Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the license plate.
Remove the license lamp. Refer to LICENSE LAMP REPLACEMENT (AZTEK) or LICENSE LAMP REPLACEMENT (RENDEZVOUS) .
Use a heat gun J 25070.

Fig 1: Heating Molding
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Use a plastic, flat-bladed tool to remove the upper edge of the rear body panel molding from the surface.

Fig 2: Removing Upper Edge Of Rear Body Panel Molding
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Pull the upper edge of the rear body panel molding out, to release the retainers.
Remove the rear body panel molding from the endgate.

Fig 3: Removing Rear Body Panel Molding
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove all adhesive from the endgate using 3M™: Scotch Brite molding adhesive remover disk 3M™ (P/N 07501 or equivalent).
Clean the endgate surface using Varnish Makers and Painters (VMP) naphtha and allow to air dry.

Fig 4: Removing Adhesive From Endgate Using
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.