I noticed recently that the rear bumper on the '89 wagon looked like it was coming loose on the left side.

When I got under the car to investigate I was shocked by what I found. The bumper material was deteriorated to the point that there was literally no connection on that side.

When I realized there is no fastener at the corner (where the plastic cover wraps around) as on the earlier models, pulled the bumper back and the three fasteners on the right side mount broke free of the bumper. Well, it was already ruined, so what the hell. It was the easiest way to remove it.

I think the metal clips that hold the plastic wrap around in place served to stabilize the bumper somewhat but it was only a matter of time before the right mount side was going to fail.

At the very least this would have been embarrassing. At worst, it could have caused an accident.

For the time being I am going to install the rear bumper from a '79 if it fits, which I think it will. I have not yet tried.

I will be calling my used parts guy tomorrow to see if he has a more suitable replacement.

And I will be inspecting this connection on a regular bassis from now on.


You can see what's left of the aluminum under the head of the fastener




Here's the bumper itself. The right side is similarly damaged






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'80 DL 2 door, '89 DL Wagon