Removal and Installation

Passenger side 

NOTE: Use a non-marring flat-blade tool and start on the inside edge of the covers. Covers are equipped with a tether. Failure to follow this direction may result in damage to the component.
Fig 1: Locating Assist Handle Bolt Covers
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
1. Remove the assist handle bolt covers.
2. Remove the assist handle bolts.
   • To install, tighten to 8 Nm (71 lb-in).
3. If equipped with a speaker in the A-pillar trim panel, remove the instrument panel side finish panel and disconnect the speaker electrical connector.
4. Remove the A-pillar trim panel.
   • Pull outward to release the retainer clip.

   Driver side 

5. If equipped with a speaker in the A-pillar trim panel, remove the instrument panel side finish panel and disconnect the speaker electrical connector.
NOTE: During installation, the A-pillar trim panel locator pins must be inserted into the slots on the instrument panel. Failure to follow this instruction may result in damage to the component.
NOTE: The trim panel has a 2-stage high-retention clip.
Fig 2: Removing A-Pillar Trim Panel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 3: Pulling Upward In Middle Of Trim Panel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 4: Identifying High-Retension Clip Of Mounting Bracket
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
6. Remove the A-pillar trim panel.
   • Pull outward to disengage the first stage of the high-retension clip.
   NOTE: This step will temporarily distort the A-pillar trim panel. There will be a "pop" noise when the pin is released from the sheet metal.
   • Pull outward in the middle of the trim panel to disengage the 4-way locator pin from the sheet metal.
   • Pull upward then inboard to disengage the high-retension clip from the mounting bracket.

   All vehicles 

NOTE: The A-pillar trim panel is equipped with 3 locator tabs and a 4-way locator pin that must be positioned correctly during reinstallation.
7. To install, reverse the removal procedure.