Back Window Glass: Service and Repair

Rear Window Replacement


Tools Required
* J 24402-A Glass Sealant (Cold Knife) Remover
* J 39032 Stationary Glass Removal Tool
* Urethane Adhesive Kit GM P/N 12346392 or Equivalent
* Isopropyl Alcohol or Equivalent
* Cartridge-type Caulking Gun
* Commercial-type Utility Knife
* Razor Blade Scraper
* Suction Cups
* Plastic Paddle



Removal Procedure


Caution: If a window is cracked but still intact, crisscross the window with masking tape in order to reduce the risk of damage or personal injury.


Important: Before cutting out a stationary window, apply a double layer of masking tape around the perimeter of the painted surfaces and the interior trim.


1. Open the rear compartment in order to access the lower reveal molding.




2. Remove the four fasteners (1) securing the rear window lower reveal molding (2) to the body.
3. Remove the rear sail panels. Refer to Sail Panel Replacement (Standard) (Sail Panel Replacement (Standard)) in Interior Trim.




4. Disconnect the rear window defogger left electrical connector.




5. Disconnect the rear window defogger right electrical connector.





Important: Removal of the rear window requires the replacement of the rear window reveal molding (1).


6. Remove the rear window reveal molding (1).
7. Disconnect the rear window defogger connectors.
8. Remove the OnStar(R) antenna. Refer to Coupling Replacement - Antenna Inner and Coupling Replacement - Antenna Outer in Cellular Communication.

Caution: If broken glass falls into the defroster outlets, it can be blown into the passenger compartment and cause personal injury.

9. Cover to protect the following parts from broken glass:

1. Upper dash pad.
2. Defroster outlets and A/C outlets.
3. Seats and carpeting.






Caution: When working with any type of glass or sheet metal with exposed or rough edges, wear approved safety glasses and gloves in order to reduce the chance of personal injury.

10. Remove the rear window reveal molding.

1. Grasp the lower corner of the rear window reveal molding by hand and slowly pull the reveal molding away from the rear window.
2. If the rear window reveal molding (1) will not release, use a utility knife in order to cut around the rear window in order to remove the rear window reveal molding.






Important: Keep the cutting edge of the tool against the window.


11. This will allow the urethane adhesive to be separated from the window.

* Leave a base of urethane on the pinchweld flange.
* The only suitable lubrication is clear water.
* Use J 24402-A, J 39032 or equivalent in order to remove the window.





12. With the aid of an assistant, use the suction cups in order to lift the rear window from the opening.



Installation Procedure

1. Install the rear window into the opening. Refer to Urethane Adhesive Installation of Stationary Windows (Urethane Adhesive Installation of Stationary Windows).




2. Connect the rear window defogger left electrical connector.




3. Connect the rear window defogger right electrical connector.
4. Install the OnStar(R) antenna. Refer to Coupling Replacement - Antenna Outer and Coupling Replacement - Antenna Inner in Cellular Communication.
5. Install the rear sail panels. Refer to Sail Panel Replacement (Standard) (Sail Panel Replacement (Standard)) in Interior Trim.




6. Install the rear window lower reveal molding (2).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

7. Install the four rear window lower reveal molding fasteners (1).

Tighten the fasteners to 2 N.m (18 lb in).

8. Remove the double layer of masking tape around the perimeter of the painted surfaces and the interior trim.
9. Close the rear compartment lid.