While I was unscrewing my license plate to swap the holder, the plastic bracket the screw goes into broke off and fell inside the lift gate. The result is the screw sliding around inside the door while I drive, when I open the hatch. etc.

It is incredibly annoying. I managed to secure my license plate/holder with the other 3 brackets, so I don't necessarily need to "fix" the broken screw bracket, but I want desperately to get it out of the hatch.

Does the paneling come off easily? Or is there some way to get it out I haven't thought of? It's making me crazy and I imagine taking it to a body shop would be expensive - but maybe not?

Help, anyone.

 

Panel pulls off but be careful of plastic connectors.

https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/2nd-...l-removal.html

 

I removed the hatch panel to do the JDM rear wiper mod. It was a little scary taking it off because my car was only a week old, and it was my first mod. You really have to pull hard to get the clips to come off. Stick a panel popper or something in between it and the hatch and pry until you can get a few fingers in there, get a grip and pull. Don't be too worried about breaking clips. I broke three but they are actually separate from the hatch and can be purchased at your honda dealer for cheap. They grey clips are around $.13 but the orange and green ones are a little over a dollar. I recommend doing the wiper mod if you want, since the hatch cover is off anyway, and it's free. Here's the url for the thread. https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/2nd-...wiper-mod.html

 

I could kiss you both. That was easier than I thought it would be and I didn't break any connectors. THANK YOU. Seriously. I was able to get the screw/washer out and no more annoying rattle. I love this forum.

Reps to you both.

 

No problem man, glad we could help.