Renault 21 (1986-1994) How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and General Description

The Renault 21 is a mid-size car produced by the French automaker Renault from 1986 to 1994. It replaced the Renault 18 and was designed as a modern, comfortable model with front-wheel drive and a wide range of body styles and engines. Production took place in factories in France, Spain, Turkey, Colombia, and other countries. In the U.S., the model was sold as the Renault Medallion, while in Latin America, it was marketed as the Renault Nevada (station wagon).

 

Variants and Body Styles

The Renault 21 was offered in three main body styles:

  • Sedan (L43) – A classic four-door version, the most popular in Europe.
  • Station Wagon (K43, later K44) – Called the Renault 21 Nevada, it featured an enlarged trunk and practicality.
  • Hatchback (B54) – A rare five-door version produced from 1986 to 1988.

In 1989, the model underwent a facelift, receiving updated headlights, a new grille, and a refreshed interior.

 

Engines and Transmissions

The Renault 21 was equipped with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.4 L (79 hp) – The base engine, but underpowered for the heavy body.
  • 1.7 L (90–110 hp) – The most balanced option.
  • 2.0 L (110–140 hp) – A powerful version, including the turbocharged 2.0 Turbo (175 hp).
  • 2.2 L (123 hp) – A rare engine for top trim levels.

Diesel:

  • 1.9 L (64 hp) – Fuel-efficient but low-powered.
  • 2.1 L (88 hp) – More torque-rich, with a turbocharged version (95 hp).

Transmissions included a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic (on versions with 2.0-liter engines).

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. From underneath, unscrew the four bolts securing the engine compartment shield.
  2. In the wheel arches, unscrew one bolt on each side.
  3. Open the hood.
  4. From the inside of the fenders, unscrew two bolts (or nuts) on each side that secure the bumper brackets to the fenders.
  5. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward to remove it.

Renault 21 front bumper mounting locations

Renault 21 Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Unscrew the six bolts securing the top side of the rear bumper (fastened from top to bottom).
  2. Unscrew the bolts in the wheel arches.
  3. Unscrew the two bolts securing the bumper brackets to the fenders.
  4. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward to remove it.

rear bumper mounting locations renault 21

Rear bumper mounting diagram Renault 21

Technical Features and Specifications

The Renault 21 featured advanced suspension for its time: MacPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, ensuring good handling and comfort. Braking systems included front disc brakes and rear drum brakes (some variants had all-disc setups).

The model was offered in several trim levels:

  • Base – Minimal equipment (usually with the 1.4-liter engine).
  • TL, GTS – Mid-range (power accessories, improved upholstery).
  • TS, TX, TSE – Top-tier versions with air conditioning, power steering, and powerful engines.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Renault 21 in Motorsports – In the late 1980s, the Renault 21 Turbo competed in rally races, including the Dakar Rally, where it demonstrated solid reliability.
  • American Version – In the U.S., the model was sold through AMC (American Motors Corporation) dealers as the Medallion but failed to gain traction due to poor marketing.
  • Electronic Innovations – Top trims offered an onboard computer, a rarity for cars in this class in the 1980s.
  • Longevity in Turkey – Production of the Renault 21 continued in Turkey until 2002 under the name Renault Toros (a station wagon based on the 21 Nevada).
  • Pop Culture Appearances – The Renault 21 appeared in several European films and TV series, including French detective shows from the 1990s.

 

Decline of the Model

By the mid-1990s, the Renault 21 had become outdated, and it was replaced by the more modern Renault Laguna. However, production continued in some countries (e.g., Colombia) until the late 1990s.

 

Conclusion

The Renault 21 is a classic example of a European mid-size car from the late 1980s. It combined practicality, a variety of configurations, and cutting-edge technology for its time. Although rarely seen on roads today, it remains an interesting piece of Renault’s history.