VW Caddy III (2004–2020) How to Remove the Bumper

Modifications and Generations

The Volkswagen Caddy III is the third generation of the popular compact van, produced from 2004 to 2020. This model earned a reputation as a reliable and versatile vehicle, used for both commercial and personal purposes. Unlike previous generations, the Caddy III was developed on the PQ35 platform (shared with the Golf V), improving its driving performance and comfort.

 

Production Years and Generations

Although the Caddy III officially debuted in 2004, its production continued until 2020, with several facelifts:

  • 2004–2010 — First version (Typ 2K).
  • 2010–2015 — First facelift (updated design, new instrument panel).
  • 2015–2020 — Second facelift (revised radiator grille, LED lighting, updated engine lineup).

In 2020, the Caddy III was replaced by the fourth generation, built on the modular MQB platform.

 

Main Modifications

The Caddy III was offered in several body styles and configurations:

  • Caddy Van — Commercial version with solid rear side panels and two seats. Payload capacity up to 700 kg, cargo volume up to 3.2 m³.
  • Caddy Life — Passenger minivan with a five-seat cabin and increased window area.
  • Caddy Maxi — Extended version (47 cm longer than standard) with more space for passengers or cargo.
  • Caddy Alltrack (from 2011) — Off-road version with plastic body cladding and 4Motion all-wheel drive.
  • Caddy Tramper — Special camper modification with a pop-up roof and travel-ready interior.

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP+EPDM-TD15<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the two bolts securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  3. From underneath, unscrew six bolts (fastened upward) securing the lower part.
  4. Turn the wheels outward.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts on each side securing the fender liners (front part).
  6. Unscrew one bolt on each side (may be push pins) securing the corners to the fenders.
  7. Inside the fenders, release the metal clips (marked with a blue arrow on the diagram—pry and pull outward about 2 cm).
  8. Release two clips near the hood latch (marked with blue arrows on the diagram).
  9. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward (watch for wires and hoses).
  10. Disconnect electrical connectors (if present).
  11. Disconnect the headlight washer hoses (if equipped).

VW Caddy III Front Bumper Mounting Locations

VW Caddy III Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts on each side securing the rear bumper sides.
  2. From underneath, unscrew eight nuts (paired on different sides) securing the reinforcement brackets to the body.
  3. With an assistant, remove the bumper along with the metal reinforcement backward.
  4. Disconnect electrical connectors (if present).
  5. Now, unscrew four bolts and detach the reinforcement.

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Caddy III

VW Caddy III rear bumper mounting diagram

Technical Features

The Caddy III was equipped with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines:

  • Petrol: 1.2 TSI (84–105 HP), 1.4 (75–80 HP), 1.6 (102 HP), 2.0 (115–150 HP).
  • Diesel: 1.6 TDI (75–120 HP), 2.0 TDI (110–150 HP).

Transmissions included 5- or 6-speed manual, 6- or 7-speed DSG (after 2010). Drivetrain—front-wheel drive, but Alltrack and some commercial versions offered all-wheel drive (4Motion).

The suspension featured independent MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam at the rear, balancing load capacity and comfort.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Shared roots with Golf V — The Caddy III shared its platform and many components with the Golf V, enhancing reliability compared to predecessors.
  • Electric version — In 2014, Volkswagen introduced the e-Caddy with an electric motor (115 HP) and a 120 km range, but it saw limited production.
  • Popular among campers — Due to its compact size and spaciousness, the Caddy III was often converted into mini-campers, especially in Europe.
  • Sport version — In 2006, ABT Sportsline created a tuned Caddy ABT with a 2.0 TDI (170 HP) and sport suspension.
  • Long life cycle — Despite the launch of the Caddy IV in 2020, the third generation continued to sell in some markets for several more months.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Caddy III became one of the most successful generations of this model, thanks to its versatility, reliability, and wide range of configurations. Over 16 years of production, it gained popularity among commercial users and families alike, valued for its practicality. Even after being discontinued, it remains in demand on the used car market.