VW Jetta VII (2018+): How to Remove the Bumpers

Volkswagen Jetta VII: Production Years, Body Types, and Modifications

The seventh generation of the Volkswagen Jetta (A7) has been in production since 2018 and continues to the present (2025) for the global market, though in some regions, including China, it is still manufactured under different designations. Unlike the previous generation (Jetta VI/MK6), which was based on the PQ35 platform, the Jetta VII transitioned to the modular MQB platform, improving dynamics, safety, and technological features.

 

Body Types

Sedan – The only available body style for the Jetta VII. Volkswagen discontinued the wagon (previously sold in Europe as the Jetta Variant) and hatchback, focusing solely on the classic 4-door configuration.

 

Key Modifications

Engines (varies by market):

  • Gasoline:
    • 1.4 TSI (150 HP) – The primary turbocharged engine for the US and Europe.
    • 1.5 TSI EVO (150 HP) – Features ACT (cylinder deactivation) technology.
    • 2.0 TSI (228 HP) – The GLI version (equivalent to the Golf GTI).
  • Diesel (for Europe):
    • 1.6 TDI (115 HP) and 2.0 TDI (150 HP).
  • Hybrid – A Jetta PHEV was offered in China with an electric-only range of about 50 km.

Transmissions:

  • 6-speed manual, 7-speed DSG (for gasoline versions), 8-speed automatic (for diesel engines in the US).

Trim Levels:

  • S, SE, SEL (US) – Base variants with varying equipment levels.
  • R-Line – Sporty design package.
  • GLI – Top-tier version with a 2.0 TSI and sport-tuned suspension (competes with the Honda Civic Si).

 

Plastic Bumper Markings: >PP+E/P-TD10<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the four bolts (fastened top to bottom) securing the radiator grille.
  3. From underneath, remove the twelve bolts securing the lower part of the front bumper.
  4. Depending on the side being disassembled, unscrew the corresponding bolts.
  5. In the wheel arches, remove three bolts on each side securing the fender liners.
  6. Behind the fender liners, unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (marked by blue arrows; pull the corners toward yourself).
  8. The most challenging part: Release the clips behind the radiator grille (marked by blue arrows) securing the upper part of the bumper. Accessing these clips is difficult due to the radiator grille. The grille is attached to the bumper with clips and must be pulled forward, but releasing them without removing the bumper is nearly impossible.
  9. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper forward (ensure no wires are torn—note that the wires are very short).
  10. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

VW Jetta VII Front Bumper Mounting Locations

VW Jetta VII Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. Near the taillights, remove the plastic covers, unscrew the four bolts beneath them, and detach the taillights (secured by clips in the fenders).
  3. From underneath, remove four expansion rivets and unscrew two (or four) bolts (fastened bottom to top).
  4. In the wheel arches, remove two bolts on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners.
  5. Behind the fender liners, unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
  6. Release the clips in the fenders (marked by blue arrows; pull the corners toward yourself).
  7. Release the clips under the taillights (marked by blue arrows).
  8. Release the clips in the trunk opening (marked by blue arrows). These clips are very tight; if the bumper is pulled backward, they can be lifted using a bent metal tool.
  9. With an assistant, carefully pull the rear bumper backward (watch for wires).
  10. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Jetta VII

VW Jetta VII Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram

Model Overview

The Jetta VII features a more aggressive design inspired by the Arteon, with a narrow radiator grille and sharp lines. Dimensions have increased: length – 4.70 m, wheelbase – 2.68 m, improving rear passenger space.

Interior Upgrades:

  • Digital instrument cluster (up to 10.25 inches).
  • Touchscreen infotainment system (6.5–8 inches) with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support.
  • Optional features: leather seats, panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel and seats.

Safety Features:

  • Adaptive cruise control.
  • Emergency braking system.
  • Blind-spot monitoring.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Separate Brand in China – Since 2019, Jetta has been a standalone brand in China with its own models (VS5, VS7), though the sedan remains in production.
  • GLI vs. GTI – The GLI uses the same 2.0 TSI as the Golf GTI but has a softer suspension setup for comfort.
  • Electrification – In 2020, Volkswagen announced a shift toward EVs, making the Jetta VII potentially the last generation with an internal combustion engine.
  • Racing Heritage – In Mexico, the Jetta competed in TCR races.

 

Conclusion

The Jetta VII is a well-balanced sedan built on a European platform but tailored for markets like the US, China, and Mexico. The discontinuation of the wagon and diesel engines in some regions reflects Volkswagen’s global strategy. The model maintains its reputation for reliability, though it has lost some of its audience to crossovers.