VW T6 (T6.1) 2015-2023 How to Remove the Bumpers

The Volkswagen Transporter T6 is the sixth generation of the legendary German van, produced from 2015 to 2023. The model continued the line of commercial and passenger vehicles known for their reliability and versatility. In this article, we will look at the names, model codes, facelifts, modifications, and interesting facts about the T6.

Names and Model Codes

The official name is Volkswagen Transporter T6, but depending on the market and body type, it is also known as:

• Volkswagen Caravelle (passenger minibus)
• Volkswagen Multivan (premium version with an upgraded interior)
• Volkswagen California (camper)
• Volkswagen Craftline (special edition with unique design)

Factory model codes:

• T6 (SGF) – base platform (2015–2023)
• T6.1 (SGN) – facelifted version (2019–2023)

 

Production Years and Facelift

2015–2019: The first generation T6, introduced in April 2015. It featured an updated design but retained the platform of its predecessor, the T5 (PQ46).

2019–2023: The facelifted T6.1 version, which received a new front end, a modern infotainment system (MIB3), an expanded list of safety systems, and partial electrification (plug-in hybrid eHybrid).

 

Body Types and Modifications

The T6 was offered in several body styles:

• Panel Van (Kastenwagen) – Commercial version with solid rear side panels.
• Kombi – Passenger version with windows and seats.
• Minibus (Caravelle/Multivan) – Comfort-oriented versions designed to carry 6–9 people.
• Camper (California) – A self-contained mobile home with a pop-up roof, kitchen, and folding furniture.
• Utility-Passenger Versions (Double Cab, Pick-up) – Rare modifications with an open cargo bed.

 

Engines and Transmissions

The T6 was equipped with a wide range of engines:

Petrol:

• 2.0 TSI (204 HP, from 2015)
• 1.4 TSI eHybrid (218 HP, hybrid, only T6.1)

Diesel (TDI):

• 2.0 TDI (90–199 HP)
• 2.0 BiTDI (199–237 HP, with twin-turbocharging)

Transmissions:

• 5- and 6-speed manual
• 7-speed DSG (automatic)
• 4Motion (all-wheel drive, optional)

 

Plastic bumper markings: >PP/EPDM-TD10<

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How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Open the hood.
2. (T6 2015-2019) Under the hood, remove four push pins (inserted top to bottom) securing the upper part of the radiator grille.
3. (T6.1 2019-2024) Release the upper part of the radiator grille from the clips (indicated by blue arrows; simply pull toward yourself) securing it to the support element.
4. From underneath, unscrew two screws on each side (inserted bottom to top).
5. Turn the wheels inward.
6. (Each side) Unscrew two screws in the wheel arch and remove one push pin securing the fender liner (front part).
7. Move the fender liners aside and remove one push pin on each side (inserted bottom to top) securing the corners to the guide rails in the fenders.
8. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
9. Now the hardest part: release the clips in the upper part of the bumper under the radiator grille (marked with arrows). Pull the entire bumper upward (preferably with an assistant) and yank it toward yourself.
10. Remove the front bumper forward (ensure wires are not torn).
11. Disconnect the electrical component connectors.

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How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the tailgate.
2. Unscrew two screws on each side and remove the rear lights (held by clips in the fenders; pull the left light to the left and the right light to the right).
3. Under the rear lights, remove two push pins on each side and take off the pillar covers (lift the cover upward and pull toward yourself).
4. Remove three push pins securing the lower part (inserted bottom to top).
5. In the wheel arches, unscrew two screws on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners.
6. Release the clips in the fenders (marked with blue arrows; pull the corners toward yourself).
7. Release the clips under the pillar covers.
8. Under the tailgate seal, release five clips (marked with blue arrows; use a flathead screwdriver to release the retainers).
9. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward (watch for wires).
10. Disconnect the parking sensor connectors (if equipped).

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Model Overview

The T6 retained its body-on-frame construction with front-wheel drive but gained modern technologies:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Front Assist emergency braking system
• Digital instrument cluster (in T6.1)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support

The design became more angular, with a new radiator grille and LED lighting. The interior featured improved materials, and the Multivan version included a sliding table and swivel seats.

 

Interesting Facts

• Last of Its Kind – The T6 was the last Transporter on the PQ46 platform, which was also used in the T5 (2003–2015). Its successor, the T7, switched to the modular MQB platform.
• Hybrid Version – The T6.1 eHybrid (2020) was the first hybrid in Transporter history, with an electric range of about 50 km.
• Special Editions – In 2018, the Edition 40 marked Caravelle’s 40th anniversary, and in 2021, the California Beach Tour was released with an expanded feature set.
• Police and Military Use – The T6 was used in Germany as a police van and ambulance.
• No Full EV – Despite the hybrid version, a full electric model based on the T6 never appeared.

 

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Transporter T6 is a reliable and practical vehicle that continued the series’ traditions while adding modern technology. The T6.1 facelift made it more competitive, but with the arrival of the T7 in 2021, the era of "classic" Transporters ended. Nevertheless, the T6 remains popular on the used market, especially the California and Multivan versions.