Trunk / Liftgate: Service and Repair

LIFTGATE

REMOVAL
1. Remove the D-pillar trim panels and rear coat hooks.
2. Position the headliner to access the rear washer hose and the liftgate electrical harness connectors.







3. Remove the parts in the order indicated in the illustration and table.

Item 3: Liftgate Strut Removal Note







1. CAUTION: Support the liftgate before removing the liftgate struts.

Remove the liftgate struts.

Item 4: Liftgate Bolt and Washer Removal Note
1. With a wax pencil, mark the position of each hinge to aid in the installation of the liftgate.

Item 5: Liftgate Removal Note

1. CAUTION: To avoid damaging the liftgate, this step requires an assistant.

Remove the liftgate.

INSTALLATION
1. To install, reverse the removal procedure. Transfer components as necessary.

Item 5: Liftgate Installation Note

NOTE: The following four steps describe liftgate left and right adjustment.







1. NOTE: Remove carpet for access to bolts.

Remove the liftgate striker.







2. Loosen, but do not remove, the hinge-to-liftgate bolts just enough to permit movement of the liftgate.
3. Adjust the liftgate so that the gaps are equal.
4. Tighten the hinge-to-liftgate bolts.

NOTE: The following ten steps describe liftgate in and out, up and down adjustments.







5. Remove the upper interior trim panel.







6. Loosen, but do not remove, the hinge-to-body fasteners just enough to permit movement of the liftgate.
7. Adjust the liftgate so that the gaps are equal.
8. Tighten the hinge-to-liftgate fasteners.
9. Install the liftgate striker, adjust as necessary.







10. Install the liftgate door scuff plate.







11. Install the upper interior trim panel.







12. Loosen, but do not remove, the wedge cup bolts just enough to permit movement of the wedge cups.
13. Close and reopen the liftgate.
14. Tighten the wedge cup bolts.

Item 4: Liftgate Bolt and Washer Installation Note

1. CAUTION: Hinge fasteners are a self-tapping design. To minimize the possibility of cross threading, hand start all fasteners during installation.

With the aid of an assistant install the bolts and align hinges to previously made alignment marks and tighten.