Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the rear lamp assemblies. For additional information, refer to EXTERIOR LIGHTING -- FUSION, MILAN & MKZ article.
Remove the 6 pin-type retainers (3 each side) from the rear splash shield.
Remove the 2 pin-type retainers from the lower rear bumper cover.

Fig 1: Locating Pin-Type Retainers From Lower Rear Bumper Cover
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the 2 bolts and 2 pin-type retainers from the top of the rear bumper cover.
1. Remove the 2 bolts (1 shown in the illustration).
2. Remove the 2 pin-type retainers (1 shown in the illustration).
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Rear Bumper Cover, Bolts And Pin-Type Retainers
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the 2 upper bumper cover screws (1 each side).
If equipped, disconnect the license plate lamp electrical connector.

NOTE: The forward upper portion of the bumper cover must be pulled outward to unclip it from the bumper cover mounting bracket.

Reposition the bumper cover.
- Pull outward on both sides of the bumper cover.
If equipped, disconnect the parking aid system electrical connector.
Route the wiring harness out of the body.
Remove the rear bumper cover.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.