Gas-Filled Strut, Removing And Installing: Removing

-- Support the rear lid or secure it from falling.

--A4 Sedan:  remove the right luggage compartment side trim panel. Refer to LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT SIDE TRIM PANEL, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

-- Using a small screwdriver, lift the locking spring -1- slightly and remove the gas-filled strut -2- from the upper ball pin.

Fig 1: Lifting Locking Spring Using Small Screwdriver

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.