The rear hatch on my '02 doesn't close or open properly because the left hinge bolt is working its way out. I want to drop the roof liner to make sure the nut the bolt threads into doesn't slip. I've got the base trim loose, and a couple of the pillar trim clips out, but the airbag strap fasteners on have me stymied. Anyone know how to remove the trim without destroying them, do I actually have to drop the liner to tighten the hinge bolt, OR HAVE I BEEN WASTING MY TIME trying and should just torque the !$%#!! ? Thanks.

 

#35 (hex bolt with plate 07147139131) is what you're talking about correct? Some good info on how a few people on NAM replaced their hinge here. Looks like they loosened the back part of the headliner in order to get the the hex bolt. Hope this helps!

 

I'm not concerned with taking the back door apart, I need to learn how to yank the airbag trim off the inner pillar on the drivers side without destroying it or setting off the airbag. The strap hinge to secure it during airbag deployment has me stopped. What is the trick to removing the clip?

If it's just a strong tug, is it in-line with the length of the car, or width? If I need a tool, what does it look like?

Thanks.

 

Can you post up an pic ?

You have to be careful around the overhead airbags.