6 Easy Steps to Remove the Rear Hatch Door from a 2006 Honda CR-V

6 Easy Steps to Remove the Rear Hatch Door from a 2006 Honda CR-V
Are you struggling to remove the rear hatch door from your 2006 Honda CRV? This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and expert tips to help you complete this task effortlessly. With clear instructions and detailed descriptions, you’ll be guided through the entire removal process, from disconnecting the electrical components to unbolting the hinges.

Before embarking on this project, ensure that you gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a set of metric wrenches, a Phillips-head screwdriver, a trim removal tool, and a safety blanket or towels to protect your vehicle from scratches. Once you have everything you need, it’s time to dive into the removal process. Firstly, open your rear hatch and locate the two bolts at the bottom of the door, near the hinges.

Using a metric wrench, carefully loosen these bolts but do not remove them completely. Next, identify the upper bolts on the inside of the hatch door, located near the ceiling. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, unscrew these bolts and set them aside. With the bolts removed, you can gently lift the rear hatch door upward and off the hinges. Be cautious as the door is heavy, and it’s recommended to have someone assist you during this step. Finally, disconnect the electrical connectors and wiring harness from the rear hatch door to completely free it from the vehicle.

Safety Precautions

1. Engage the parking brake and set the transmission to Park or neutral to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

Disconnect the battery

To avoid any accidental electrical shock, it is essential to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before beginning work on the rear hatch door.

Wear appropriate safety gear

Depending on the specific repair or maintenance being performed, it is always advisable to wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing to reduce the risk of injury.

Chock the wheels

Ensure the wheels opposite the side you are working on are correctly chocked to prevent the vehicle from moving while the rear hatch door is removed.

Check for overhead obstructions

Before removing the rear hatch door, check for any overhead obstructions in the work area to avoid potential damage to the door or surrounding components.

Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials

To remove the rear hatch door from your 2006 Honda CR-V, you will need the following tools and materials:

Tools:

  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Socket wrench
  • Wrenches (various sizes)
  • 10mm socket

Materials:

  • New rear hatch door (if replacing)
  • Electrical tape
  • Masking tape
  • Body panel adhesive (optional)

Additional Tools and Materials for Step 2:

  • Trim removal tool or plastic pry tool
  • Towel or blanket to protect the hatch door
  • Assistant (optional)
Item Quantity
Flathead screwdriver 1
Phillips head screwdriver 1
Socket wrench 1
Wrenches (various sizes) As needed
10mm socket 1
New rear hatch door (if replacing) 1
Electrical tape 1 roll
Masking tape 1 roll
Body panel adhesive (optional) 1 tube
Trim removal tool or plastic pry tool 1
Towel or blanket 1

Identifying the Hatch Door Components

Before you begin the removal process, it’s essential to identify the components of the rear hatch door on your 2006 Honda CR-V. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts:

1. Hatch Door

The hatch door is the largest component of the assembly and the main point of entry to the rear cargo area of the vehicle. It’s made of sheet metal and features a large window that provides rearward visibility.

2. Latch Assembly

The latch assembly is located on the inside edge of the hatch door and engages with the striker plate on the vehicle’s body to keep the door closed. It consists of a handle, a latch mechanism, and a striker plate.

3. Lift Supports

The lift supports, also known as “gas struts” or “shock absorbers,” are located on either side of the hatch door and provide assistance when opening and closing the door. They contain pressurized gas that exerts a force to raise and lower the door smoothly and effortlessly.

Component Description
Hatch Door Large sheet metal door providing access to the rear cargo area.
Latch Assembly Mechanism that connects the hatch door to the vehicle’s body, keeping it closed securely.
Lift Supports Gas-pressurized struts that assist in smooth opening and closing of the hatch door.

Disconnecting Electrical Connections

4. Disconnect the electrical connections to the rear hatch door. The electrical connections are located on the inside of the hatch door, near the top. There are three electrical connectors that need to be disconnected:

  1. The connector for the rear window defroster
  2. The connector for the license plate light
  3. The connector for the rear door lock

To disconnect the connectors, simply squeeze the tabs on the sides of the connectors and pull them apart. Be careful not to damage the connectors or the wires.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for disconnecting the electrical connections:

Step Description
1 Locate the three electrical connectors on the inside of the hatch door, near the top.
2 For each connector, squeeze the tabs on the sides of the connector and pull it apart.
3 Be careful not to damage the connectors or the wires.

Removing the Hatch Door Hinge Bolts

The next step is to remove the bolts that hold the hatch door to the body of the vehicle. These bolts are located on the hinge brackets at the sides of the door.

Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts enough so that they can be removed by hand.

If the bolts are difficult to remove, you may need to use a penetrating lubricant to help loosen them. To do this, spray the lubricant onto the bolts and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove them.

Take care not to overtighten the bolts when you reinstall them. Overtightening can damage the hinge brackets or the threads on the bolts.

To remove the rear hatch door from a 2006 Honda CR-V, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Open the rear hatch door.
2. Locate the two bolts that hold the hatch door to the body of the vehicle. These bolts are located on the hinge brackets at the sides of the door.
3. Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts enough so that they can be removed by hand.
4. If the bolts are difficult to remove, you may need to use a penetrating lubricant to help loosen them.
5. Remove the bolts and lift the hatch door off the body of the vehicle.

Bolts needed Location
2 bolts Hatch Hinge Brackets

Lifting and Supporting the Hatch Door

Prioritize safety by engaging the parking brake and shifting the transmission into the park position. Locate the two side struts (gas springs) that assist in lifting and holding the hatch door open. These struts are typically located on either side of the hatch, near the hinges. Carefully pry the spring retainer off the door hinge using a flat-head screwdriver or a trim removal tool. Do this on both sides.

Firmly grip the hatch door handle and slowly lift it upward. The door will initially feel heavy due to the gas struts. As you continue lifting, the struts will extend, assisting you in raising the door fully open. Once the door is fully open, secure it in the raised position using a support rod or a broom handle. This will prevent the door from accidentally closing while you work on it.

Component Location
Side Struts (Gas Springs) Near the hinges, on either side of the hatch
Spring Retainer Attached to the door hinge, holding the strut in place

Removing the Struts and Springs

1. Safety First

Before you begin, ensure your Honda CR-V is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent electrical accidents.

2. Open the Rear Hatch

Lift the rear hatch and secure it with a prop rod or bungee cord.

3. Remove the Upper Strut Mounts

Locate the three bolts securing the upper strut mount to the vehicle’s body. Use a socket wrench to remove these bolts.

4. Support the Strut

Place a jack stand or sturdy piece of wood under the strut to support it as you remove the lower mounts.

5. Remove the Lower Strut Mounts

Locate the two bolts securing the lower strut mount to the knuckle. Use a socket wrench to remove these bolts.

6. Disconnect the Spring

Carefully compress the spring using spring compressors. Once the spring is compressed, remove the retaining clips and disconnect the spring from the strut.

7. Disassemble the Strut

  1. Remove the strut mount from the upper end of the strut.
  2. Separate the suspension strut assembly from the coil spring.
  3. Remove the lower spacer that fits between the coil spring and the strut.
  4. Unbolt and remove the mounting bracket that holds the brake line to the strut.
  5. Inspect all components for damage. If any components are damaged, they should be replaced before reinstalling the struts.

    Detaching the Glass from the Door

    Before proceeding, it’s crucial to ensure your safety by wearing gloves to protect your hands from potential cuts or abrasions during the process.

    Step 1: Locate the bolts securing the glass to the frame. Typically, there are four bolts evenly spaced around the inner edges of the frame. Using an appropriate wrench or socket set, carefully loosen and remove these bolts.

    Step 2: Once all four bolts are removed, gently lift the glass straight up and out of the frame. It may be slightly heavy, so proceed with caution and ensure a firm grip.

    Step 3: Disconnect any electrical wires or connectors attached to the glass, such as those for the defroster or rear window wiper. These connections can be found near the base of the glass.

    Step 4: Carefully inspect the rubber gasket around the glass’s perimeter to ensure it remains intact and properly attached. If necessary, replace the gasket to maintain a watertight seal after reassembly.

    Step 5: Set the glass aside in a secure location to prevent damage while working on the hatch door.

    Additional Tips:

    • It’s recommended to have an assistant help with lifting and handling the glass to minimize the risk of dropping or damaging it.
    • If you encounter any rusted or seized bolts, use penetrating oil or lubricant to help loosen them before attempting to remove them.
    • Check the condition of the bolts and nuts before reusing them. Replace any damaged or worn fasteners to ensure a secure fit.

    Removing the Door from the Vehicle

    9. Disconnect the wiring harness from the door. The wiring harness is located at the top of the door, near the center. To disconnect it, simply squeeze the release tab and pull the harness apart.

    a) Locate the wiring harness connector on the rear hatch door. It is usually located near the top of the door, on the driver’s side.

    b) Press the release tab on the connector and pull it apart. The wiring harness will now be disconnected from the door.

    c) Carefully disconnect any other wires or hoses that may be connected to the door.

    d) Grip the door firmly on both sides and lift it straight up to remove it from the vehicle.

    Reinstalling the Rear Hatch Door

    Follow these steps to reinstall the rear hatch door:

    1. Align the hatch door with the hinges on the vehicle.
    2. Lift the door slightly and guide the hinge pins into the mounting holes on the hinges.
    3. Push down on the door to fully engage the hinge pins.
    4. Install the top bolts and tighten them to 22 Nm (16 ft-lbs).
    5. Install the bottom bolts and tighten them to 30 Nm (22 ft-lbs).
    6. Connect the electrical connector for the rear hatch release.
    7. Check that the door is opening and closing smoothly.
    8. If nécessaire, adjust the striker plate on the body to ensure proper alignment.
    9. Install the tailgate trim panel and secure it with the screws.
    10. Ensure the rear hatch operates smoothly by performing the following checks:

    Check Procedure
    Door alignment Open and close the door several times to check for any misalignment or binding.
    Door latch engagement Open and close the door to ensure it latches securely and releases easily.
    Electrical operation Use the remote key fob or interior button to open and close the hatch to verify proper electrical function.
    Weatherstripping seal Check the weatherstripping around the hatch door to ensure it is properly sealing to prevent water leaks.

    How To Remove Rear Hatch Door From 2006 Honda Crv

    To remove the rear hatch door from a 2006 Honda CRV, you will need the following tools:

    • 10mm socket wrench
    • Phillips screwdriver
    • Flathead screwdriver

    Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps:

    1. Open the rear hatch door and locate the two 10mm bolts on the top of the door.
    2. Remove the two bolts.
    3. Locate the two Phillips screws on the bottom of the door.
    4. Remove the two screws.
    5. Locate the two flathead screws on the sides of the door.
    6. Remove the two screws.
    7. Carefully lift the rear hatch door off of the vehicle.

    People Also Ask

    How do I remove the rear hatch door panel on a 2006 Honda CRV?

    To remove the rear hatch door panel on a 2006 Honda CRV, you will need the following tools:

    • Phillips screwdriver
    • Flathead screwdriver

    Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps:

    1. Open the rear hatch door and locate the two Phillips screws on the bottom of the door panel.
    2. Remove the two screws.
    3. Locate the two flathead screws on the sides of the door panel.
    4. Remove the two screws.
    5. Carefully pry the door panel away from the door.

    How do I replace the rear hatch door lock actuator on a 2006 Honda CRV?

    To replace the rear hatch door lock actuator on a 2006 Honda CRV, you will need the following tools:

    • 10mm socket wrench
    • Phillips screwdriver
    • Flathead screwdriver
    • New rear hatch door lock actuator

    Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps:

    1. Open the rear hatch door and locate the two 10mm bolts on the top of the door.
    2. Remove the two bolts.
    3. Locate the two Phillips screws on the bottom of the door.
    4. Remove the two screws.
    5. Locate the two flathead screws on the sides of the door.
    6. Remove the two screws.
    7. Carefully lift the rear hatch door off of the vehicle.
    8. Locate the rear hatch door lock actuator on the inside of the door.
    9. Unplug the electrical connector from the lock actuator.
    10. Remove the two screws that hold the lock actuator in place.
    11. Remove the old lock actuator and install the new one.
    12. Tighten the two screws that hold the lock actuator in place.
    13. Plug the electrical connector into the lock actuator.
    14. Reinstall the rear hatch door onto the vehicle.
    15. Tighten the two 10mm bolts on the top of the door.
    16. Tighten the two Phillips screws on the bottom of the door.
    17. Tighten the two flathead screws on the sides of the door.