FixVault

Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Open the rear compartment lid.
  2. Lower the end gate.
  3. Remove the end gate liner. Refer to Rear Compartment Endgate Liner Replacement in Body Rear End.
  4. Fig 1: View of End Gate Access Panel
    GM955715Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Remove the end gate access panel. Refer to Rear Compartment Endgate Access Panel Replacement in Body Rear End.
  6. Set the end gate cover access aside.
  7. Fig 2: View of High Mounted Stop Lamp Electrical Connector
    GM1250572Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Disconnect the wiring connector from the stop lamp.
  9. Fig 3: Heating Stop Lamp Mounting Area
    GM1250570Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  10. Heat the stop lamp mounting area using theJ 25070  . Hold the J 25070  approximately 152 mm (6 in) from the surface. Apply heat using a circular motion for about 30 seconds.
  11. Depress the clips on the center high mounted stop lamp.
  12. NOTE: To avoid damaging the paint finish, do not use pointed or sharp instruments to remove the stop lamp from the endgate.
  13. While depressing the clips, use a plastic flat-bladed tool to pry the lamp from the end gate pocket.
  14. Carefully pull the lamp out of the end gate and remove from the vehicle.
  15. Remove all adhesive from the end gate pocket and stop lamp using a 3M ScotchBrite molding adhesive remover disc, 3M P/N 07501, or equivalent.
  16. NOTE: Use of harsh chemicals when cleaning can damage exterior lamps. Suggested cleaners are a mild soap and water or Varnish Makers and Painters (VMP) naptha. VMP naptha is a specific type of naptha and should not be substituted by any other naptha.
  17. Remove all traces of adhesive residue from the end gate and stop lamp using Varnish Makers and Painters (VMP) naptha and allow to air dry.