Volvo XC70 I (2000-2007): How to Remove the Bumpers

Volvo XC70 I

If you love station wagons that can not only transport your family and cargo but also handle off-road conditions with confidence, then the first-generation Volvo XC70 (MK1) is exactly that kind of car. Introduced in the late 1990s, it became one of the first premium cross-country wagons, combining comfort, safety, and off-road capabilities.

 

Facelift and Model Evolution

The first-generation Volvo XC70 (chassis code P26) debuted in 2000 as a "rugged" version of the standard V70. Initially, the model was called the V70 XC (Cross Country), but after the 2004 facelift, it received the familiar name XC70.

Key changes after the update:

  • Design: A more expressive grille, new bumpers with protective trim, updated headlights, and taillights.
  • Mechanics: Improved suspension, increased ground clearance (up to 210 mm), an AWD system with electronic traction control.
  • Interior: Higher-quality materials, a new instrument panel, additional features such as climate control and heated seats.

The facelift made the XC70 even more versatile—it was no longer just a raised wagon but a full-fledged crossover with off-road ambitions.

 

Bumper Plastic (May Vary):

Polypropylene, ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer. Marked as >PP+EPDM<.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. (If present) Unscrew the nuts and remove the headlight washers.
  2. Open the hood.
  3. Under the hood, remove six push pins (inserted top to bottom—press the pin, then pull out the fastener) securing the upper half of the front bumper.
  4. From underneath, remove two push pins (there may also be two rivets).
  5. On the front face, remove two covers and unscrew the two screws beneath them.
  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew one screw on each side (TORX) securing the retaining plate (no need to fully remove—just loosen the plate).
  7. Release the sides from the fender clips (grab the corner and pull toward you).
  8. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward (watch for wires and hoses).
  9. Disconnect the fog light and sensor connectors.
  10. If equipped with a headlight washer system, disconnect the main hose.

front bumper mounting locations Volvo XC70 I (2000–2007)

Front Bumper Mounting Diagram Volvo XC70 I (2000–2007)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. In the trunk, remove the battery, take off the rear panel trim, and unscrew the antenna connector mounting nut.
  3. Through the holes in the rear panel, unscrew four nuts (requires a socket wrench).
  4. From underneath, remove six push pins (inserted bottom to top).
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew one screw on each side (TORX) securing the retaining plate (no need to fully remove—just loosen the plate to free the bumper edge).
  6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward you).
  7. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward (ensure wires are not torn).
  8. If equipped with parking assist, disconnect the connectors.

mounting locations of the rear bumper Volvo XC70 I (2000–2007)

Rear bumper mounting diagram Volvo XC70 I (2000–2007)

Body Type and Design Features

The XC70 MK1 is a 5-door station wagon with increased ground clearance and reinforced suspension. Unlike the standard V70, it features:

  • Underbody protection and fender flares for off-road driving.
  • All-wheel drive (initially a viscous coupling, later the Haldex electronic system).
  • Additional driving modes, including a low-range gear (on some versions).

Despite its off-road image, the XC70 remained a comfortable car for city and highway driving. Its spacious trunk (up to 1600 liters with folded seats) made it an excellent choice for travel.

 

Engines and Driving Performance

Under the hood, the first-gen XC70 offered reliable but not overly powerful engines:

Gasoline:

  • 2.4L (140–200 HP)—the base option, torquey but not very dynamic.
  • 2.5L Turbo (231 HP)—the most powerful, with excellent low-end torque.

Diesel (for Europe):

  • 2.5 TDI (140–163 HP)—fuel-efficient but noisy.

Acceleration to 100 km/h took 9 to 11 seconds depending on the engine. The XC70’s main strength was not speed but reliability and off-road capability. The AWD system allowed confident driving on mud, snow, and light off-road terrain, though it wasn’t meant for serious off-roading.

 

Interesting Facts About the Volvo XC70 MK1

  • A Pioneer in Its Class: The XC70 was one of the first "off-road wagons," foreshadowing the crossover trend. Before it, only the Subaru Outback and Audi A6 Allroad attempted a similar concept.
  • A Traveler’s Favorite: Thanks to its reliability and spaciousness, the XC70 was often chosen for long trips. In Scandinavia and North America, it remains popular among hunters and fishermen.
  • A Movie Star: This wagon appears in several films and TV shows, including The Accidental Millionaire (2006), where the protagonist drives a silver XC70.
  • Safety First: Like all Volvos, the XC70 earned top crash-test ratings. Airbags, stability control, and a sturdy body made it one of the safest cars of its time.
  • Rare Versions: In 2003, a limited-edition XC70 Ocean Race was released, featuring an exclusive blue paint job and upgraded trim.

 

Conclusion: Why the XC70 MK1 Still Holds Its Value

The first-gen XC70 is a car unafraid of traffic or bad roads. It’s reliable, practical, and has the unique charm of a "Nordic" wagon. Even today, 20+ years later, many examples remain on the road, and well-preserved models start at 300,000–400,000 rubles.

If you’re looking for a family car for travel and light off-roading, the first-gen Volvo XC70 is worth considering. It won’t let you down in snowy winters, can haul all your gear, and still looks stylish by modern standards.