Liftgate Removal/Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Mazda CX-5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

Removing the stay damper, liftgate hinge securing bolt, or liftgate without supporting the liftgate may cause the liftgate to fall off and injure you. When removing the stay damper, liftgate hinge, or liftgate, always use two persons to perform the work.

Disconnect the negative battery cable. (See NEGATIVE BATTERY CABLE DISCONNECTION/CONNECTION .)
Remove the liftgate upper trim. (See LIFTGATE UPPER TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Disconnect the connectors shown in the figure.

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Wiring Harness Connector, High-Mount Brake Light Connector, Antenna Feeder No. 3 Connector And Liftgate
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect rear washer hose D.
Remove bolt A. (with SIRIUS satellite radio system)
Remove clip A. (with SIRIUS satellite radio system)
Partially peel the liftgate grommet in the direction of arrow (1) shown in the figure, and remove the liftgate grommet from the liftgate grommet inner.

Fig 2: Peeling Liftgate Grommet
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Using a tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver, press the liftgate grommet inner tabs B in the directions of arrows (2) and (3) shown in the figure and remove the liftgate grommet inner from the liftgate in the direction of arrow (4).

Fig 3: Removing Liftgate Grommet Inner From Liftgate
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove rear washer hose D and the wiring harness from the liftgate and set them aside.
Using a tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver, remove the stay damper securing band in the direction of arrows (5) shown in the figure.

Fig 4: Removing Stay Damper Securing Band
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove bolt B.
Remove the stay damper.
Remove the stud ball.
Remove bolts C.
Remove the liftgate.
Install in the reverse order of removal.
Adjust the liftgate. (See LIFTGATE ADJUSTMENT .)