Service Procedure

The following procedure provides instructions for replacing the brackets that attach the liftgate struts to the rear body opening.

Caution:
When a liftgate hold-open device is being removed or installed, provide alternate support to avoid the possibility of damage to the vehicle or personal injury.

1. Open the liftgate and support as necessary.

Important:
The spring clip should not be completely removed from the strut in the next step.





2. Slightly rotate the left support on the ball stud (2) located on the body bracket.

3. Using a small flat-bladed screwdriver, lift the spring clip partially outward and remove the support strut end from the ball stud on the bracket.

4. Remove the two 10 mm hex head bolts (1) that attach the bracket to the body and remove the bracket.

5. Position the new bracket to the body and install the two bolts.

Tighten

Tighten the two bolts to 9 Nm (80 lb in).

6. Return the spring clip to its original seated position on the support strut end.

Important:
There should be adequate lubricant remaining in the opening of the support strut and therefore, additional lubricant should not be required.

7. Align and press the support strut end onto the ball stud on the new bracket until fully seated.

8. Repeat the procedure on the opposite side bracket.

9. Close, open and close the liftgate to confirm proper operation.