Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the liftgate trim panel. For additional information, refer to INTERIOR TRIM AND ORNAMENTATION .
Disconnect the liftgate ajar switch electrical connector.
Disconnect the liftgate latch actuating rod.
1. Open the clip.
2. Disconnect the actuating rod.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Actuating Rod
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 3 liftgate latch bolts.
- To install, tighten to:
  - 8 Nm (71 lb-in)(vehicles built through 10/2005)
  - 12 Nm (9 lb-ft)(vehicles built after 10/2005)
    
    Fig 2: Identifying Liftgate Latch Bolts
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the liftgate latch.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Lubricate the liftgate latch to striker surfaces with Krytox grease after installation.