Mazda 3 BP (2019–2025): How to Remove the Bumpers

The fourth generation Mazda 3 (codename BP) debuted in November 2018 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, replacing the popular third-generation model (BM). This version continued Mazda's traditions by combining elegant design, advanced technology, and high build quality. Let's examine what makes the "three" BP special, its modifications, and interesting facts about it.

Production Years and Model Code

Production of the Mazda 3 MK4 began in 2019 and continues to this day (as of 2025). The platform is called Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, and the factory code for this generation is BP (hence the unofficial nickname among fans - Mazda BP).

 

Facelift

So far, the fourth generation Mazda 3 hasn't undergone a full facelift, but in 2022 an updated version appeared with minor radiator grille adjustments, new body colors, and an improved multimedia system. Some countries also received a hybrid version.

 

Bumper Plastic Markings: >PP-(T21+S24)<

 

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open and secure the hood.

  2. Unscrew two bolts securing the air intake (the intake doesn't need to be removed, just lifted up).

  3. Remove screws and pop rivets, release clips, and remove the trim above the grille and headlights.

  4. Under the trim, unscrew two bolts and remove the clips they're inserted into.

  5. From underneath, unscrew bolts and remove pop rivets securing the fender liners and plastic trim to the lower part of the bumper (the trim doesn't need to be fully removed).

  6. Bend the trim downward and unscrew four more bolts underneath, removing two clips.

  7. To avoid wheel removal, turn the front wheels inward.

  8. In wheel arches, remove three pop rivets per side securing the front part of fender liners.

  9. Move liners aside and unscrew one bolt per side (screwed bottom-up) securing bumper corners to fenders.

  10. Release clips in fenders (pull the corner toward you).

  11. With an assistant, remove the front bumper by pulling forward (mind the wiring).

  12. Disconnect electronic component connectors.

Mazda 3 IV (BP) Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Mazda 3 IV (BP) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

Hatchback and sedan body types have slightly different mounting points.

  1. Open the trunk lid.

  2. In the trunk opening, remove two covers and unscrew two bolts beneath them.

  3. Remove trim pieces near taillights (held by clips) and unscrew two bolts per side underneath.

  4. Remove two clips, release fasteners, and remove the trunk panel trim.

  5. Release edges of side trunk trims (to access rear of taillights).

  6. Behind side trims, unscrew one nut per side, disconnect wiring, and remove taillights.

  7. Under taillights, unscrew one bolt per side and remove one clip securing the top of the rear bumper.

  8. From underneath, unscrew seven bolts and remove four pop rivets (inserted bottom-up) securing the lower part.

  9. In wheel arches, unscrew one bolt and remove one pop rivet per side securing fender liners.

  10. Move liners aside and unscrew one bolt per side securing bumper sides to brackets.

  11. Release sides from bracket clips (pull corners toward you).

  12. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling backward (mind the wiring).

  13. On the right side, disconnect the main electrical connector.

Mazda 3 IV (BP) rear bumper mounting locations

Mazda 3 IV (BP) rear bumper mounting diagram

Body Types and Modifications

Available in two body styles:

  • Hatchback (5-door) - sporty with short rear overhang

  • Sedan (4-door) - more classic with larger trunk

Engine options vary by market:

Gasoline:

  • Skyactiv-G 1.5 (114 HP) - base model, mainly for Asia

  • Skyactiv-G 2.0 (122-155 HP) - most popular in Europe

  • Skyactiv-G 2.5 (186-194 HP) - for US/Canada

  • Skyactiv-X 2.0 (180 HP) - innovative SPCCI compression-ignition engine

Diesel (some countries):

  • Skyactiv-D 1.8 (116 HP) - Europe

Hybrids:

  • Since 2022, e-Skyactiv X M Hybrid mild hybrid available in Japan and select markets

Transmissions: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Front-wheel or all-wheel drive (i-Activ AWD).

 

Model Description

Features Kodo: Soul of Motion design - larger grille, slimmer headlights, fluid body lines. Minimalist interior with premium materials: soft-touch plastics, leather, aluminum trim.

Technology includes:

  • 12.3" digital gauge cluster (top trims)

  • 10.25" multimedia display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

  • Adaptive cruise, blind spot monitoring, automatic braking and other i-Activsense systems

Suspension: front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam (controversial among fans as previous gen had multi-link).

 

Interesting Facts

  • Near-premium positioning - Mazda markets it as Audi A3/BMW 1 Series alternative

  • Turbo-less innovation - Skyactiv-X uses diesel-like compression ignition but runs on gasoline

  • First Mazda with AWD and automatic - i-Activ system adapts to road conditions

  • No MPS (Mazdaspeed) version - though 2023 brought 2.5L Turbo (250 HP) for North America

  • Exceptionally quiet - class-leading noise insulation

 

Conclusion

The Mazda 3 MK4 represents evolution in design, technology and comfort. It doesn't aim to be the most powerful or cheapest in class, but offers unique balance of style, handling and reliability. If you value Japanese quality and clever engineering, this model deserves your attention.