Trim Removal/Installation - Tailgate Area

Special Tools Required

KTC Trim Tool Set SOJATP2014*

*Available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program, 888-424-6857

NOTE:

Put on gloves to protect your hands.
Take care not to bend or scratch the trim or the panels.
Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when removing components.

Remove the hatch glass weatherstrip (see HATCH GLASS WEATHERSTRIP REPLACEMENT ).
Remove the tailgate upper trim panel (A).
1. Detach the hooks (B) and the tabs (C) from the left tailgate side trim (D) and right tailgate side trim (E).
2. Pull the tailgate upper trim panel back by hand to detach the clips, then remove it.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Tailgate Upper Trim Panel With Related Components
  Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the left tailgate side trim (A) and the right tailgate side trim (B).
1. Pull out the top of the side trim to detach the clips.
2. With power tailgate: release the rod (C) from the slit (D).
3. Detach the tabs (E) and the hooks (F) from the tailgate lower trim panel (G).
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Left Tailgate Side Trim With Related Components
  Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the tailgate pull pocket (A).
1. Carefully pull the edge of the tailgate lower trim panel (B) just beside the tailgate pull pocket by hand, and push out the inside hooks (C).
2. Pull down the upper edge of the pocket and release the lower tabs (D).
3. With power tailgate: Disconnect the power tailgate close switch connector (E).
  
  Fig 3: Removing Tailgate Pull Pocket
  Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Pry out the cap (A) and remove the bolt, then remove the pull strap (B).

Fig 4: Identifying Cap And Strap Of Tailgate Pull Pocket
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the tailgate lower trim panel (A).
1. Detach the clips (B) beside the tailgate latch.
2. Pull down the panel to detach all of the clips (C).
  
  Fig 5: Identifying Tailgate Lower Trim Panel And Clips
  Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Install the trim and panel in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
- Make sure the power tailgate close switch connector is plugged in properly.
- If the clips are damaged or stress-whitened, replace them with new ones.
- Push the clips, the hooks and the tabs into place securely.