How to Remove and Replace the Rear Bumper on a 2010–2013 Chevy Camaro

If you're looking to replace a damaged rear bumper or simply refresh the look of your Chevrolet Camaro, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to remove and install the rear bumper cover on a 2010–2013 Chevy Camaro. Whether you're tackling a collision repair, upgrading to aftermarket body parts, or swapping in a freshly painted bumper, we’ve got you covered with clear instructions, helpful tips, and the tools you’ll need to get it done right.

Tools Needed:

• Flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool

• Torx bit set (T15 or T20)

• 7mm socket

• 10mm socket and ratchet

• Rivet gun (if replacing the bumper bracket)

• Drill (to remove factory rivets, if applicable)

• Magnetic socket (recommended for taillight nuts)

• Heat gun or hair dryer (for removing adhesive trim pieces)

• Zip-lock bags or containers (for organizing hardware)
  
  

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Step by Step Instructions:

1. Begin by opening the trunk to access the bumper cover from the top. This will expose the fasteners along the upper edge of the bumper cover near the trunk opening.

2. Locate and remove the six plastic clips positioned near the trunk opening—three on each side. Use a flathead screwdriver or a trim removal tool to pry them up carefully. Next, remove the small triangular trim piece on each side of the trunk opening, which covers the edge of the bumper cover. These typically pop off with gentle pressure. Keep all clips and trim pieces stored safely for reinstallation. Tip: Use a small container or a zip-lock bag to label and store your hardware.

3. Turn the front wheels outward to give yourself better access to the rear wheel wells. This will make it easier to reach the screws securing the inner edges of the bumper cover.

4. Using a Torx bit (usually T15 or T20), remove the three screws inside each rear wheel well. These screws secure the bumper to the inner fender liner and must be removed on both sides. Tip: Keep these screws separate from the top clips to avoid confusion later.

5. Gently pull the corner of the bumper outward to release it from the clips behind the rear wheels. Apply steady, even pressure to avoid cracking the bumper or snapping any mounting tabs.

6. Carefully release the two clips located near each taillight by pulling the bumper outward and upward, and then unclip the additional fasteners near the trunk latch along the center upper edge of the bumper. These clips help secure the bumper to the body at the upper sides and top center area. Work from one side to the other, gently loosening each clip to keep the bumper from flexing unevenly.

7. Disconnect the wiring harnesses connected to the bumper components, including reverse lights, side marker lights, and parking sensors if equipped. Use caution when unplugging connectors to avoid breaking any tabs. Tip: If connectors are tight, use a small pick tool to gently lift the locking tab while pulling the connector apart.

8. Remove the bulbs from the light housings before fully separating the bumper from the vehicle. Twist and pull each bulb socket from the reverse lights and side markers to detach them. This prevents damage to the bulbs and gives you a cleaner disassembly.

9. Remove the bezels from the bumper by pressing the tabs on the inside and gently pushing them outward. These bezels typically surround the reverse lights or trim openings and can be released with light pressure. Tip: Use a trim tool or flathead screwdriver carefully to assist with stubborn clips.

10. Remove the reverse lights from the bumper by taking out the three 7mm bolts on each side and sliding the lights out. Make sure to remove them all and store the bolts and lights safely until they are transferred to the new bumper.

11. Remove the side marker lenses from the bumper by pushing the retaining clip and sliding each lens out through the front. This is typically done with firm, controlled pressure. Tip: If the clip is tight, use a small flathead screwdriver to help release it.

12. Using a 10mm socket, remove the three nuts securing each tail light and carefully pull the tail light housings straight out. Once removed, place them on a soft surface to avoid scratching the lenses or damaging the wiring.

13. Remove the four gold-colored fasteners securing the metal impact bar cover or reinforcement shield. These fasteners are located along the middle rear section, behind where the bumper sits. Use the appropriate socket or wrench to remove each one. Tip: Keep these in a separate container as they differ from the plastic trim clips and light hardware.

14. If your vehicle has a lower valance or ground effects trim piece attached to the bumper, remove it by unfastening the clips or gently peeling away the double-sided tape. Tip: You can use automotive-grade double-sided tape (such as 3M) when reinstalling the valance later for a secure bond. Then, separate the lower valance from the bumper cover by working along the seam where it is attached. Tip: A heat gun or hair dryer can help soften the adhesive and make removal easier without damaging the plastic.

15. Separate the parking sensors from their plastic mounting brackets by gently prying the clips loose. Use a small flathead screwdriver if needed. Tip: If your old bumper is cracked or damaged, inspect the sensor wires closely to ensure they weren’t pulled or torn loose during removal. This prepares the sensors for transfer to the new bumper.

16. Install the parking sensors into the new bumper by snapping each one into its original bracket position. Make sure they are fully seated and aligned properly to function correctly.

17. Reinstall the reverse lights, side markers, taillights, parking sensors, and lower valance (if applicable) onto the new bumper cover. Make sure all components are installed in the correct positions and securely clipped or bolted into place. Tip: If any lights or sensors are missing or damaged, source replacements before reinstallation to avoid incomplete functionality.

18. Reconnect the wiring harnesses to the reverse lights, side markers, and parking sensors. Make sure each connector is fully seated and clicks into place. Tip: Double-check wire routing to ensure nothing gets pinched during bumper installation.

19. Connect the lower valance to the upper bumper using double-sided tape and the built-in alignment tabs. Press it firmly along the seam to ensure a secure fit. Some models may also have clips to help hold it in place.

20. Install the license plate light and any related trim pieces into the new bumper cover before mounting it to the car. These components snap into place from behind the bumper and should be fully seated before installation.

21. Install the new rear bumper retainer (bracket) using a rivet gun. Align it with the mounting holes on the vehicle and secure it by installing the rivets. This should be done before installing the bumper, as the bracket helps support the bumper during final fitment.

22. Reinstall the three Torx screws in each rear wheel well to secure the lower corners of the bumper. Use the same Torx bit and be careful not to overtighten the screws.

23. Reinsert the upper plastic clips into the bumper cover along the trunk edge. These help secure the top portion of the bumper. Tip: The original long plastic trim piece that snaps over these clips may be missing—it’s meant to cover and finish this area for a cleaner look.

24. Lift and install the bumper cover onto the rear of the vehicle. Use the taillight cutouts, tabs, and alignment guides to position it properly. Begin by aligning the center top section under the trunk edge, then press inward until the clips snap into place. Continue guiding and pressing the bumper along both sides until it sits flush. Tip: It helps to have an extra set of hands to support and stabilize the bumper during this step.

25. Reconnect the taillight wiring harnesses by plugging each connector into the back of the taillight housing. Press firmly until the connectors click into place, ensuring a secure fit. This step must be completed before reinstalling the taillight housings. Tip: Gently tug on the connector after seating it to confirm it's locked in.

26. Press along the sides of the bumper to fully seat the clips into place. Work from the rear corners forward, applying firm pressure where the bumper meets the body panel. You should hear or feel the clips snap in as they engage. Tip: Check both sides for consistent panel gaps to ensure a factory-fit finish.

27. Reinstall the small triangular trim piece on each side of the trunk opening. Once both are snapped in, tighten the three 10mm nuts on each taillight to secure them.

28. Do a final walkaround of your Camaro. Press along the bumper edges to ensure everything is clipped in securely. Test all lighting functions—taillights, reverse lights, and side markers—as well as your parking sensors if equipped. Check for even panel gaps and make sure the trunk opens and closes without obstruction.

Check out the installation video below:

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