Trim Removal/Installation - Tailgate Area

Special Tools Required 

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014 *

* Available through the American Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

1. Remove the tailgate upper trim panel (A).
   1. Detach the hooks (B) and tabs (C) from the left tailgate side trim (D) and right tailgate side trim (E).
   2. Pull the tailgate upper trim panel back by hand to detach the clips, then remove it.
      Fig 1: Identifying Hooks, Tabs, Left Tailgate Side Trim And Right Tailgate Side Trim

      Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
2. Remove the left tailgate side trim (A) arid the right tailgate side trim (B).
   1. Pull out the top of the side trim to detach the clips.
   2. Detach the tabs (C) and hooks(D) from the tailgate lower trim panel (E).
      Fig 2: Identifying Left Tailgate Side Trim, Right Tailgate Side Trim, Tabs And Hooks

      Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Remove the tailgate pull pocket (A).
   1. Pry the hooks (B) with a trim tool.
   2. Carefully pull the edge of the tailgate lower trim panel (C) just beside the tailgate pull pocket by hand, and push out the inside hooks (D).
   3. Pull down the upper edge of the pocket and release the lower tabs (E).
   4. With power tailgate: Disconnect the power tailgate close switch connector (F).
      Fig 3: Identifying Tailgate Pull Pocket, Hooks, Tailgate Lower Trim Panel And Lower Tabs

      Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
4. Remove the tailgate lights (see TAILGATE LIGHT TEST/REPLACEMENT ).
5. Remove the tailgate lower trim panel (A).
   1. Detach the clips (B) beside the tailgate latch.
   2. Pull down the panel to detach all of the clips (C).
      Fig 4: Identifying Tailgate Lower Trim Panel And Clips

      Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
6. Install the trim and panel in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
   • Make sure the power tailgate close switch connector is plugged in properly.
   • If the clips are damaged or stress-whitened, replace them with new ones.
   • Push the clips, hooks, and tubs into place securely.