I'm in the process of removing all dealer badges, including the two plate frames (front/rear). The front one was replaced rather easily. The rear plate has one screw (the left screw) which refuses to come out. It can be turned clockwise or counterclockwise, it just doesn't unscrew at all. The right screw came out rather easily. I wanted to inspect the other side of trunk, to SEE what the issue was, so I removed most of the Trunk lid trim from the inside of the trunk. I got most of it removed, except for the "handle" which didn't budge and I wasn't about to damage my car just to remove a plate frame. I found a square cut into the metal, I couldn't see into because the handle part of the inner cover was still intact. I felt a plastic piece which this screw is inserted into. But this didn't help me much (it was fun pulling the car apart though, something I rarely do).

Umm, can anyone help me? What can I do to get this screw removed? I'd love to trash the dealer frame. :banana:

Thnx.

This post has been edited by bakshi6: Jul 19 2008, 02:22 PM

If you can grab the head of the screw with Vise Grips or pliers, CAREFULLY grab the head of the screw and turn counterclockwise while pulling out slightly at the same time. Slight pressure while turning the screw should be all you need to allow the screw to back out without damaging the insert that the screw goes into.

when you get the screw out go and buy new inserts. Trust me you will need and want to replace it. My left one went bad so I replaced it. I wished I would have replaced the right at the same time. It is spinning inside now. Any parts store carries these as they are generic.

FYI, to remove the handle and get the trunk trim off, all you have to do is unscrew a single phillips head screw up inside the handle. I learned this the hard way.

Okay, I did that, removed the entire trunk trim (ty LevelThree), and held the plastic insert while I unscrewed the stuck screw, came out easily, but I couldn't find the inserts at "advance auto parts" so I'll have to check around. Would like to replace both the rusty screws and those inserts. :460:

Thnx all.

This post has been edited by bakshi6: Jul 19 2008, 06:21 PM

Same thing happened to me. My dealer parts department gave me two new inserts to use. They had a huge bin of them. Give your dealer a try. Worst case: they charge you a couple bucks. Either way, your problem will be solved.

same thing happened to me, took it into the dealer and they fixed it for free in less than 15 min with no questions asked.

I just yanked mine out with vise grips and put new plugs in. Very easy.