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Body - Liftgate Rattles/Hatch Open Indicator On

04-022

March 8, 2008

Applies To:
2003-08 Element - ALL

Hatch Open Indicator On, Rear Interior Light On, or Tailgate Rattles (Supersedes 04-022, dated April 13, 2004, to update the information marked by asterisks)

SYMPTOM

The rear hatch open indicator or rear interior light comes on and/or the tailgate rattles.

PROBABLE CAUSE

Incorrect striker position and/or improperly adjusted cushions.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Check the striker and cushion adjustments.

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

In warranty:
The normal warranty applies.

Operation Number: 823380

Flat Rate Time: 0.2 hour

Failed Part: P/N 74813-SCV-A01
H/C 7286032

Defect Code: 07406

Symptom Code: 03228

Template ID: 04-022A

Skill Level: Repair Technician

Out of warranty:
Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Parts and Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.

REPAIR PROCEDURE





1. With the hatch open, compare the level of the tailgate to the level of the taillights. The tailgate edge should be recessed 1 to 2 mm in relation to the taillight.

^ If the measurement is correct, go to step 3.

^ If the measurement is not correct, go to step 2.





2. Slightly loosen the striker bolts, and adjust the striker in or out to get the proper measurement. Torque the striker bolts to 22 N.m (16 lb-ft).

3. Check the tailgate for drag by holding in the release lever and opening and closing the tailgate.

^ If the tailgate does not drag, go to step 5.

^ If the tailgate drags, go to step 4.

4. The tailgate strikers will drop when loosened. Mark the original position before loosening the striker bolts. Slightly loosen the striker bolts, and adjust the strikers up and down to eliminate any drag. Torque the striker bolts to 22 N.m (16 lb-ft).





5. Check the adjustment of the hatch. The hatch edge should be even with or 1 mm below the fender.

^ If the adjustment is correct, go to step 7.

^ If the adjustment is not correct, go to step 6.





6. If the hatch sits out too far, screw the hatch edge cushions in two full turns. If it sits in too far, screw the hatch edge cushions out two full turns.

7. Check the hatch for latch drag by holding in the release lever and opening and closing the hatch door.

^ If the latch does not drag, the repair is complete.

^ If the latch drags, go to step 8.





8. Slightly loosen the center striker bolts. While holding in the release lever, open and close the hatch to align the striker. Adjust the striker as needed to eliminate any drag. Torque the striker bolts to 22 N.m (16 lb-ft).





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