Passenger Assist Handle: Service and Repair

Assist Handle Replacement - Rear

Removal Procedure





1. Insert a flat-bladed tool at the handle end of the short end cover. Spread the cover end and pull down to disengage the cover.
2. Slide the short cover onto the handle to expose the retaining screw.




3. For the lamp end cover :

* Slide a flat-bladed tool between the lamp lens and the cover, near the handle end. Press out and down and remove the lens.
* Using your fingers, spread the cover apart and pull down
* Slide the lamp cover down the handle to expose the retaining screw





4. Remove the screws under both end covers.
5. Remove the plastic housings that the screws secured.
6. Remove the handle from the headliner.




7. Lower the headliner as required to access the backplate. Refer to Headliner Replacement (Service and Repair) .
8. Disconnect the headliner harness electrical connector (1) from the lamp/switch assembly.
9. Remove the backplate (3) from the headliner.

Important: On early production vehicles the lamp switch was glued onto the backplate. In this case the assembly cannot be removed from the backplate.


10. Remove the lamp /switch assembly from the backplate.



Installation Procedure





1. Install the lamp/switch assembly (2) to the backplate.
2. Position the backplate (3) on the headliner.
3. Install the headliner harness connector (1) to the lamp/switch assembly (2).
4. Install the headliner. Refer to Headliner Replacement (Service and Repair) .




5. Install the plastic screw housings and loosely install the screws in the handle.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

6. Install the assist handle screws.

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





7. Slide the end covers into position and press up to install both end covers.
8. Install the lamp lens cover.