Stumped by a Polo

[BlueHave]

I'm usually quite good when it comes to body panels but I have currently been stumped by the rear bumper trim on a humble Polo, the black strip that wraps itself around the bumper above the numberplate.

I've spent a fair amount of time trying to pull it off but it just won't budge. I know it can come off but how.

So I bought a Haynes manual and it said 'consult a VW dealer' which is why I bought a Haynes manual, to avoid the main dealers.

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This is the part thats causing bother.

[xjay1337]

Take the bumper off and try then.
It will probably just pull off but the clips are a bit brittle so...

Also remove the rear number plate lights to help. Just checked on 9N owners forum.

[eldar]

BlueHave said:

So I bought a Haynes manual and it said 'consult a VW dealer' which is why I bought a Haynes manual, to avoid the main dealers.

Ha. Hayes manuals, as helpful as ever...

[Weirdhead]

Have you removed the battery negative clamp. Haynes

[BlueHave]

xjay1337 said:

Take the bumper off and try then.
It will probably just pull off but the clips are a bit brittle so...

Also remove the rear number plate lights to help. Just checked on 9N owners forum.

Might have to bite the bullet and remove the bumper.

Many thanks PH oracles

[robdcfc]

Screwdriver down one edge to lift the corner, its only part of the trim itself that holds it in.

[Stenasev]

Weirdhead said:

Have you removed the battery negative clamp. Haynes

Don't forget to also chock the wheels.

[Cold]

Wheel chocking, battery disconnecting, main dealer consulting aside, it might respond to being warmed carefully with a hairdryer while you're struggling. Hopefully that may cut down on the risk of it snapping or cracking etc.

[TallPaul]

Does it definitely come off? Its been ages since I've done anything on one of those but its not uncommon for the black "rubbing trim" to be a textured part of the bumper that's masked off when the silver is painted.

[TallPaul]

Actually, I've just found THIS on ebay, its got a picture of the inside and the trim does come off, I remember the tabs can be a little tricky to straighten out when removing the trim with it on the car. It can be done but there is a knack to it!