. Turn the steering wheel alternately to the left and right.

  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew four T-15 screws on each side, securing the fender liners.

  7. Release the clips in the fenders, grab a corner, and pull toward yourself.

  8. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward. Be careful with the wires.

  9. Disconnect the electrical connectors for the fog lights.

  10. The bumper is removed. Installation is done in reverse order.

Chevrolet Volt I (2011–2015) Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Chevrolet Volt I Front Bumper Mounting Diagram (2011–2015)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper:

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

  1. Open the trunk.

  2. On the edges of the trunk opening, unscrew two screws.

  3. Under the vehicle, unscrew two Torx screws and five 7 mm bolts.

  4. In the rear wheel arches, unscrew four screws on each side, securing the rear parts of the fender liners.

  5. Release the clips in the fenders. Grab a corner and pull toward yourself.

  6. Release the clips under the taillights. If they don’t give, remove the taillights.

  7. Release the clips in the trunk opening. Simply pull toward yourself.

  8. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward. Be careful not to damage the wires.

  9. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

  10. Installation is done in reverse order.

Chevrolet Volt I (2011–2015) rear bumper mounting locations

Chevrolet Volt I Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2011–2015)

Interesting Facts:

  • Pioneer in Its Class: The Chevrolet Volt was one of the first mass-produced range-extended hybrid vehicles, offering significant electric-only range.

  • Voltec Technology: The car uses patented Voltec technology, which efficiently combines the electric motor and gasoline generator.

  • Efficiency: The Volt was one of the most efficient vehicles of its time, with an equivalent fuel consumption of about 2.4 l/100 km (in mixed mode).

  • Awards: The model received numerous awards, including "Car of the Year" in North America (2011) and "Green Car of the Year" (2011).

  • Design: The Volt featured an aerodynamic design that reduced air resistance and increased range.

  • Eco-Friendliness: Volt owners could significantly reduce CO2 emissions, especially if they used the car primarily in electric mode.

  • Software: The Volt was equipped with advanced monitoring systems that allowed the driver to track battery charge level, energy consumption, and other parameters.

Advantages:

  • Ability to drive in pure electric mode for short trips.

  • No "range anxiety" thanks to the gasoline generator.

  • Low maintenance costs.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited rear passenger space due to the battery.

  • High initial cost compared to traditional vehicles.