Tailgate replacement, alignment and support struts — removal and instalation

Tailgate replacement

Note: The tailgate is heavy and somewhat awkward to hold — at least two people should perform this procedure.

1. Raise and support the tailgate.

2. Remove the trim panels to gain access to the hinge bolts.

3. Disconnect the electrical connections and the rear wiper washer hose.

4. With the aid of an assistant remove the strut shocks.

5. Now, remove the hinge bolts.

Caution: The tailgate is surprisingly heavy so be prepared as you remove the last bolt.

6. Installation is the reverse of removal. Align the tailgate after installing.

Tailgate alignment

7. Remove the striker trim cap from the rear trim panel.

8. Loosen the striker plate and tailgate hinges just far enough to allow the tailgate to be shifted.

9. Gently close the tailgate and check the body lines.

10. Shift the tailgate using a plastic wedge or flat bladed trim tool to gently persuade the door into alignment.

11. Open the tailgate and tighten the striker and tailgate hinge bolts.

12. Close and recheck the alignment.

13. Adjust the door stops (rubber adjusters) so that the door rests on the stops but is not putting any pressure on the door when it is latched properly.

14. Recheck alignment and if necessary, readjust the tailgate.

Tailgate trim

15. All the tailgate trim is held in place with pressure clips except for the hand grab pocket. One screw holds it in place. To remove any of the trim, grasp the edges firmly and pull outward away from the door.

16. Installation is the reverse of removal.

Strut replacement

17. Using a small pocket screwdriver, gently pry the retaining clip off of the strut socket.

18. Pull the strut from the ball socket while supporting the tailgate.

Note: Some replacement struts will come with the ball socket already installed onto the strut. On these, unscrew the ball socket from the body and the door to replace the strut. Tighten to 16 ft-lbs.

19. Install the replacement struts and snap the retaining clip into place.

20. Check that the door closes and opens correctly.