Decklid Spring - Removal

REMOVAL

Special Tools:










1. Open the decklid.
2. Remove the the spare tire cover/trunk floor carpet and disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Pull the RH rear seat back (1) forward, exposing the luggage compartment. Repeat for the opposite side.
4. Behind the RH rear seat, pull the carpet tab (5) up, exposing the rear seat back side bolster bracket retaining bolt (4). Repeat for the opposite side.
5. Remove the RH rear seat back side bolster bracket bolt (4). Repeat for the opposite side.
6. Remove the push-in fasteners (3) that secure the trunk side trim. Repeat for the opposite side.





7. Using a trim stick (2) or equivalent, push down between the rear shelf and the RH rear seat back bolster (1) to release the retaining clip, and pull out on the seat back bolster (1) to remove.Repeat for the opposite side.






NOTE: RH shown, LH typical.

8. Remove the cargo net hook screw (1) and upper cargo hook (2).
9. Remove the push-in retainer (3) that secures the wheel well cover trim.
10. Remove the cargo net lower hooks (5).
11. Carefully pull back the wheel well cover enough to disconnect the trunk lamp (4) harness connector, and remove the wheel well cover trim.
12. Remove the wheel well cover trim from the trunk/cargo area.





13. Using a china marker or equivalent, mark the forward and rearward decklid spring attachment locations on the spring (1) and it's respective brackets.
14. Support the decklid with a suitable prop or block to prevent it from closing.
15. Remove the gas prop, Gas Prop - Removal.
16. Using electrical tape, apply four to six wraps of tape near the rear of the decklid spring (1).

NOTE: Prior to tape application, make sure there is enough clearance to insert tool.

17. Using vise grips, clamp the vise grips (2) on the tape wrapped area of the spring (1).

CAUTION: Apply enough pressure to ensure a firm grip. Do not over-tighten as damage to the spring may occur.

18. Using the vise grips (2), pull rearward and inward towards the center of the vehicle to disengage the spring (1) from the rear bracket.
19. Remove the spring (1) from the front bracket.
20. If necessary, repeat for the opposite side.