Hi, I need some help with fixing this issue.. you know how the rear bumper wraps around to join the rear side panel, well it come to a point just at the wheel arch. For some reason my bumper fender (or whatever the name is) is standing proud of the body work. I tried to push it back but it is quite springy so just returns so it sticks out. It only sticks out about 3/4" but its enough to snag my clothes if I walk or brush past the rear of the car which is annoying. It does not seem to clip or snap back.. and I don't want to glue it.. Any advice..?

Edited 22 September, 201312 yr by Stephen00

This is usually a sign that the car has been nudged or bumped slightly from behind. 

 

The impact may not have been enough to notice (i.e. dents or scratches) but it may have bent or stretched one of the mounting/support brackets that is now resulting on the misalignment you describe.

 

The only proper fix is to remove the rear bumper to check for damage and adjust / repair where neccessary.

Edited 22 September, 201312 yr by silver1011

Assuming it's the same as the hatchback, the bumper at that sharp point at the wheel arch is secured by a self tapping screw - from the inside, through the bodywork into the plastic of the bumper. It's hard to see under the dirt but a little work with a mirror and a torch and you can tighten it up. If the plastic of the bumper is chewed up the I suggest a dab of epoxy to reinstate before rescrewing.

From what you describe I have a similar problem with my hatch I believe it had a slight bump from behind at some point in its life. Have you any pictures?

Thanks guys. Very informative. I will try and get a closer look under the dust and see what I can do. If I cannot rectify is this something a body shop could handle?

Proper body shop should be able to fix it if your not able to.