Liftgate Lower Alignment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

If the striker does not engage with the latch properly, remove the quarter trim lower (Refer to INTERIOR TRIM . Replace the striker mounting screws with temporary bolts, and use the special tool (remover bar MB990939) and a hammer to tap the bolt head in the desired direction to adjust the striker position.

Fig 1: Tapping Striker Bolt Head Using Special Tool (Remover Bar MB990939) And Hammer

Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.

If the clearances between the liftgate lower and the body (rear bumper assembly) at left and right are uneven, adjust the liftgate lower as follows.

Remove the rear bumper covers and reflectors located at left and right sides of the rear bumper assembly.

Fig 2: Rear Bumper Cover, Rear Bumper Assembly With Mounting Bolt Torque Specification
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
Loosen the liftgate hinge mounting bolts as shown in the illustration located at left and right sides of the body, and slide the liftgate lower to adjust its position so that the clearances between the liftgate lower and body (rear bumper assembly) at left and right become even.
Tighten the liftgate hinge mounting bolts to the specified torque.

Fig 3: Adjusting Liftgate Hinge With Mounting Bolt Torque Specification
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.