Liftgate Side Trim Removal/Installation: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Mazda 3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the liftgate upper trim. (See LIFTGATE UPPER TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Move the hooks in the direction of the arrows shown in the figure to disengage them from the strap hangers.

Fig 1: Moving Hooks
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Pull the point A of the strap hanger as shown in the figure.

Fig 2: Pulling Point A Of Strap Hanger
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the strap hanger.
Remove the fastener.

Fig 3: Detaching Tab From Liftgate Lower Trim
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Hold the shaded area shown in the figure, open the liftgate side trim in the direction of the arrow, and detach the tab from the liftgate lower trim.
Pull up the shaded area shown in the figure, verify the clip position, and insert the remover tool.

Fig 4: Inserting Remover Tool
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Move the remover tool in the direction of the arrow shown in the figure and detach the clip from the liftgate.
CAUTION:
- Remove the clip using the remover tool. If the liftgate side trim is raised excessively, it may damage the tab and hook.
Move the liftgate side trim in the direction of the arrow shown in the figure and disengage the hook from the liftgate lower trim.

Fig 5: Disengaging Hook From Liftgate Lower Trim
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Move the liftgate side trim in the direction of the arrow shown in the figure with the hook detached in Step 9, and detach the tab from the liftgate lower trim.

Fig 6: Moving Liftgate Side Trim
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the liftgate side trim.