Liftgate Window Glass: Service and Repair

TAILGATE GLASS

Tailgate Glass:

REMOVAL
1. To remove the tailgate glass, first remove the following parts:
1. Rear window defogger wire connector.






2. Tailgate trims.
3. Rear wiper and wiper motor.

2. Remove the tailgate glass in the same manner as the windshield glass.

INSTALLATION
1. Using a cutter knife or the special tool (09861-31200), scrape the old sealant smoothly to a thickness of about 2 mm (0.08 in.) on the bonding surface around the entire tailgate glass.

CAUTION: Be careful not to remove more adhesive than necessary, and also not to damage the paintwork on the body surface with the knife. If the paintwork is damaged, repair the damaged area with touch-up-paint.






2. Clean the body bonding surface with a sponge dampened in alcohol or wax and grease remover.
3. Center a new tailgate glass in the opening. Mark the location by marking lines across the glass and body with a grease pencil at the four points as shown.






4. Install the tailgate glass molding without any gaps.
5. Apply a light coat of glass primer around the tailgate glass.

NOTE:
1. Never touch the surface applied primer with your hands.
If you do, the adhesive may not bond to the glass properly, causing a leak after the tailgate glass has been installed.
2. Do not apply body primer to the glass.
3. Keep water, dust, and abrasive materials away from the surface applied primer.






6. Apply a sealant around the edge of the glass.






NOTE: Apply the adhesive within 5 minutes after applying the primer to the glass.

7. Apply a light coat of body primer to the original sealant remaining around the window opening flange. The glass should be installed within 5 minutes after you apply the primer.
8. Use suction cups or the special tool (09861-31400), lower the glass over the opening, align it with the marks made in step 3 and set it down on the sealant.






9. Scrape or wipe excess adhesive off with putty knife or gauze. Fill all cavities around the tailgate glass.
10. Perform a water-leak test for the tailgate glass. Use a cold water spray, being careful not to direct a powerful stream of water on the new adhesive material. Allow water to spill over the edges of the glass.






11. If there are leaks, dry the affected area, then apply sealant.
12. Install the removed parts.

CAUTION:
1. Keep the tailgate glass dry for the first hour after installation.
2. Let the car stand for at least four hours after tailgate glass installation. If the car has to be used with in the first 8 hours, it must be driven slowly.
3. Take care not to slam the doors with all the windows rolled up.
4. Take care not to twist the vehicle excessively (such as when going in and out of driveways at an angle or driving over rough, uneven roads).