How to Remove the Rear Bumper of a Malibu?
3 Answers
To remove the rear bumper of a Malibu, follow these steps: 1. Remove the fixing screws; 2. Pull the bumper backward and upward as a whole; 3. Remove the rear bumper bolts from the left and right sides. The car bumper is a safety device designed to absorb and mitigate external impacts, protecting the front and rear parts of the vehicle. The Malibu is a mid-size sedan with the following dimensions: length 4855mm, width 1854mm, height 1476mm, wheelbase 2737mm, front track 1585mm, rear track 1587mm, minimum ground clearance 118mm, fuel tank capacity 61 liters, and trunk capacity 544 liters.
I've helped someone remove the rear bumper of a Malibu before. The first step is to prepare the tools, commonly a Phillips screwdriver and a plastic pry bar to avoid scratching the paint. Then, open the trunk lid and locate several clips and small screws along the edge. Use the screwdriver to remove those screws, then gently pry open the clips. There are also screws near the rear wheel arches—you'll need to crouch down to see and remove the screws at the bottom of the bumper near the wheels. Once all the screws are removed, the bumper will loosen, but don't forget that it might be connected to small lights or radar wiring. Gently unplug the connectors to avoid damage. Finally, with two people working together, each holding one side of the bumper, carefully pull it outward, and it will gradually come off. The whole process takes about 20 minutes, but patience is key—if a clip breaks, you'll need to replace it. I recommend beginners follow along with a YouTube tutorial or get a friend to help for safety, rather than relying on memory alone to avoid damaging the car body.
I've removed the rear bumper of a Malibu a few times, and it's best to start with the simple steps: grab a Phillips screwdriver and a plastic pry tool. Then locate all the attachment points on the bumper, such as the small screws at the bottom of the trunk lid and the clips near the rear wheel arches. After unscrewing the screws, gently pry open the clips. The key is not to pull too hard right away, or the clips may break. Next, handle the wiring connections—there are reverse radar or light connectors on the rear bumper, so carefully unplug them for safety. I usually do the whole process alone, but beginners should work with a partner. When pulling the bumper, avoid being too forceful to prevent scratching the paint. After removal, I recommend checking the brackets for rust or damage and applying anti-rust spray if needed. If you're doing this for modifications or repairs, plan your time ahead to avoid unnecessary delays.
