Removal Procedure
Caution: When a lift window hold open device is being removed or installed, provide
alternate support to avoid the possibility of damage to the vehicle or personal
injury.
Notice: Apply pressure only at the end of the liftgate/hood
assist rod that you are removing or attaching. Do NOT apply pressure to the middle
of the rod because damage or bending will result.
- Open and support the liftgate.
 
- Remove the strut retaining
clips from each end of the strut. Use a small flat bladed tool to lift up
on the retaining clip in order to release the strut from the strut ball.
 
- If equipped with a rear
window defogger, remove the following components:
 
| 3.1.  | The body side rear garnish molding from the headliner | 
 
Refer to
Fourth Pillar Trim Replacement - Left Side 
 in Interior Trim.
| 3.2.  | The body side rear garnish molding and speaker as one | 
 
Refer to
Third Pillar Trim Replacement - Left Side 
 in Interior Trim.
| 3.3.  | The rear window defogger electrical connector from the harness | 
 
| 3.4.  | The grommet and electrical connector from the body, by pulling
the components out | 
 
- Remove the strut.
 
Installation Procedure
- Install the strut with the following steps:
 
| 1.1.  | Install the strut to each end of the strut balls. | 
 
| 1.2.  | Pull back on the ends of strut to ensure a firm lock. | 
 
- If equipped with a rear
defogger, install the following components:
 
| 2.1.  | The rear window defogger electrical connector to the harness | 
 
| 2.2.  | The grommet, fully to the body, in order to ensure that water
can not enter | 
 
| 2.3.  | The body-side rear garnish molding and speaker as one unit | 
 
Refer to 
Third Pillar Trim Replacement - Left Side 
 in Interior Trim.
| 2.4.  | The body-side rear garnish molding to the headliner | 
 
Refer to 
Fourth Pillar Trim Replacement - Left Side 
 in Interior Trim.
- Inspect the rear defogger operations.
 
- Remove the prop and close the liftgate.
 
- Inspect the rear defogger in order to verify that the component
is operating correctly.