Renault Espace IV 2002–2014: How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model Code

The fourth-generation Renault Espace was produced from 2002 to 2014. The factory model code is J81. In 2006, the car underwent a facelift that affected the exterior, interior, and technical components.

 

Model Overview

The Espace IV continued the legacy of the iconic French minivan, offering a spacious cabin, high comfort levels, and advanced technology for its time.

Design:

The car retained the recognizable Espace features—a monovolume body, high ground clearance, and panoramic glazing. After the 2006 facelift, the headlights, grille, and bumpers were updated, and new trim options became available.

Interior:

The cabin could accommodate 5 or 7 passengers, depending on the configuration. The second and third-row seats could be folded, turning the Espace into a cargo-passenger vehicle. High-quality materials were used in the interior, with top trims featuring leather and aluminum accents.

Technical Specifications:

Available engines:

Petrol:

  • 2.0L (140 HP)
  • 2.0T (165–170 HP)
  • 3.5L V6 (238–241 HP)

Diesel:

  • 1.9 dCi (120–130 HP)
  • 2.0 dCi (150–175 HP)
  • 3.0 dCi V6 (180–240 HP)

Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 5- and 6-speed automatic.

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >P/E/TD-10<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Lift and secure the hood.
  2. Under the hood, you will see four clips—pull them upward to release.
  3. Move to the underside. From beneath, unscrew four bolts securing the fender liners and two bolts holding the lower trim.
  4. Proceed to the wheel arches (it’s easier if you turn the wheels to the side).
  5. Remove the clips and detach the fender liners from the bumper.
  6. Behind the liners, unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened from bottom to top) securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
  7. Release the sides from the fender clips and, with an assistant, pull the bumper forward to remove it.
  8. (If equipped) Disconnect the electrical connectors for the fog lights and detach the headlight washer system hoses.

Renault Espace IV Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Renault Espace IV Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Start from the underside. Unscrew three hex-head bolts and four screws securing the fender liners.
  2. Open the tailgate.
  3. Inside the trunk opening, remove two covers and unscrew the bolts beneath them.
  4. Unscrew six screws and remove two trim panels.
  5. Under the panels, unscrew one bolt on each side securing the bumper.
  6. Move to the wheel arches and unscrew the bolts securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
  7. With an assistant, release the sides from the clips and pull the bumper backward to remove it.

Renault Espace IV rear bumper mounting locations

Rear bumper mounting diagram Renault Espace IV

Interesting Facts

  • First Keycard Minivan – The Espace IV was one of the first to feature a card key instead of a traditional ignition key.
  • Hybrid Concept – In 2007, Renault presented the Espace Hybrid concept with a diesel-electric powertrain, but it never entered production.
  • No Sports Version – Unlike the limited-edition Espace F1 in the 1990s, the fourth generation had no performance variants.
  • Long Production Run – The Espace IV remained in production for 12 years, a rarity for modern cars.

 

Advantages

  • Spacious and Flexible Interior – Easy seat transformation and a large trunk.
  • Good Performance (Diesel Models) – The 2.0 dCi and 3.0 dCi engines offered strong torque and reasonable fuel efficiency.
  • Comfortable Suspension – Smooth ride and excellent noise insulation.
  • Reliability – Many units are still on the road with proper maintenance.

 

Disadvantages

  • Unreliable Automatic Transmission – Especially in pre-facelift models.
  • Expensive Maintenance – Parts and repairs for complex components (e.g., V6 or electronics) can be costly.
  • Rust Issues – The body requires attention, particularly in cold climates.
  • Underpowered Petrol Engines – The non-turbo 2.0L lacked sufficient power for the heavy minivan.

 

Conclusion

The Renault Espace IV is one of Europe’s last classic minivans, combining practicality and comfort. Despite its age, many examples remain roadworthy thanks to reliable diesel engines and a well-thought-out design. However, potential buyers should check the transmission and body condition.

This model marked the end of the "big" Espace era, as the fifth generation (2015) shifted to a crossover platform, losing some of its distinctive features.