The outside handles have adjustable outside handle-to-lock rods. This allows for adjustment of the amount of travel needed in order to operate the outside handle.

When servicing a vehicle with adjustable outside handle-to-lock rods, remove all free play between the outside handle and the lock. Also, do not operate the outside handle before these connections are made.

1. Remove the rear door trim panel. Refer to Rear Side Door Trim Panel Replacement .
2. Remove the rear door water deflector. Refer to Rear Side Door Water Deflector Replacement .
3. Remove the rear inner energy absorber pad. Refer to Rear Side Door Inner Panel Lower Energy Absorber Replacement .



4. Use side cutters in order to cut off the outside handle rod-to-lock clip from the lock.
5. Unscrew the remainder of the clip from the outside handle rod.
6. Discard the clip.
7. Remove the door handle bolt access plug, located by the door lock.



8. Remove the rear door outside door handle bolts (3).
9. Remove the rear door outside door handle (2) from the handle rod (1).

1. Position the rear door outside door handle (2) and handle rod (1) to the rear door.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

2. Install the rear door outside door handle bolts (3).

Tighten
Tighten the rear door outside door handle bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).




3. Install a new outside handle rod-to-lock clip onto the door lock lever.
4. Position the outside door handle rod in the clip in order to eliminate any free play in the outside door handle.
5. Install the clip cover closed over the threaded outside door handle rod.
6. Install the door handle bolt access plug.
7. Install the rear inner energy absorber pad. Refer to Rear Side Door Inner Panel Lower Energy Absorber Replacement .
8. Install the rear door water deflector. Refer to Rear Side Door Water Deflector Replacement .
9. Install the rear door trim panel. Refer to Rear Side Door Trim Panel Replacement .