Replacing a Tailgate: Remove Interior Trim Panel & Wiper Motor Access Panel

Series Summary

The automobile—a vehicle that means so much to so many—is a complex system of machines built on the designs and ideas of men and women who are long gone from this world, but whose names live on: Ford, Chevrolet, and Bugatti. And while we’ve enjoyed traveling the backroads of childhood, the streets of adolescence, and the highways of adulthood, the car has remained a reliable means of transportation, as well as an icon that embodies the hopes and dreams of reaching exciting new destinations at top speed, in style, and with speakers blaring. Perhaps we will have flying cars one day; for now, we have the access to reach across the continent, and the freedom to choose which corner to explore first. At some point in your life, your vehicle may be rear-ended. It is a good idea to know how to replace the tailgate of your vehicle. In this free automotive video series, a certified professional will show you how to replace a tailgate. From removing the old tailgate and components to re-installing the wiper motor and trip panel, you'll get the tips you need to get the job done.

Video Transcript

"In this clip, we're going to be replacing a tailgate and I'm going to be picking out the tools and de-trimming the door panel for the new gate to go on. When removing a trim panel, the easiest tool to use is a door trim panel tool. It's always a good idea, when you're taking a vehicle apart, to take all your nuts and bolts as you're disassembling it, and putting them into a container, plastic bag, whatever it may be, so you don't lose any of the parts. When I'm removing the tail gate, I'm using a quarter inch air ratchet with quarter inch sockets. Now, I've removed the access panel and I've gotten into the inner door shell and I'm going to remove all the inner parts. Lock cylinders, handles, window regulators, lock mechanism."