Opel Astra J (2009–2018): How to Remove the Bumpers

The Opel Astra J is a compact car produced from 2009 to 2018, becoming a true symbol of German engineering. This model replaced the Astra H and quickly gained popularity due to its modern design, advanced technologies, and high practicality. The Astra J is not just a car but a true companion for city trips and long journeys.

Alternative Names in Other Countries

The Opel Astra J is known by different names depending on the market:

  • Vauxhall Astra — in the United Kingdom.

  • Holden Astra — in Australia and New Zealand.

  • Chevrolet Astra — in some Latin American countries.

  • Buick Excelle XT/GT — in China (in hatchback and sedan body styles).

Bumper Material: Polypropylene, ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (20% mineral filler). Marking >PP/EPDM-T20<.

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. Unscrew the six screws securing the upper part of the front bumper.

  3. Unscrew two screws on the lower side (screwed from bottom to top) and loosen two bolts with nuts securing the lower panel.

  4. Turn the front wheels inward.

  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the wheel liners. In earlier versions, unscrew one screw on each side (screwed from bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.

  6. Release the sides from the clips in the fenders (grab the corner and pull sharply toward yourself).

  7. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper forward, paying attention to the wires.

  8. Disconnect the connectors of the wiring harness under the left headlight.

  9. The bumper is removed. Installation is performed in reverse order.

Front bumper mounting locations Opel Astra J (2009–2018)

Front bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra J (2009–2018)

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 styles, the mounting points are the same, with one small exception for the station wagon.

  1. Open the trunk lid.

  2. Open the covers in the side trim of the trunk.

  3. Unscrew the plastic nuts and remove the rear lights.

  4. (Station wagon) Unscrew one screw on each side under the rear lights.

  5. From the underside, remove two push pins inserted from bottom to top.

  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the wheel liners and the corners to the brackets in the fenders.

  7. Release the clips in the fenders by pulling sharply toward yourself.

  8. Release the clips under the rear lights by lifting the latches with a flathead screwdriver and pulling out the clips.

  9. Release the clips in the trunk opening. Lift the trunk seal, and you will see the clips that need to be pressed with a flathead screwdriver.

  10. With the help of an assistant, remove the bumper backward, paying attention to the wires.

  11. Disconnect the connectors of the electrical components.

  12. The bumper is removed. Installation is performed in reverse order.

Rear bumper mounting locations Opel Astra J hatchback (2009–2018)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra J hatchback (2009–2018)

Mounting location of the rear bumper Opel Astra J wagon (2009–2018)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Astra J wagon (2009–2018)

Mounting locations of the rear bumper Opel Astra J sedan (2009–2018)

Design and Features

The Astra J stands out with its dynamic and elegant appearance. The smooth lines of the body, the sleek profile, and the stylish lighting create a sense of motion even when stationary. Inside, the cabin is spacious and comfortable. High-quality materials, an ergonomic dashboard, and a well-thought-out layout make the ride pleasant for both the driver and passengers.

The car was available in several body styles: hatchback (5-door), sedan, station wagon (Sports Tourer), and even in a sporty GTC version (3-door hatchback with an aggressive design). The station wagon was particularly popular, combining compactness and versatility.

Technologies and Safety

The Opel Astra J was a true technological breakthrough for its time. Its features included:

  • FlexRide system, allowing the selection of driving modes (Standard, Sport, Comfort).

  • Adaptive AFL+ lighting, which adjusts to road conditions.

  • Intelligent parking assistance system.

  • Rearview camera and parking sensors.

  • Stability control system and multiple airbags.

Engines and Performance

The Astra J was offered with a wide range of engines: from economical 1.4-liter petrol engines to powerful 2.0-liter diesel engines. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine deserves special mention, combining performance and moderate fuel consumption. The car's suspension provided comfort on rough roads and confident handling at high speeds.

Interesting Facts

  • The sporty OPC version — Astra J OPC (or Vauxhall Astra VXR in the UK) was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 280 hp and accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds. It was a true "hot hatch" for speed enthusiasts.

  • The electric Ampera — based on the Astra J, the Opel Ampera was created, a plug-in hybrid car. It was one of the first mass-produced electric vehicles in Europe.

  • Popularity as a taxi — thanks to its reliability and efficiency, the Astra J was often used as a taxi, especially in the station wagon version.

  • Awards — the model received numerous awards for design and safety, including top scores in Euro NCAP crash tests.