Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Important: The rear door outside handle lock rods allow adjustment of the free play between the rear door outside handle and the rear door lock.

All free play between the rear door outside handle and the rear door lock must be removed when servicing the rear door outside handle. Do not operate the rear door outside handle before these connections are made.

Remove the rear door inner trim panel. Refer to Trim Panel Replacement - Side Rear Door .
Remove the rear door water deflector. Refer to Water Deflector Replacement - Rear Door

Fig 1: Door Handle Rod-To-Lock Clip (Rear)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Use side cutters in order to cut off the rear door outside handle rod-to-lock clip from the rear door outside handle rod.
Discard the rod-to-lock clip.