Helllllo from a long time ago member


Someone backed into the rear bumper of my 2002 X308 XJ8. The witness said they heard a decent crunching sound when it happened (in a parking lot)
I cannot see any visible damage, BUT, the bumper is loose in that it can slide forward and backward a further distance now.

How do I remove the rear bumper,
and

How do I check the mounting mechanisms for damage??

Thank you in advance,
Waterdragon

 

Sorry to hear about the accident.

US spec vehicles have energy absorbing bumper struts (item 1). If the bumper cover itself (item 9) isn't damaged but moves, the strut could have been broken by the impact.


(click on the image to enlarge it)

Here's the relevant JTIS section on rear bumper removal.

JTIS - X308 Rear Bumper.pdf

Graham

 

I'd look closely at the corners by the wheel arch. Seems like all jags that get bumped in the back start to rust in these areas.

 

Removing the bumper is not difficult, ( providing nothing is seized up ) if you look up from underneath just inboard of the tail pipes there are 2 holes, inside these are a 17mm ( I think, maybe 18 or 19 ) bolt .


Undo these two and the bumper pulls off rearward. Disconnect the side marker lights first.

 

Problem solved. A witness heard the crunch and quickly took a photo as the hit and run driver sped away. The photo clearly showed the plate number. After a not so friendly phone call from the police the driver gave me her insurance information. They will be fixing this at the body shop of my choosing.

She was driving a volvo....