Strut Replacement - Liftgate

Strut Replacement - Liftgate

Removal Procedure


Caution: When a lift window hold open device is being removed or installed, provide alternate support to avoid the possibility of damage to the vehicle or personal injury.


Notice: Apply pressure only at the end of the liftgate/hood assist rod that you are removing or attaching. Do NOT apply pressure to the middle of the rod because damage or bending will result.

1. Open and support the liftgate.




2. Remove the strut retaining clips from each end of the strut. Use a small flat bladed tool to lift up on the retaining clip in order to release the strut from the strut ball.




3. If equipped with a rear window defogger, remove the following components:

1. The body side rear garnish molding from the headliner
Refer toTrim Replacement - Fourth Pillar Left (Trim Replacement - Fourth Pillar Left) in Interior Trim.
2. The body side rear garnish molding and speaker as one
Refer toTrim Replacement - Third Pillar Left (Trim Replacement - Third Pillar Left) in Interior Trim.
3. The rear window defogger electrical connector from the harness
4. The grommet and electrical connector from the body, by pulling the components out

4. Remove the strut.



Installation Procedure

1. Install the strut with the following steps:

1. Install the strut to each end of the strut balls.
2. Pull back on the ends of strut to ensure a firm lock.





2. If equipped with a rear defogger, install the following components:

1. The rear window defogger electrical connector to the harness
2. The grommet, fully to the body, in order to ensure that water can not enter
3. The body-side rear garnish molding and speaker as one unit
Refer to Trim Replacement - Third Pillar Left (Trim Replacement - Third Pillar Left) in Interior Trim.
4. The body-side rear garnish molding to the headliner
Refer to Trim Replacement - Fourth Pillar Left (Trim Replacement - Fourth Pillar Left) in Interior Trim.

3. Inspect the rear defogger operations.
4. Remove the prop and close the liftgate.
5. Inspect the rear defogger in order to verify that the component is operating correctly.