Rear License Trim Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Honda Fit, 2012 Honda Fit, 2011 Honda Fit, 2010 Honda Fit, and 2009 Honda Fit. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Put on gloves to protect your hands.
Take care not to scratch the body.

Remove these items:
- Tailgate lower trim panel (see TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - TAILGATE AREA )
- Rear window wiper arm (see WIPER ARM REPLACEMENT )
From inside the tailgate, remove the bolt securing the rear license trim.

Fig 1: Rear License Trim Bolt With Torque Specification
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Close the tailgate.
Apply protective tape (A) to the tailgate beside both side edges of the rear license trim (B) as shown below.

Fig 2: Applying Protective Tape To Tailgate Beside Both Side Edges Of Rear License Trim
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
First insert the appropriate trim tool in the outside edge of the rear license trim (A), and pry the clip to detach the pin (B) of the clip from the grommet (C). Repeat an opposite side, and pull out the trim to detach the remaining three clips, then remove the trim.

Fig 3: Prying Clip To Detaching Pin Of Clip
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the grommets from the tailgate with snap ring pliers.
If the grommets or the pins are damaged or stress-whitened, replace them. Always replace both the pin and the grommet if either is damaged.
Install the grommets on the pins by pushing them into place.
Install the trim in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
- If the clips are damaged or stress-whitened, replace them with new ones.
- Make sure the lip of the rear window rubber dam (D) is not pinched or rolled by the license plate trim. If needed, use a flat plastic spacer between the rubber dam and the trim during installation.
- Push the clips into place securely.