Rear bumper cover removal

[Revvingchevy]

Has anyone removed their rear bumper cover? I could not find a diy video online for this. I think it is a couple of Torx bolts when you lift the hatch, then a few rusty bolts holding it on from the bottom, and possibly a couple of bolts or snaps behind the rear of the wheel arch liner. I don't know how to get the plastic bolts off the wheel arch liner without breaking them. Might have go buy replacements. Im interested in getting the cover off so I can take a look at the rust situation and possibly do some repairs and antirust paint/treatment back there.

 

[Revvingchevy]

Ok, I watched a video for a later Gen Equinox and I figured out those plastic clips. You pull the knob outward then pull the whole thing out with needle nose pliers. Also there's a 7mm bolt going up to the fender. I think i got this now.

 

[sdhow]

Harbor Freight makes a special tool for removal of these clips. Or you can use a trim removal tool.

 

[Revvingchevy]

Thank you, I already got the clips out on one side with my needle nose pliers. The rusty bolts under the bumper I expect to have some issues with. I'll soak those in pbblaster.

 

[sdhow]

Needle nose pliers probably mangled those plastic clips.

 

[thetexasbandit]

Would certainly suggest replacing the push in clips. Been working on my late wifes' 2006 LT,
replaced the window motors and door handles. Panel clips kept breaking, so tight ast me
went to O O Oreilly and stocked up.

 

[Revvingchevy]

Needle nose pliers probably mangled those plastic clips.

I was gentle and just used them to pop the inner part loose, then they pulled out easily. I watched a YouTube video by A1Auto to figure out how to remove them without destroying them.