A: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the high-mounted stop light. < Refer to REMOVAL , High-mounted Stop Light. >
Remove the clips, and remove the rear gate upper trim.

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Gate Upper Trim Clips
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Using a plastic clip remover, disengage the trim tabs and remove the rear gate pillar trim.

Fig 2: Identifying Claws Of Rear Gate Pillar Trim
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the hand grip and clip of rear gate.
CAUTION: Be careful not to scratch the trim.

Fig 3: Locating Hand Grip And Clip Of Rear Gate
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
1. Open the cover by using a plastic remover, etc.
2. Remove the screws and detach the hand grip.
NOTE: If the screw cover cannot be opened, perform the procedures indicated in the figure.

Fig 4: Detaching Hand Grip
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the clips and rear gate lower trim.

Fig 5: Identifying Rear Gate Lower Trim Clips
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.