Ford Explorer: Interior Trim and Ornamentation / Removal and Installation - D-Pillar Trim Panel

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

Removal

NOTE: LH (left hand) shown, RH (right hand) similar.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the luggage compartment floor cover.
   

1. Remove the luggage compartment storage bin.
   

1. Position the liftgate weatherstrip aside.
   

1. 
   Remove the liftgate scuff plate trim panel.
   
   1. Release the liftgate scuff plate trim panel clips.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover
   2. If equipped.
      Disconnect the keyless entry rear antenna electrical connector.
      

1. NOTE: Third row seats removed for clarity.

   NOTE: Pin-type retainers are located in the rear bin floor of the loadspace armrest trim panel.

   Release the clips and pin-type retainers and remove the loadspace armrest trim panel.
   Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover

1. Remove the third row seatbelt retractor anchor bolt and position the seatbelt aside.
   Torque: 35 lb.ft (47 Nm)

1. Position the liftgate opening weatherstrip aside.
   

1. 
   Release the D-pillar trim panel clips.
   
   1. Release the D-pillar trim panel outer lower clip.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover
   2. Release the D-pillar trim panel outer upper pin-type clip.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover
   3. Release the D-pillar trim panel front lower clips.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover

1. NOTICE: The D-pillar trim panel must be positioned downward to allow the upper clips to release correctly. Failure to follow this direction may cause damage to the D-pillar trim panel.

   Slide the D-pillar trim panel down, aligning the upper clips to the slots in the sheet metal.
   

1. 
   Remove the D-pillar trim panel.
   
   1. Pull outward on the D-pillar trim panel.
      
   2. If equipped.
      Disconnect the D-pillar speaker electrical connector.
      
   3. Feed the third row seatbelt retractor through the opening in the D-pillar trim panel.
      

Installation

NOTE: During installation, make sure the seatbelt webbing is not twisted and the seatbelts and buckles are accessible to the occupants.

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
   

1. Check the seatbelt system for correct operation.
   Refer to: Seatbelt Systems (501-20A Seatbelt Systems, Diagnosis and Testing).