Opel Omega A (1986-1994): How to Remove the Bumpers

The Opel Omega A was the first generation of Opel's legendary full-size sedan and station wagon, produced from 1986 to 1994. This model replaced the outdated Opel Rekord and became the brand's flagship, offering comfort, spaciousness, and cutting-edge technology for its time.

Alternative Names in Other Countries

Opel used different names for this model in various markets:

  • Vauxhall Carlton - In the UK (under the Vauxhall brand)

  • Chevrolet Omega - In Brazil (this name was later used for the Omega B too)

  • Holden Commodore - In Australia and New Zealand (though significantly modified)

 

Body Styles

The Omega A was available in three main versions:

  1. 4-door sedan - A classic executive car with generous interior space

  2. 5-door station wagon (Caravan) - A practical family version

  3. 2-door coupe - A rare variant produced only in Brazil as the Chevrolet Omega Suprema

 

Tools Needed for Removal

  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers

  • Socket set

  • Ratchet or extension bar

  • Trim removal tool for clips

Front Bumper Removal

  1. Open and secure the hood

  2. Remove clips from the underside

  3. In the wheel arches, release clips securing the fender liners (often replaced with screws over time)

  4. From the engine bay, unscrew two bolts attaching the bumper reinforcements to the frame rails

  5. Alternatively, you can remove the nuts attaching reinforcements to the bumper (more difficult)

  6. Release sides from fender clips and remove the bumper forward with assistance

  7. The bumper is now off - reinstallation is the reverse process

Opel Omega A (1986-1994) front bumper mounting locations

Front bumper mounting diagram Opel Omega A (1986-1994)

Rear Bumper Removal

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

  1. Remove license plate light and disconnect its connector

  2. In rear wheel wells, remove two screws per side

  3. Open the trunk/tailgate

  4. Lift trunk floor covering and remove rear panel trim

  5. Under trim, remove nuts securing bumper reinforcements to rear panel

  6. Release sides from fender clips

  7. Remove bumper backward with assistance

mounting points of the rear bumper Opel Omega A (1986-1994)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Opel Omega A (1986-1994)

Technical Specifications and Engines

The Omega A offered:

  • Gasoline engines: From a modest 1.8L (90 hp) to a powerful 3.0L (177 hp in the top 3000 24V 6-cylinder)

  • Diesel: Efficient 2.3L turbodiesels (100-120 hp)

  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive only (like contemporary BMWs)

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic

 

Interesting Facts

  • Police favorite: In Germany, the Omega A (especially the 3000 24V) became popular with police for its 230 km/h top speed

  • Rally version: The Opel Omega Evolution 500 rally car had a 2.4L turbo (380 hp)

  • TV star: The Vauxhall Carlton appeared in UK's "Only Fools and Horses"

  • Brazilian special: Some models got a 4.1L Chevrolet V6!

 

Legacy

The Omega A is remembered as a reliable, solid, and dynamic car. It was replaced by the Omega B in 1993, but the original set the standard.

 

Final note: Whether you see an Opel Omega A, Vauxhall Carlton or Chevrolet Omega - it's the same German engineering with an international identity!