How To Remove Cls450 Front Bumper Cover
Attempting to remove the front bumper cover on a Mercedes-Benz CLS450 can be a daunting task if you are not familiar with the proper procedures. However, with the right tools and instructions, it is a job that can be completed in your own garage. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to successfully remove the front bumper cover on a CLS450.
Step-by-Step Guide
To begin, you will need to gather the necessary tools, including a set of wrenches, a socket set, and a Torx screwdriver. First, open the hood and remove the four bolts that secure the upper grille. Next, remove the underbody panel by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. Once you have removed these components, you will have access to the bumper cover mounting bolts. Using your socket set, remove the lower and side mounting bolts, which are located along the bottom and sides of the bumper cover.
Finally, grab the bumper cover and gently pull it towards you to detach it from the vehicle. With the bumper cover removed, you will have access to the radiator and other engine components, making it easier to perform maintenance or repairs. Once you have completed your work, you can reinstall the bumper cover by following the steps in reverse order.
Removing the Upper Grille
Removing the upper grille requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you:
- Locate the grille release latch levers behind the grille. Typically, there are two levers on each side.
- Squeeze the levers together and pull the grille forward gently to disengage it from the clips.
- Disconnect the electrical connector attached to the grille. Use a small screwdriver or trim removal tool to gently pry the connector apart. Refer to the table below for the location of electrical connectors for different Mercedes-Benz models:
| Model | Electrical Connector Location |
|---|---|
| CLS450 | Behind the Mercedes-Benz emblem |
| E-Class | On the left side of the grille |
| S-Class | On the right side of the grille |
Detaching the Lower Grille
1. Locate the three T20 Torx screws at the top of the lower grille. Remove these screws using a T20 Torx driver.
2. Grip the lower grille from both sides and carefully pull it forward to detach it from the bumper cover. There are four plastic clips that hold the grille in place. You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool to gently pry the clips loose.
3. Once the lower grille is detached, you will see four additional T20 Torx screws. Remove these screws to completely free the lower grille from the bumper cover.
4. Below is a detailed table for removing the lower grille:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate and remove the three T20 Torx screws at the top of the grille. |
| 2 | Grip the grille from both sides and pull it forward to release the four plastic clips. |
| 3 | Once the grille is detached, remove the four additional T20 Torx screws to completely free it. |
Disconnecting the Headlight Wiring
Once you’ve removed the upper grille, you’ll need to disconnect the headlight wiring. This is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to be careful not to damage the wires.
To disconnect the headlight wiring, follow these steps:
1. Locate the headlight wiring harness. It will be connected to the back of the headlight assembly.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the wiring harness to the headlight assembly.
3. Unplug the wiring harness from the headlight assembly.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the other headlight assembly.
Once the headlight wiring is disconnected, you can remove the front bumper cover.
Here are some tips for disconnecting the headlight wiring:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Be careful not to damage the wires. | The wires are delicate and can be easily damaged if you’re not careful. |
| Use a screwdriver to remove the screws. | A screwdriver is the best tool for removing the screws that secure the wiring harness to the headlight assembly. |
| Unplug the wiring harness from the headlight assembly. | Once the screws are removed, you can unplug the wiring harness from the headlight assembly. |
Unbolting the Front Bumper Cover
Once you have removed the screws, it’s time to unbolt the front bumper cover from its mountings. To do this, you will need a socket wrench and a variety of sockets (usually 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm). Here are the steps involved in unbolting the bumper cover:
Step 1: Locate the bolts
There are a total of 6 bolts that hold the bumper cover in place. Two bolts are located on the top of the bumper cover, two are located on each side of the bumper cover, and two are located on the bottom of the bumper cover. The exact location of these bolts will vary depending on the year and model of your vehicle, but they are usually fairly easy to find.
Step 2: Remove the bolts
Once you have located the bolts, you can remove them using a socket wrench and the appropriate sockets. Be careful not to overtighten the bolts when you remove them, as this could damage the bumper cover. Once all of the bolts have been removed, you will be able to lift the bumper cover off of its mountings.
Step 3: Disconnect the electrical connectors
Once the bumper cover has been removed, you will need to disconnect the electrical connectors that are attached to it. These connectors are typically located on the back of the bumper cover and are used to power the headlights, fog lights, and other electrical components. To disconnect the connectors, simply press on the release button and pull them apart.
Below we have a table summarizing the steps involved in unbolting the front bumper cover:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the bolts. |
| 2 | Remove the bolts. |
| 3 | Disconnect the electrical connectors. |
Verifying Successful Removal and Replacement
After removing and replacing the Cls450 front bumper cover, it is essential to verify that the procedure was successful. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Check for Alignment and Fit
Closely examine the alignment of the bumper cover with the surrounding panels. Ensure that there are no gaps or unevenness.
2. Inspect for Damage
Thoroughly inspect the bumper cover and surrounding components for any damage that may have occurred during removal or replacement.
3. Test Functionality
Test the operation of any sensors, cameras, or other components linked to the bumper cover to ensure they are functioning correctly.
4. Road Test
Take a brief road test to check for any unusual noise, vibration, or handling issues.
5. Retain Evidence
Document the successful removal and replacement with photos or a written record. This will provide proof of the work done.
If you encounter any issues during verification, refer back to the removal and replacement instructions or consult a qualified mechanic.
6. Additional Tips for Verifying Successful Removal and Replacement:
| Component | Inspection Point |
| Sensors and Cameras | Output and signals |
| Headlights | Beam alignment |
| Grills | Secure mounting and alignment |
| Fender Liners | Proper installation and sealing |
| Fasteners | Tightness and torque |
How to Remove Cls450 Front Bumper Cover
Removing the front bumper cover on a CLS450 is a relatively simple process that can be completed in under an hour with the right tools. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Remove the 10 bolts that secure the bumper cover to the front of the car. There are four bolts along the top, four bolts along the bottom, and two bolts on each side.
- Gently pull the bumper cover away from the car, starting from the sides and working your way towards the middle.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors for the fog lights, turn signals, and parking sensors.
- Remove the bumper cover completely from the car.
