VW Jetta IV (1998-2005) How to Remove the Bumpers

Model Name and Production Years

The Volkswagen Jetta IV is the fourth generation of the popular compact sedan, produced from 1998 to 2005. In different countries, the model was also known as the Bora (especially in Europe and China) and City Jetta (in Canada for base versions). In the U.S. and several other markets, the name Jetta was retained.

 

Model Description

The Jetta IV (or Bora) was based on the Volkswagen Group A4 (PQ34) platform, which was also used for the Golf IV, Audi A3 (1st generation), and Skoda Octavia (1st generation). Compared to the previous Jetta III (Vento), the car featured a more modern design, improved aerodynamics (Cx = 0.31), and higher-quality interior materials.

Dimensions:

  • Length: 4380 mm
  • Width: 1735 mm
  • Height: 1440 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2510 mm

Suspension:

  • Front: Independent MacPherson strut
  • Rear: Semi-independent torsion beam (on most versions) or multi-link (on AWD R32 and some high-end models)

 

Modifications and Engines

The Jetta IV was offered with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.4L (75 HP) – Base engine for the European market.
  • 1.6L (100–105 HP) – The most common option.
  • 1.8L (125 HP, naturally aspirated) and 1.8T (150–180 HP, turbocharged) – Powerful versions, especially popular in the U.S.
  • 2.0L (115–116 HP) – Simple but reliable engine.
  • 2.3L VR5 (150–170 HP) – Rare 5-cylinder engine.
  • 2.8L VR6 (204 HP) and 3.2L VR6 (250 HP, in the R32) – Top-tier powertrains.

Diesel (TDI):

  • 1.9L (90–130 HP) – One of the most fuel-efficient (consumption ~5L/100 km).
  • 2.0L (136 HP, with unit injectors) – More powerful variant.

Transmissions:

  • 5- and 6-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic (on weaker engines)
  • 5-speed Tiptronic automatic (on high-performance versions)
  • 4Motion AWD (on VR6 and R32 models)

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP+EPDM-T10<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Release the upper part of the radiator grille from its clips and remove it upward (the grille is held by the hood latch mechanism; it’s not necessary to remove it completely, just lift it up).
  3. Under the radiator grille, unscrew the five screws securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  4. Remove the decorative side covers on the front bumper (held by clips).
  5. Under the covers, unscrew two screws.
  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew four screws on each side securing the fender liners (it’s easier with the wheels turned outward).
  7. With an assistant, pull the front bumper forward off the guide rails in the fenders (be careful not to damage electrical wires or hoses).
  8. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).
  9. (If equipped) Disconnect the headlight washer hoses.

VW Jetta IV Front Bumper Mounting Locations

VW Jetta IV Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Behind the side trunk trim panels, unscrew three nuts on each side, disconnect the connectors, and remove the taillights.
  2. In the taillight openings, unscrew one screw on each side securing the upper part of the rear bumper.
  3. Unscrew three screws (fastened upward from below) securing the lower part.
  4. In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners (easier with a ratchet).
  5. With an assistant, pull the rear bumper backward off the guide rails in the fenders (watch for wiring).
  6. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Jetta IV

VW Jetta IV Tail Light Mounting Diagram

VW Jetta IV Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram

Features and Technologies

Safety: The Jetta IV received 4 stars in Euro NCAP tests (1999). Standard equipment included airbags and ABS, with ESP and side airbags added later.

Comfort: The interior featured soft-touch plastics, aluminum trim, and optional climate control and leather seats.

Sport Versions:

  • Jetta GLI (1.8T or VR6) – The Golf GTI’s sedan counterpart.
  • Bora R (Europe) – Equipped with a 1.8T (180 HP) engine.
  • Bora V5 – Featured a 5-cylinder engine.
  • R32 (2004–2005) – AWD version with a 3.2L VR6 (250 HP) and 6-speed manual.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Bora Name: In Europe, the Jetta IV was sold as the Bora (named after the Adriatic wind). However, after the 9/11 attacks, Volkswagen temporarily avoided using the name in U.S. ads due to its phonetic similarity to "Al-Qaeda."
  • R32: The only Jetta IV with AWD and a VR6 engine, capable of 0–100 km/h in 6.6 seconds.
  • Convertible Prototype: Karmann developed a Bora Cabriolet prototype in 2001, but it never entered production.
  • Chinese Longevity: In China, the Bora was produced in a simplified form until 2020.
  • Racing Career: The Jetta IV competed in touring car races, including SCCA and Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (as a Safety Car).

 

Conclusion

The Jetta IV (Bora) was a significant model for Volkswagen, offering a blend of reliability, comfort, and sporty character. Today, versions with the 1.8T, VR6, and R32 engines are particularly sought after. Despite its age, many examples remain on the road thanks to robust construction and parts availability.