Lincoln Aviator: Interior Trim and Ornamentation / Removal and Installation - D-Pillar Trim Panel

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

Removal

NOTE: LH shown, RH similar.

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

1. If equipped.
   Remove the luggage compartment package cover.
   

1. Remove the luggage compartment floor covering.
   

1. Remove the luggage compartment spare tire cover.
   

1. Position the liftgate opening 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. Disconnect the keyless entry rear antenna electrical connector.
      

1. NOTE: LH shown, RH similar.

   On both sides.
   Release the clips and remove the luggage compartment side trim panel.
   Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover

1. Remove the third row seatbelt retractor anchor bolt and position 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 side clip.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover
   2. Release the D-pillar trim panel front clips.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover

1. NOTICE: The D-pillar trim panel must be positioned downward to allow the upper clip 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 clip to the slot in the sheet metal.
   

1. Release the D-pillar trim panel front clip.
   Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover

1. NOTICE: The D-pillar trim panel must be positioned downward to allow the upper clip 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 clip to the slot 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).