Liftgate Window Glass: Service and Repair

2012 Chevrolet Sonic L4-1.4L TurboSECTION Service and Repair



Liftgate Window Replacement

Special Tools

* BO-24402-A - Glass Sealant Remover (Cold Knife)

* BO-39032 - Stationary Glass Removal Tool

* Use an adhesive that is approved by GM

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools Tools and Equipment

Removal Procedure

Warning:
Refer to Cracked Window Warning Cracked Window Warning.


Note:
Before cutting out a stationary window, apply a double layer of masking tape around the perimeter of the painted surfaces and the interior trim.

1. Open the liftgate.

2. Remove the liftgate trim. Refer to Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Hatchback) Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Hatchback).

3. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the liftgate window defogger bus bar.

4. Remove the rear window wiper arm. Refer to Rear Window Wiper Arm Replacement Rear Window Wiper Arm Replacement.

5. Remove the rear spoiler. Refer to Rear End Spoiler Replacement (Hatchback TTV) Service and Repair.

Warning:
Refer to Defroster Outlet Warning Service Precautions.


6. Cover the following parts to protect from broken glass:

* Upper dash pad

* Defroster outlets and A/C outlets

* Seats and carpeting





Note:
Keep the cutting edge of the appropriate tool against the window. There are window locating pins, one in each upper corner of the window. Use care Not to remove or cut them off when removing the window. If the window locator pins are cut, it will be necessary to tape the window in place.

7. This will allow the auto-adhesive to be separated from the window.

* Leave a base of auto-adhesive on the pinchweld flange.

* The only suitable lubrication is clean water.

* Use BO-24402-A - Glass Sealant Remover (Cold Knife).

* BO-39032 - Stationary Glass Removal Tool, or equivalent in order to remove the window.





Note:
Keep the cutting edge of appropriate tool the against the window. Do this from inside the vehicle.

8. Use the appropraite tool to remove the bottom of the window from the auto-adhesive. Keep the cutting edge of the tool against the window. Do this from inside the vehicle.





9. With an assistant, remove the window (1) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the liftgate window into the opening. Refer to Adhesive Installation of Liftgate Windows Adhesive Installation of Liftgate Windows.

2. Install the rear spoiler. Refer to Rear End Spoiler Replacement (Hatchback TTV) Service and Repair.

3. Install the rear window wiper arm. Refer to Rear Window Wiper Arm Replacement Rear Window Wiper Arm Replacement.

4. Connect the liftgate window defogger electrical connectors to the bus bar.

5. Install the liftgate trim. Refer to Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Hatchback) Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Hatchback).

6. Remove the double layer of masking tape around the perimeter of the painted surfaces and the interior trim.

7. Close the liftgate.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.