Lift gate interior trim removal 2004

[mynameismonty]

I've got a god awful rattle coming from inside the liftgate on my 2004... I storngly suspect that something is loose inside the lfitgate and want to check it out but can't figure out how to get the interior trim off to see what's up... IIRC theres a special tool involved or something? Seem to remember one cannot replace the thrid brake light bulb because of needing to remove this trim?

am I nutz?

 

[Steelcity]

Well the tool you are talking about is a fork like tool to sort of pry out the fasteners ,you can always try the screwdriver method but will probably break more of the fasteners which by the way are cheap enough to buy at any auto parts store .Look at this link below this is an example of trim tools in fact your auto parts store sells these also probably as a kit.Good luck. Your center brake light is in another trim piece area.
http://www.harborfreight.com/automo...ece-auto-trim-and-molding-tool-set-67021.html

 

[Steelcity]

Hopefully your rattle is not the lift gate handle mechanism or the wiper assembly . What I noticed in my 03 is that organizer in the back it rattles a lot on bad bumps I might take it out some day but it does hide some tools that would otherwise be in view. If that is rattling in your case there is big hand screws that can be tightened down to help stop the noise it sort of tightens that organizer down to the floor ,you'll see its self explanatory.

 

[ianmcdca]

There are 2 torx screws that hold the handle onto the liftgate that must be removed. The tool Steelcity suggested may help....I have one, but I actually just pulled the panel off....just call me Clark Kent.
Now, I have had a rattle, and I have a second one. The first rattle was unfortunately a rear window that lost it`s seal. The one I have now is more elusive. GM has issued a TSB regarding this. Not sure if it applies to your year, but something to check out. Here`s the TSB:

File In Section: 08 - Body and Accessories

Bulletin No.: 03-08-59-002

Date: April, 2003

TECHNICAL

Subject:
Rattle in Liftgate Area While Driving
(Install Insulator)

Models:
2001-2003 Chevrolet Venture
2001-2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette
2001-2003 Pontiac Montana

Condition

Some customers may comment on a rattle noise coming from the liftgate area of the vehicle while driving.

Cause

The rear radio speakers mounted in the rear lingate may have a loose fit. This may cause a rattle noise while driving the vehicle.




Anyways, there is a second TSB as well, but with slightly different symptoms that you describe:




File In Section: 08 - Body and Accessories

Bulletin No.: 02-08-59-003

Date: October, 2002

TECHNICAL

Subject:
General Squeak and Rattle Guide

Models:
2002-2003 Chevrolet Venture
2002-2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette
2002-2003 Pontiac Montana

Condition 1

Loud clunking noise at the rear of the vehicle.

Cause




There may be loose or cross threaded rear shock bolts. Refer to the illustration above.

Correction

Clean/tighten or replace the bolt.

Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 85 N.m (63 lb ft).

Condition 2

Loud clunking noise.

Cause




The exhaust may not be connected to an exhaust hanger. Refer to the illustration above.

Correction

Reinstall the hanger.

Condition 3

Loud "Clunking" noise at the rear of the vehicle.

Cause

The rear coil spring may be contacting the body.

Correction




Assure that there is no contact to the body. Reposition the spring if there is contact to the body. Refer to the illustration above.



I do have a couple of pictures if you want to make repairs yourself.


Ian