Removal and Installation

Remove the liftgate trim panel. See INTERIOR TRIM .
Disconnect the liftgate ajar switch electrical connector.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Liftgate Latch Actuating Rod
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the liftgate latch actuating rod.
1. Open the clip.
2. Disconnect the actuating rod.
  
  Fig 2: Removing Liftgate Latch Bolts
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove and discard the 3 liftgate latch bolts.
- To install, tighten to:
  - 8 N-m (0.8 kgf-m, 71 in-lbf) (vehicles built through 10/2005).
  - 12 Nm (1.2 kgf-m, 9 ft-lbf) (vehicles built after 10/2005)
Remove the liftgate latch.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Lubricate the liftgate latch to striker surfaces with grease after installation.