Tips for Removing Rear Fascia to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 2017 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen

Updated 09/20/2017 | Published 09/19/2017

Question:

hou to remove bumper

asked by: Frank

Expert Reply:

The following information explains how to remove the various items that have to be removed on a 2017 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen in order to install trailer hitch # 24949:

1. Remove tail lights: Open tailgate and remove panels (each side) to gain access to tail light wiring. Disconnect wiring to tail lights (push red connector to disconnect). Remove plastic retaining
screw (use pliers if needed) (1) each side. Stand off to the side of the vehicle, holding on to tail light push rearward to remove. Both sides. Secure in safe location.

2. Remove appearance panel: Loosen (2) plastic bolts (M10 socket) attached to spare tire well. Remove (4) screws (T20) holding appearance panel in place. Remove and save for reinstallation.

3. Remove bolts from wheel well and fascia: Remove (4) plastic screws (T15) from rear under side of fascia and plastic retaining blocks (pop out with flat screw driver). Remove (4) screws (T20)
(each side) from wheel well, (3) facing the rear and (1) located at top between rear and side panels.

4. Remove rear fascia: Gently pull up from the rear wheel well panel each side, unclipping the tabs inside. Work up to taillights and continue to gently remove along plastic tail light support.
Using a small screwdriver or trim tool push down on cleats between the fascia and tail lights as needed. Continue to remove along inside bottom to the trunk, lifting fascia up from bottom as
needed. Carefully pulling the fascia away from the vehicle. Use care at lower part of wheel well there are (2) fixed pins, carefully work fascia over pins. If present disconnect any wiring harness or sensor from fascia. Both sides. Note: Use trim tool or screwdriver near corner – tight fit.

5. Remove bumper: Remove bumper (7) bolts (M13 socket and socket extension), lift up as needed to remove bumper. Remove and save for reinstallation.

There are additional steps to install the hitch which you can see in the instructions linked below.