GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2008 🢒 Vibe - FWD 🢒 Body Repair 🢒 Collision Repair 🢒 Rear End Panel Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1686680 Size: SH
  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .
  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
  3. Remove all related panels and components.
  4. Repair as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications. Refer to Dimensions - Body .
  5. Locate, mark and drill out the factory welds.
  6. Remove the outer rear end panel from the vehicle.

    7. Caution: Refer to Foam Sound Deadeners Caution in the Preface section.

  7. Note the location and remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 1686680 Size: SH
  1. Prepare the mating surfaces as necessary. Inspect for proper fit of the service panel.
  2. On the new panel, drill 8-mm (5/16-in) plug weld holes, as necessary, in the locations noted from the original panel.
  3. Apply 3M® Weld-Thru coating P/N 05916, or equivalent, to all mating surfaces.
  4. Position the service panel, check with 3-dimensional measuring equipment. Refer to Dimensions - Body .
  5. Plug weld accordingly.
  6. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
  7. Apply the sealers and the anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair .
  8. Paint the repair area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems .
  9. Install all related panels and components.
  10. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
  11. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .