VW Passat B3 (1988–1993): How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model Codes

The Volkswagen Passat B3 was produced from 1988 to 1993 in Germany, with manufacturing continuing until 1997 in some countries (e.g., China and Mexico). Unlike previous generations, the Passat B3 did not have a letter-based body code (such as the B2 with codes 32B/32A). Instead, internal factory designations were used:

  • Typ 35i – for the European market.
  • 3A2 – for sedans and station wagons in some export versions.

 

Body Types and Modifications

The Passat B3 was offered in two main body styles:

  • 4-door sedan – a classic version with a spacious interior and a modern design for its time.
  • 5-door station wagon (Variant) – a more practical modification with an enlarged trunk.

Unlike the B2, the Passat B3 was initially designed without a hatchback body, which was unusual for the lineup.

 

Engines and Technical Specifications

The Passat B3 was equipped with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines:

Gasoline:

  • 1.6 L (72 HP, 127 km/h) – base engine.
  • 1.8 L (90–112 HP) – the most common option.
  • 2.0 L (115–136 HP) – a powerful version with a 16-valve head (GT/G60).
  • 2.8 L VR6 (174 HP) – the top modification with a unique narrow-angle 6-cylinder engine.

Diesel:

  • 1.6 L (54–60 HP) – economical but weak.
  • 1.9 L (64–75 HP) – turbocharged diesel (TD) with better dynamics.

Drivetrain – front-wheel drive; transmissions – 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP+EPDM<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

It is removed together with the metal reinforcement bar.

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the bolts (fastened top to bottom) and remove the trim.
  3. In the wheel arches, remove two plastic rivets on each side (there may be screws).
  4. At the front, unscrew two bolts, release the clips, and remove the grille.
  5. From underneath, unscrew two bolts (17 mm) on each side, which secure the reinforcement brackets to the frame rails (note: the bolts closest to the engine mount the subframe and do not need to be removed).
  6. With an assistant, pull the front bumper forward off the guide brackets in the fenders.
  7. Disconnect the fog light connectors (if equipped).

Front Bumper Mounting Locations VW Passat B3

Front Bumper Mounting Diagram VW Passat B3

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

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

It is removed together with the metal reinforcement bar.

  1. From underneath, unscrew four bolts (fastened bottom to top).
  2. Open the trunk lid.
  3. Lift the trunk floor.
  4. Under the trunk floor, unscrew four bolts securing the reinforcement brackets to the frame rails.
  5. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward off the guide rails in the fenders (note: pull evenly from both sides).

mounting locations of the rear bumper VW Passat B3

VW Passat B3 Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram

Design and Model Features

The Passat B3 was revolutionary for Volkswagen:

  • First use of an aerodynamic body (Cx = 0.29 – one of the best in its class).
  • Lack of a radiator grille (cooling through a slit under the bumper) – an unusual solution.
  • Spacious interior with an ergonomic dashboard (influenced by VW's "aero-design" concept).
  • First appearance of the VR6 – a compact 6-cylinder engine with a 15° bank angle.

 

Sport and Special Versions

  • Passat GT – a version with a 16-valve 2.0L engine (136 HP).
  • Passat G60 – an all-wheel-drive modification with a 1.8L engine (160 HP) and a G-Lader supercharger.
  • Passat Syncro – all-wheel drive based on a Visco clutch.

 

Interesting Facts

  • No radiator grille – due to its unconventional front end, the Passat B3 was nicknamed "bald" (the "Facelift" only appeared in the B4).
  • Golf III platform – the B3 used the new A3 platform, improving handling.
  • Chinese production – in China, the Passat B3 was produced until 1997 under the name Santana 2000 (with modifications).
  • Predecessor to the B4 – in 1993, the B3 received minor updates (new grille, bumpers), but this was officially the B4 model.
  • Rare VR6 – the 2.8L VR6 version could reach 220 km/h and was considered a "hot" sedan.

 

Legacy of the Passat B3

Despite its controversial design, the B3 became an important model for Volkswagen:

  • Successful sales in Europe (over 1 million units).
  • Technological innovations (VR6, aerodynamics).
  • A transitional link between "classic" Passats and modern models.

The Passat B3 is an underrated generation that laid the foundation for the model's future success.