Rendezvous AWD V6-3.6L VIN 7 (2004)
D.
Starting in the middle of the panel and working toward the outer edge, use the J 38778 (1) to release the three lower retainers (2) on the right
side. Then repeat this step beginning in the middle and working toward the left side.
Notice
Do not allow the interior trim to "hang" for prolonged periods (lunch, breaks, overnight, etc.) after lowering it in the next step. Support the
panel to the liftgate when necessary with strips of masking tape.
E.
Carefully lower the bottom section of the interior trim panel (3) away from the liftgate (1) to access the small clear water deflector in the
next step. It is not necessary to release the retainer 92) located on each side of the liftgate glass or the retainers along the top (above the
glass) of the panel.
6.
Remove the small clear plastic water deflector that covers the opening in the liftgate for latch access.
7.
Remove the three TORX(R) head screws that attach the latch to the liftgate and discard the screws.
8.
Remove the latch from the liftgate and disconnect the electrical connection.
9.
Remove the nine screws that attach the liftgate lower molding to the exterior of the liftgate. The nine screws can be found along the inside bottom
edge of the liftgate.
10.
Carefully release the retainers that attach the upper edge of the liftgate lower molding to the tail lamp/license plate located directly above it.
Remove the molding.
11.
Once the liftgate lower molding has been removed, the section (1) of the liftgate where the reinforcement is to be installed can be seen.
Important
When the outer metal strap (3) is properly positioned in the next step, the curved corner on each end will align with the curved corners (2) on
the liftgate. In addition, two of the three small holes (1) in each side of the strap will be upward.
