Opel Astra H (2004–2014): How to Remove the Bumpers.

The Opel Astra H is a compact car produced by the German automaker Opel from 2004 to 2014. It represents the third generation of the Astra lineup and replaced the Astra G model. This car gained popularity due to its reliability, practicality, and modern design that matched the spirit of the times.

Design and Features

The Astra H stood out with its understated yet stylish design. The smooth body lines, expressive headlights, and well-proportioned grille made it recognizable on the roads. The interior was spacious for its class, with high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout of controls.

The model was available in various body styles: hatchback (3 and 5 doors), sedan, station wagon, and even a convertible (Opel Astra TwinTop). This allowed buyers to choose a car suited to different needs, from city driving to family trips.

Technical Specifications

The Astra H was equipped with a wide range of engines: from economical petrol and diesel units to powerful turbocharged versions. For example, the top-of-the-line OPC (Opel Performance Center) version with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produced 240 hp, making it a true "hot hatch."

The car's suspension provided a comfortable ride in the city and confident handling on the highway. Additionally, the Astra H offered numerous options, such as climate control, heated seats, cruise control, and even an adaptive lighting system (AFL).

Alternative Names in Other Countries

The Opel Astra H was sold under different names depending on the market:

  • Vauxhall Astra H — in the UK.

  • Holden Astra H — in Australia and New Zealand.

  • Chevrolet Astra — in some Latin American countries.

  • Saturn Astra — in the USA and Canada (from 2008).

Bumper Material: Polypropylene, ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (18% mineral filler). Marking >PP+EPDM-T18<.

Tools for Removal:

  • TORX bits with a ratchet.

  • Socket wrenches or spanners.

  • Trim removal tool for clips.

  • Flathead screwdriver.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

 

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Under the hood, remove four clips (press the center pin and then pull out the clip).

  3. Release and remove the radiator grille (use a flathead screwdriver between the bumper and grille, press the tabs, and pull the grille upward).

  4. Under the radiator grille, remove two clips.

  5. From the underside, remove three clips inserted from bottom to top.

  6. It will be easier if you turn the wheels to the side.

  7. In the wheel arches, unscrew two screws on each side that secure the wheel liners.

  8. Release the sides from the tabs in the fenders (pull toward yourself).

  9. Use a flathead screwdriver to release the tabs in front of the radiator.

  10. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper forward, being careful with the wires and hoses.

  11. Disconnect the wires from the fog lights (if equipped).

  12. If a headlight washer system is installed, disconnect the hoses (fluid will leak out).

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

Front bumper mounting locations Opel Astra H (2004–2014)

Front bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra H (2004–2014)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

In hatchback, sedan, and station wagon body types, the mounting points differ.

Sedan:

  1. Open the trunk.

  2. Behind the side trunk linings, unscrew two bolts on each side and remove the taillights.

  3. Under the taillights, unscrew three screws on each side (screwed from top to bottom).

  4. From the underside, unscrew five screws (screwed from bottom to top).

  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew the screws that secure the wheel liners and one screw on each side (screwed from bottom to top) that secure the corners to the fenders.

  6. Release the tabs in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself) and under the taillights.

  7. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper backward, remembering to disconnect the wires.

Rear bumper mounting locations Opel Astra H Sedan (2004–2014)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra H Sedan (2004–2014)

Station Wagon:

  1. Open the trunk.

  2. In the side trunk linings, open the access panels.

  3. Under the panels, unscrew three plastic nuts and remove the taillights.

  4. Under the taillights, unscrew one screw on each side.

  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew the screws that secure the wheel liners and one screw on each side (screwed from bottom to top) that secure the corners to the fenders.

  6. From the underside, unscrew four screws (screwed from bottom to top).

  7. Release the tabs in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself) and under the taillights.

  8. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper backward, remembering to disconnect the wires.

Mounting locations of the rear bumper Opel Astra H Estate (2004–2014)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra H Estate (2004–2014)

Hatchback:

  1. Open the trunk.

  2. In the hatchback body type, there are no screws under the taillights, so they do not need to be removed.

  3. Remove the license plate along with its frame and unscrew two screws.

  4. Unscrew three screws on each side in the wheel arches that secure the wheel liners.

  5. Unscrew two screws from the underside.

  6. Release the tabs in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself) and under the taillights.

  7. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper backward, remembering to disconnect the wires.

Rear bumper mounting locations Opel Astra H Hatchback (2004–2014)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra H Hatchback (2004–2014)

Interesting Facts

GM Delta Platform
The Astra H was built on the GM Delta platform, which was also used by models such as the Chevrolet Cobalt and Daewoo Lacetti. This made it more versatile and accessible in production.

Top Safety Ratings
The model received 5 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests thanks to numerous safety systems, including airbags, ABS, ESP, and active head restraints.

Sporty OPC Version
The Astra OPC (or VXR in the UK) was a true "hot hatch." It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and featured a sporty design with an aggressive bumper and 18-inch wheels.

Convertible with a Hardtop
The Astra TwinTop was one of the few convertibles in its class with a folding hardtop. This solution provided better noise insulation and safety compared to traditional soft tops.

Model Evolution
In 2010, the Astra H underwent a facelift, which included a new grille, updated headlights, and improved interior materials. This allowed it to remain competitive until the arrival of the next generation, the Astra J.

Conclusion

The Opel Astra H is a car that successfully combined practicality, comfort, and dynamics. It became one of the most popular models in its class in Europe and is still seen on the roads today, thanks to its reliability and affordability on the used car market. If you're looking for an affordable yet high-quality car with European character, the Astra H is an excellent choice!