Removal
REMOVAL
1. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the liftgate trim panel Liftgate Trim Panel - Removal.
3. Disconnect the liftgate wire harness connectors (1) and disengage the connector retainer from the liftgate latch control (3).
4. Disengage the retainer clips that secure the linkage rods (2) to the latch control and disconnect the linkage rods.
5. Remove the two bolts that secure the latch control to the liftgate and remove the control.
6. Remove the four nuts (4 and 5) that secure the outside handle (1) to the liftgate (3).
7. To aid in removal of the outside handle, use a heat gun and apply heat to the wings of the handle to loosen the double sided adhesive tape.
8. Remove the outside handle from the liftgate. Rotate the handle as necessary to gain clearance for the lever pull arm (2).
9. Clean off all traces of adhesive or double sided tape from the liftgate panel with a general purpose adhesive remover.